Sweet and Spicy Tofu Skewers

Name: Sweet and Spicy Tofu Skewers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 block of firm tofu, drained and pressed; 2 bell peppers, cut into chunks; 1 red onion, cut into wedges; 1 zucchini, sliced; Wooden or metal skewers; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup; 1 tablespoon sriracha; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated

Highlighted under: International Flavor Recipes

Enjoy the delicious combination of sweet and spicy flavors with these easy-to-make tofu skewers.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-04T23:54:30.078Z

These Sweet and Spicy Tofu Skewers are a perfect dish for grilling season. The marinade blends sweet and spicy elements, giving the tofu a delightful flavor that pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delightful balance of sweet and spicy flavors
Easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners
Vegan-friendly and packed with protein

      

Health Benefits of Tofu

Tofu is a fantastic source of plant-based protein, making it an excellent choice for vegans and vegetarians. A single serving of tofu contains all nine essential amino acids, ensuring that your body gets the nutrients it needs. Additionally, tofu is low in calories and high in iron, which is vital for maintaining healthy energy levels and promoting overall wellness.

Incorporating tofu into your diet can also support heart health. It contains isoflavones, which have been shown to lower LDL cholesterol levels. This unique property can help in reducing the risk of heart disease while promoting healthy blood circulation. By enjoying these Sweet and Spicy Tofu Skewers, you're not just satisfying your taste buds but also nourishing your body.

Perfect Pairings

These Sweet and Spicy Tofu Skewers are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of side dishes. For a refreshing complement, consider serving them with a simple cucumber salad, dressed with lime juice and fresh herbs. This combination enhances the skewers' flavors while adding a crunchy texture to your meal.

If you're looking for a heartier side, a bowl of jasmine rice or quinoa can round out your dinner perfectly. The mild flavor of rice or quinoa absorbs the delicious marinade from the skewers, creating a satisfying and balanced meal. Feel free to add some steamed broccoli or snap peas for an extra dose of nutrients!

Tips for Grilling Tofu

Grilling tofu can be a bit tricky due to its delicate nature, but with the right techniques, you can achieve a delightful char and texture. First, ensure that you use firm or extra-firm tofu; this variety holds up better on the grill. Pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture is crucial, as it allows the marinade to penetrate deeper, enhancing the flavor.

When grilling, preheat your grill to medium heat to avoid sticking. If you're using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning. Finally, remember to turn the skewers occasionally to achieve an even char on all sides. This attention to detail will elevate your Sweet and Spicy Tofu Skewers to restaurant-quality.

Ingredients

For the Skewers

1 block of firm tofu, drained and pressed
2 bell peppers, cut into chunks
1 red onion, cut into wedges
1 zucchini, sliced
Wooden or metal skewers

For the Marinade

3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon sriracha
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, sriracha, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Mix well to create the marinade.

Marinate the Tofu

Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes and add it to the marinade. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Assemble the Skewers

Thread the marinated tofu, bell peppers, onion, and zucchini onto the skewers, alternating between ingredients.

Grill the Skewers

Preheat the grill to medium heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, let the skewers marinate overnight in the refrigerator.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving these skewers, the options are endless! You can present them as an appetizer for a gathering, or serve them as the main course alongside your favorite sides. A drizzle of extra sriracha or a sprinkle of sesame seeds can add an extra pop of flavor and visual appeal.

For a complete meal, consider adding a side of grilled corn or a fresh garden salad. The vibrant colors and textures of these dishes will not only make your plate more appealing but also create a delightful dining experience for you and your guests.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to deepen, making them even more enjoyable the next day. When reheating, simply place them on a skillet over medium heat or pop them back on the grill for a few minutes to warm through.

For those who love meal prep, these skewers can be marinated and assembled ahead of time. Just keep the uncooked skewers covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to grill. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze, allowing you to enjoy a healthy, homemade meal in no time!

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with your Sweet and Spicy Tofu Skewers! You can swap out the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and eggplant are excellent alternatives that add unique flavors and textures to the skewers.

For an extra kick, try adding different marinades or spices. A splash of lime juice or a sprinkle of chili flakes can transform the taste profile, making each batch of skewers uniquely delicious. Experimentation is key, and you might just discover your new favorite flavor combination!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Yes, feel free to substitute with your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.

→ Can I bake these skewers instead of grilling them?

Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.