Cilantro Lime Grilled Tofu Recipe

Tofu: Firm, drained, and pressed to remove excess moisture, providing a sturdy base for grilling.

Cilantro: Freshly chopped, adding a burst of herbal flavor to the marinade.

Olive oil: Used to create the marinade, helping to infuse the tofu with flavor and prevent sticking on the grill.

Lime juice: Freshly squeezed, providing a zesty and tangy element to the marinade.

Garlic: Minced cloves, adding a pungent and aromatic depth to the dish.

Cumin: A warm and earthy spice that complements the other flavors in the marinade.

Salt: Enhances the overall taste and balances the flavors.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of heat and complexity to the marinade.

To ensure the tofu absorbs maximum flavor, marinate it for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This allows the cilantro-lime marinade to penetrate deeper into the tofu, enhancing its taste. Additionally, make sure to press the tofu well to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a firmer texture and better grill marks.

• Cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley has a milder flavor and lacks the soapy taste some people perceive in cilantro.

• Olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar healthy fat profile and a high smoke point, making it great for grilling.

• Lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice provides a similar acidic brightness and tanginess.

• Garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, sweeter flavor that can complement the other ingredients well.

• Cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander has a warm, citrusy flavor that can provide a similar depth to the dish.

• Salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds saltiness along with umami, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

• Black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a slightly different heat and flavor but can still provide the necessary spiciness.

• Allow the tofu to cool completely before storing. This helps to maintain its texture and flavor.
• Place the cooled tofu slices in an airtight container. If stacking slices, separate each layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. The cilantro lime grilled tofu will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days.
• For longer storage, consider freezing. Lay the tofu slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. This prevents the slices from sticking together.
• Once frozen, transfer the tofu slices to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date for easy tracking.
• When ready to use, thaw the tofu in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat by grilling, pan-frying, or baking until warmed through.
• To maintain the best texture, avoid microwaving as it can make the tofu rubbery.
• Enhance the reheated tofu by brushing with a bit of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of cilantro before serving.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tofu slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover the tofu with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the tofu's texture and flavor.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to the pan. Place the tofu slices in the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through. This method gives the tofu a nice, crispy exterior while keeping it moist inside.

• Microwave Method: Place the tofu slices on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating. This is the quickest method but may slightly alter the tofu's texture.

• Grill Reheat: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Lightly brush the tofu slices with a bit more olive oil to prevent sticking. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side, just enough to warm them up and refresh the grill marks. This method keeps the tofu's original grilled flavor intact.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the tofu slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating. This method gives the tofu a crispy exterior while keeping it tender inside.

• Grill: Used to cook the tofu slices, giving them a smoky flavor and grill marks.

• Mixing bowl: Used to whisk together the cilantro, olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cumin, salt, and black pepper.

• Whisk: Used to mix the marinade ingredients thoroughly.

• Knife: Used to cut the tofu into ½-inch thick slices.

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting the tofu.

• Brush: Used to apply the cilantro-lime marinade to the tofu slices.

• Tongs: Used to place the tofu slices on the grill and to turn them over.

• Plate: Used to serve the grilled tofu once it is cooked.

Prepare the marinade ahead: Mix the cilantro, olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cumin, salt, and black pepper the night before to save time on the day of grilling.

Use a tofu press: Invest in a tofu press to quickly and efficiently drain and press the tofu.

Pre-cut tofu: Cut the tofu into slices as soon as you bring it home and store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Marinate in a bag: Place the tofu slices and marinade in a resealable plastic bag for easy and even coating.