BBQ Tofu Slabs are a fantastic way to enjoy a smoky, tangy barbecue flavor with a plant-based twist. Thick slices of tofu get marinated in a flavorful BBQ sauce, then grilled or baked until they develop a delicious, caramelized crust that’s both juicy and satisfying. The texture is firm yet tender, making it a great alternative to traditional grilled meats.
I love making these BBQ Tofu Slabs when I want something easy but still full of bold flavors. One of my favorite tips is to press the tofu well before marinating so it soaks up all the BBQ goodness. It really makes a big difference in taste and texture. Plus, prepping the tofu ahead lets the sauce get nice and deep into every slab.
These slabs are perfect served on their own or stacked in a sandwich with fresh greens and pickles. I often pair them with grilled corn or a crisp salad for an easy outdoor meal. Whenever I make these, friends are always surprised at how tasty and hearty tofu can be, which makes me happy to share this simple recipe with them!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Extra-firm tofu: This type holds its shape well and is perfect for grilling. If you can’t find extra-firm, press firm tofu longer to remove extra moisture.
Barbecue sauce: Use your favorite store-bought sauce or make your own. For a sweeter touch, add maple syrup or brown sugar. Gluten-free BBQ sauces work great too.
Smoked paprika: Adds smoky depth without needing a smoker. If unavailable, try regular paprika or a pinch of liquid smoke for flavor.
Soy sauce or tamari: Gives savory umami. Tamari is a good gluten-free substitute.
How Do I Get the Best Texture and Flavor from Tofu?
Pressing tofu is key. It removes water so the tofu soaks up the marinade better and firms up for grilling.
- Wrap the tofu in towels and set a heavy object on top for 15-30 mins.
- Slice thick slabs to keep the tofu juicy inside and crispy outside when grilled.
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but longer (1-2 hours or overnight) means deeper flavor.
- Grill on medium-high heat, brushing with marinade, for nice char marks and added taste.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Cutting board and knife – I find these handy for slicing the tofu neatly into thick slabs.
- Heavy object or tofu press – Pressing the tofu helps remove excess water so it absorbs more marinade and stays firm during grilling.
- Shallow dish or ziplock bag – Perfect for marinating the tofu evenly so every bite is flavorful.
- Grill or grill pan – Essential for getting those nice grill marks and a smoky taste. If you don’t have one, broiling in the oven works well too.
- Brush or spoon – To apply extra marinade during grilling for added flavor and moisture.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use different proteins like tempeh or portobello mushrooms for variety. They absorb flavors well and add different textures.
- Add chopped fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley to the marinade for a fresh, vibrant twist.
- Mix in a splash of apple cider vinegar or hot sauce to the marinade for a tangy or spicy kick.
- Serve with a side of coleslaw, pickles, or grilled vegetables for a complete and colorful meal.
BBQ Tofu Slabs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 block (14-16 oz) extra-firm tofu
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 tbsp maple syrup or brown sugar for extra sweetness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, 30 minutes to marinate (or longer for more flavor), and around 10-15 minutes to grill. Overall, expect about 50 minutes to 1 hour if marinating for the minimum time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Press the Tofu
Take the tofu out of its package and drain any liquid. Wrap the block in clean kitchen towels or paper towels, then place a heavy object on top—like a cast iron pan or a stack of books. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes to press out extra moisture. This helps the tofu soak up the marinade better and results in a firmer texture.
2. Slice the Tofu into Slabs
After pressing, slice the tofu block into thick slabs about 3/4 to 1 inch thick. These slabs will hold together nicely during grilling.
3. Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, olive oil, soy sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and maple syrup or brown sugar if you’re using it. This sauce will give the tofu a smoky, slightly sweet flavor.
4. Marinate the Tofu
Place the tofu slabs in a shallow dish or a ziplock bag. Pour the marinade over them, making sure each slab is evenly coated. Let the tofu marinate for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor, marinate for 1-2 hours or even overnight in the fridge. Turn the slabs occasionally to soak up the sauce evenly.
5. Grill the Tofu
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates or pan to prevent sticking. Remove the tofu from the marinade, letting any extra drip off. Place the slabs on the grill and cook for about 4-6 minutes per side until nice grill marks appear, the tofu is heated through, and a bit charred. Brush extra marinade on the tofu while grilling for more flavor and moisture.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious BBQ Tofu Slabs hot! They’re great on their own or paired with sides like grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, or stuffed into sandwiches with fresh toppings. Enjoy your smoky, tasty meal!
Can I Use Frozen Tofu for BBQ Tofu Slabs?
Yes! Frozen tofu works well because freezing changes its texture to be more spongy, which soaks up marinade even better. Just thaw it completely in the fridge overnight and press out any excess water before marinating.
How Long Can I Marinate the Tofu?
At least 30 minutes is great for flavor, but marinating for 1-2 hours or overnight really deepens the taste. Just keep it covered in the fridge while marinating.
Can I Bake or Pan-Fry Instead of Grilling?
Absolutely! Bake tofu slabs at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. For pan-frying, cook on medium heat for 4-6 minutes per side until golden and slightly charred.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover BBQ tofu slabs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave, and brush with a little extra BBQ sauce to keep them moist.