Grilled tofu steaks with a savory steakhouse-style marinade? Yes, please. This recipe uses soy sauce, whole grain mustard, and steak seasoning to give tofu bold, smoky flavor that rivals any grilled protein. Press it, marinate it, grill it, and watch tofu skeptics become believers.
I make this all the time during BBQ season. The marinade is so good that sometimes I make extra to brush on grilled veggies too.
The best part? It's so easy. Just whisk, marinate, grill, and boom, done. It's amazing served with grilled veggies, a big summer salad.
If you want more grilled recipes make sure to try my Juicy Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Skewers or my Easy Grilled Balsamic Tofu.
Quick Answer
Savory grilled tofu steaks are marinated in soy sauce, whole grain mustard, and steak seasoning, then grilled until crispy and charred.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 30 minutes marinating)
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Texture: Crispy charred outside, tender inside
- Method: Marinate and grill
- Diet: Vegan, dairy-free
Jump to:
The ingredients
- Extra-firm tofu: Press it really well so it soaks up all that savory marinade.
- Soy sauce or tamari: Brings deep umami and helps the tofu caramelize on the grill.
- Whole grain mustard: Adds tang and a little bite. This is what makes it feel steakhouse-style.
- Olive oil: Helps with crisping and gives it a nice char.
- Garlic: Freshly minced is best, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
- Steak seasoning: Montreal steak spice is my go-to. It brings all the classic grilled flavor.
- Maple syrup: Just a touch to balance the salty-savory punch.
- Salt & pepper: Always.
See the Recipe card for quantities
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Grilled Tofu Steak
1. Press the tofu.
Use a tofu press or wrap in a towel and weigh it down for at least 20 minutes. This step is key for a great texture.
2. Make the marinade.
In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce olive oil, mustard, minced garlic, maple syrup, steak seasoning, salt and pepper.
3. Slice and marinate.
Cut the tofu into thick "steaks" and lay them in a shallow dish or container. Pour the balsamic tofu marinade over the top. Let it soak for 30 minutes, flipping halfway.
4. Grill it.
Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high. Lightly grease. Cook the tofu steaks for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden and lightly charred.
5. Serve and enjoy!
Let them cool slightly, then dig in. Serve with grilled corn, rice, or a crunchy cucumber salad.
Tips for Success
- Press the tofu well to avoid soggy results. I can't stress this enough.
- Use a non-stick grill pan or oil your grates so it doesn't stick.
- Don't skip the maple syrup - that touch of sweet helps balance all the acid.
- Marinate longer if you can. Even an hour makes it better.
Variations
- Make it spicy with crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha.
- Use the leftovers to make tofu steak sandwiches with fresh greens and vegan mayo.
Serving Ideas
- Slice over a bowl of rice and roasted veggies.
- Add to a wrap with hummus, spinach, and pickled onions.
- Pair it with corn on the cob and potato salad for a BBQ-style plate.
- Cube it and toss into salads or noodle bowls.
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in a skillet or air fryer for best texture.
- You can freeze tofu before marinating to change the texture-it gets chewier!
FAQs
How do I keep the tofu from sticking to the grill?
Oil your grill grates really well before heating, and don't try to flip the tofu too early. Once it's nicely charred, it'll release naturally. Patience is key!
What type of tofu works best?
Stick with extra-firm or super-firm for best results. Silken won't hold up to grilling.
How long can I marinate the tofu?
At least 30 minutes, but you can go up to 24 hours. The longer it sits, the more flavor it soaks up. Just don't go beyond a day or the texture can get mushy.
Grilled Tofu Steak
Equipment
- Tofu press or heavy pan
- Grill pan or outdoor grill
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs or spatula
Ingredients
- 1 block 14 oz firm or extra-firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon whole grain mustrad
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon steak seasonning
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Drain and press the tofu for at least 20-30 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Whisk together the marinade in a bowl: soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, mustard, steak seasoning, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
- Slice tofu into ยฝ-inch thick steaks. Place in a shallow dish.
- Pour marinade over tofu, flipping to coat both sides. Marinate 30 minutes.
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium heat. Lightly oil the surface.
- Grill tofu 3-4 minutes per side until charred and crispy.
- Remove from heat, rest 5 minutes, and serve with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Press your tofu well - this is non-negotiable. The drier the tofu, the better it absorbs the marinade.
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is even better for max flavor.
- Don't flip too early - let the tofu sit on the grill undisturbed so it develops those beautiful char marks.
- Make extra marinade and brush it on veggies or use it as a salad dressing. It's that good.
- Leftovers are amazing - slice them cold for wraps, grain bowls, or salads.
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