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BBQ Tofu Skewers – Easy, Flavorful, and Perfect for Grilling

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients

  • Extra-firm tofu (14–16 oz block), pressed
  • BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade), plus extra for brushing
  • Soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
  • Olive oil or neutral oil
  • Maple syrup or brown sugar
  • Apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
  • Garlic, minced
  • Smoked paprika (optional but great for depth)
  • Black pepper and salt
  • Bell peppers (assorted colors), cut into chunks
  • Red onion, cut into wedges
  • Pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained) for sweetness
  • Zucchini or mushrooms (optional), cut into thick pieces
  • Skewers (metal or bamboo; soak bamboo in water 20–30 minutes)
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional, for garnish)
  • Lime wedges (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  • Press the tofu: Wrap the block of tofu in a clean towel and place something heavy on top for 20–30 minutes. This removes excess moisture so it crisps and holds together on the grill.
  • Mix the marinade: In a bowl, whisk 1/4 cup BBQ sauce, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon oil, 1 teaspoon vinegar, 1 teaspoon maple syrup, 1 clove minced garlic, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, and a pinch of black pepper. Taste and adjust salt or sweetness if needed.
  • Cut the tofu: Slice pressed tofu into 1- to 1.25-inch cubes. Thicker cubes stay sturdier on skewers and won’t dry out as easily.
  • Marinate: Toss tofu cubes in the marinade. Let them sit for at least 20–30 minutes, or up to 8 hours in the fridge. The longer they marinate, the deeper the flavor.
  • Prep the veggies and fruit: Cut bell peppers, red onion, and pineapple into skewer-friendly chunks. Aim for similar sizes so everything cooks evenly.
  • Preheat the grill or oven: Heat a grill to medium-high and oil the grates. For an oven, preheat to 425°F (220°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment or foil. A grill pan on the stove also works well.
  • Assemble the skewers: Thread tofu, peppers, onion, and pineapple onto skewers, alternating colors and textures. Don’t pack them too tightly—space helps them char and caramelize.
  • Grill or bake: - Grill: Cook 8–12 minutes total, turning every 2–3 minutes until you see good grill marks and light char. - Oven: Bake 18–22 minutes, turning once halfway through.
  • Glaze with BBQ sauce: During the last few minutes, brush skewers with extra BBQ sauce on all sides. Let the sauce caramelize slightly without burning.
  • Rest and serve: Remove from heat and rest 2 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro and a squeeze of lime. Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.