Barbecued Tofu

Tofu, a versatile and protein-packed ingredient, can be a delicious addition to any barbecue menu. Whether you’re a vegetarian looking for a meatless option or just wanting to try something new, barbecued tofu is a fantastic choice. The firm texture of tofu allows it to soak up the smoky flavors of the barbecue sauce while still holding its shape on the grill. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to prepare perfectly grilled barbecued tofu that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu
– 1 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon of onion powder
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs for garnish

Instructions:
1. Prepare the tofu: Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess water. Place the block of tofu between two kitchen towels or paper towels, then place a heavy object, like a cast-iron skillet, on top. Let it sit for about 20-30 minutes to press out the water.

2. Slice the tofu: Once the tofu is pressed, cut it into slices of your desired thickness. Thinner slices will absorb more flavor, while thicker slices will hold their shape better on the grill.

3. Marinate the tofu: In a shallow dish, whisk together the barbecue sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Place the tofu slices in the marinade, making sure each slice is well coated. Let the tofu marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.

4. Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.

5. Grill the tofu: Carefully place the marinated tofu slices on the grill. Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until nice grill marks form and the tofu is heated through. Baste the tofu with extra barbecue sauce while grilling for an extra boost of flavor.

6. Serve and garnish: Once the tofu is grilled to your liking, remove it from the grill and transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for a pop of color and freshness.

7. Enjoy: Serve the barbecued tofu hot off the grill as a main dish or as a side to your favorite barbecue spread. Pair it with grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Barbecued tofu is a delightful alternative to traditional barbecue fare, offering a unique and flavorful option for your next cookout or gathering. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a delicious and nutritious dish that will please vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. So fire up the grill, grab some tofu, and get ready to impress your guests with this mouthwatering barbecue treat!