Grilled Balsamic Maple Tofu

As days get longer and hotter the call of the grill beckons and can have those who don't eat meat jealous of the charred wonders coming off their neighbors grills. But vegetarians don’t have to feel left out! There is a whole delicious world of grilled goodies for vegetarians and vegans. Many fruits and vegetables work great on the grill, but perhaps one of the best vegetarian foods for grilling is tofu. Marinated tofu on the grill is so delectable, even many of my carnivore friends find it mouthwatering and irresistible.

This recipe features a delightful marinade of unlikely ingredients that coalesce to bring a tangy yet sweet flavor to the tofu. The sugar in the maple provides the tofu with the perfect charring ability. We like to enjoy our grilled balsamic maple tofu with a little bit of peach salsa and a summer salad that’s heavy on fruits and vegetables. Once you try this recipe, it will become a summer staple, whether you eat meat or not.

Ingredients:

• 1 block of extra firm tofu (anything less firm will disintegrate on the grill)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic oil
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons lemonade
• 1 teaspoon teriyaki sauce
• ½ teaspoon onion salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper

1. Prepare tofu by draining excess water. If you don’t own a tofu press, place tofu block between two plates and a few paper towels, place a heavy object on top, such as a can of beans. Drain for a minimum of 30 minutes.
2. While the tofu is draining, prepare marinade by mixing the remaining ingredients in a bowl.
3. Cut tofu into steaks or ½ inch thick slabs. This should yield about 10 steaks from 1 block of tofu. Transfer tofu to a 9x9 dish, arrange in a single layer.
4. Stir marinade thoroughly before applying to tofu. I like to spoon the marinade onto the tofu for even distribution instead of pouring.
5. Marinade for a minimum of 30 minutes. The longer the marinade sits, the more flavor the tofu will absorb, so the longer the better. I typically marinate for 2-4 hours.
6. Turn on grill to medium-low flame.
7. Grill tofu for about ten minutes to desired cripiness. Turn throughout process for even cooking.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!