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    "home" » Recipes » Meatless

    Grilled Balsamic Tofu Steaks

    Modified: May 13, 2025 · Published: Jul 19, 2021 bySophie Viau

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    Looking for a flavor-packed, easy tofu recipe that will change the way you think about plant-based grilling? Meet these Grilled Balsamic Tofu Steaks — a simple, hearty, and totally satisfying main dish that even tofu skeptics will love!

    Marinated balsamic tofu in a plate with asparagus and salad

    Whether you're firing up the BBQ for a casual summer dinner or just craving something smoky and savory, this marinated tofu is sure to be a new favorite.

    If you love easy grilled recipes, you should definitely check out my Grilled Tahini Chicken and my delicious Grilled Veggie foil packets next!

    Jump to:
    • The ingredients
    • Step-by-step preparation for this Grilled Balsamic Tofu Steak
    • Tips for Success
    • Variations to Try
    • What to Serve With Balsamic Tofu Steaks
    • Storage
    • Frequently Asked Questions
    • Easy Grilled Balsamic Tofu Steak

    The ingredients

    all the ingredients you need to make this recipe
    • Tofu: Extra firm tofu holds its shape best on the grill. Don’t skip pressing — it’s key for texture!
    • Balsamic Vinegar: Rice vinegar works in a pinch but balsamic brings the perfect tangy-sweet depth.
    • Maple Syrup: A little sweetness helps caramelize the tofu beautifully on the grill.
    • Shallots and Garlic: Fresh is best, but garlic powder works if you’re in a hurry.
    • Olive Oil: Helps the marinade cling and prevents sticking.

    See the recipe card for quantities

    Step-by-step preparation for this Grilled Balsamic Tofu Steak

    1. Press and Slice the Tofu

    Start by pressing the tofu to remove as much water as possible. You can use a tofu press if you have one, or simply wrap the tofu in paper towels and place a heavy pan on top for 15-20 minutes.

    Once pressed, slice the tofu into about ½ inch thick slices.

    2. Make the Marinade

    In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, chopped shallots, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.

    An old pencil drawing of Don Quixote and Sancho Panza sitting on their horses, by Wilhelm Marstrand.

    3. Marinate the Tofu

    Place the tofu slices in a large bowl or shallow baking dish. Pour the marinade over the tofu, ensuring all the pieces are evenly coated.

    Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to let the tofu soak up all that incredible flavor.

    4. Grill the Tofu

    Preheat your BBQ grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.

    Remove the tofu from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Place the tofu slices on the grill.

    Cook for 7 to 10 minutes per side, until the tofu is nicely charred and heated through.

    5. Serve and Enjoy

    Serve the grilled balsamic tofu steaks hot, garnished with extra chopped herbs if you like!

    An old pencil drawing of Don Quixote and Sancho Panza sitting on their horses, by Wilhelm Marstrand.

    Tips for Success

    • Press the Tofu Well: Removing as much water as possible ensures the tofu soaks up all the marinade flavor.
    • Marinate Longer if You Can: An overnight marinade takes this tofu from good to amazing.
    • Don’t Move It Too Early: Let the tofu sit on the grill without flipping too soon — it needs time to char and release naturally.

    Variations to Try

    • Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade.
    • Asian-Inspired: Swap balsamic vinegar for soy sauce and maple syrup for a little brown sugar.
    • Smoky: Add a few drops of liquid smoke to the marinade for extra BBQ vibes.
    • Herbed: Stir in some fresh rosemary or thyme for a herby twist.

    What to Serve With Balsamic Tofu Steaks

    This grilled tofu pairs beautifully with:

    • Summer Salads like my fresh Green Slaw Salad or Greek Pearl Couscous Salad.
    • Grilled Veggies — zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, you name it.
    • Rice or Quinoa for a complete, satisfying meal.
    • Pita and Hummus for a Mediterranean-inspired plate.

    Storage

    Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

    Reheat: Gently reheat on a grill pan, in the oven at 350°F, or even in the air fryer until warmed through.

    Freezer: You can freeze grilled tofu, but the texture may change slightly. Freeze slices in a single layer, then transfer to a bag for up to 2 months.


    Frequently Asked Questions

    How do you keep tofu from sticking to the grill?

    Be sure to oil the grill grates well and don’t flip the tofu too early. Once it’s charred, it will release easily.

    Can I bake this tofu instead of grilling?

    Yes! Bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll still get a great flavor, though it won’t have those classic grill marks.

    Can I use firm tofu instead of extra firm?

    You can, but firm tofu is a bit more delicate. Handle it carefully when flipping to avoid breaking the slices.

    Cooked tofu  on a white plate with asparagus and salad

    Easy Grilled Balsamic Tofu Steak

    Sophie Viau
    Grilled Balsamic Tofu Steaks are flavorful, hearty, and easy to make. Marinated in a savory-sweet balsamic glaze, this tofu grills up tender on the inside and caramelized on the outside — perfect for a simple meatless main!
    5 from 2 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 15 minutes mins
    Cook Time 20 minutes mins
    marinated time 2 hours hrs
    Total Time 2 hours hrs 35 minutes mins
    Course main dish
    Cuisine Mediterranean
    Servings 4
    Calories 230 kcal

    Equipment

    • Tofu press (or a heavy pan and paper towels)
    • Sharp knife
    • Cutting board
    • Small mixing bowl
    • Whisk
    • Large bowl or shallow baking dish (for marinating)
    • BBQ grill or grill pan
    • Tongs or spatula

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 block extra firm tofu
    • 4 tablespoons olive oil
    • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar or rice vinegar
    • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
    • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
    • 2 shallots finely chopped
    • 2 teaspoons garlic minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
    • Salt and pepper to taste

    Instructions
     

    • Start by pressing the tofu to remove as much water as possible. You can use a tofu press if you have one, or simply wrap the tofu in paper towels and place a heavy pan on top for 15-20 minutes.
    • Once pressed, slice the tofu into about ½ inch thick slices.
    • In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, chopped shallots, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
    • Place the tofu slices in a large bowl or shallow baking dish. Pour the marinade over the tofu, ensuring all the pieces are evenly coated.
    • Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to let the tofu soak up all that incredible flavor.
    • Preheat your BBQ grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
    • Remove the tofu from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Place the tofu slices on the grill.
    • Cook for 7 to 10 minutes per side, until the tofu is nicely charred and heated through.
    • Serve the grilled balsamic tofu steaks hot, garnished with extra chopped herbs if you like!

    Notes

    • Press tofu well for the best texture.
    • Marinate overnight for maximum flavor.
    • Grill without moving too early to get those beautiful charred grill marks.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 230kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 8gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gSodium: 111mgPotassium: 241mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 3IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 54mgIron: 2mg
    Keyword BBQ, tofu, végan
    Tried this recipe?TAG Noble Veggies
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    5 from 2 votes (2 ratings without comment)

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    Sophie the author on a white background

    Hi I'm Sophie!

    I’m Sophie, the recipe creator and food photographer behind Noble Veggies. Here, you’ll find easy recipes that are all about balance, think cheesy pasta with broccoli, sheet pan chicken loaded with roasted veggies, and even a few veggie-packed sweets. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about making room for real food, quick prep, and a little veggie love on every plate.

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