Simple, flavorful, and quick this Chili Lime Grilled Tofu recipe is truly no-fuss. With only a handful of ingredients needed this grilled tofu recipe comes together in under 15 minutes. It’s a perfect low-effort meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.
This recipe has a decent kick of spice and for those who love some heat, it’s perfect. It’s spicy yet balanced, so not quite melt your mouth off hot but not mild either. If you’re less tolerant to spice I definitely recommend pairing this recipe with some non-dairy yogurt or using less chilis to tone down heat.
To make this Chili Lime Grilled Tofu you'll need:
- Pressed firm tofu – Firm or extra firm is best and ensures your tofu won’t stick and fall apart when grilling.
- Red chilis – I’ve used two Bird’s Eye chili peppers and one serrano chili for this recipe, but any variety of fresh chili should work. The flavor may change slightly depending on which type you use, so pick one you like and it should turn out deliciously!
- Garlic – Fresh garlic is best, but you can use dried garlic in a pinch.
- Fresh lime – This recipe calls for lime zest and lime juice.
- Brown sugar
- Salt
Notes:
How do you grill tofu?
Grilling tofu sounds like a nightmare it’s just a recipe for sticking and crumbly tofu, right? Wrong! All you need is to set yourself up for success and then it’s really not a problem. Using firm or extra firm tofu is the first must. Anything softer than firm tofu will for sure stick! Next, make sure to press your tofu adequately. If you choose the right tofu and press it well you should have no problem making grilled tofu.
If you’re still concerned an extra step you can take is to oil your grill with a high-heat cooking oil right before placing your tofu on the grill. I also recommend using a good quality spatula and not hesitating when going to remove the tofu from the grill. If you go too slow or don’t commit then your tofu may split or not come off of the grill completely.
Should you press tofu?
That depends on what you’re cooking, but to make grilled tofu I definitely recommend pressing it (and doing so well!) before cooking. Pressing the tofu removes excess liquid and makes it less prone to sticking while cooking.
Not a fan of tofu?
Although I can’t relate I get it, so if you still want to try this recipe (and you should because the chili lime rub is amazing!) sub tofu for Portobello mushrooms instead. You still get the flavor and general idea sans tofu.
Chili Lime Grilled Tofu
Ingredients
- 1 block firm tofu pressed
- 3-4 red chilis
- 2 cloves garlic
- zest of 1 lime
- juice of 1 lime
- ⅛ c brown sugar packed
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- In a food processor or with a mortar and pestle combine the chili, garlic, lime zest and juice, brown sugar, and salt until the chilis and garlic are minced and a thin paste is formed.
- Cut the pressed tofu into 4 slabs then generously coat the tofu with the chili paste.
- Place the tofu on a hot grill or cast iron griddle and cook until the tofu releases easily, about 5 min. Flip the tofu and cook again another 3-5 minutes.
- Once cooked remove from the grill, serve over rice or with grilled veggies, and enjoy!