If you’re looking to brighten up your meal routine with a fresh burst of flavor, this Lemon & Coriander Tofu Skewers Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining the zesty punch of lemon with the vibrant, herbal notes of fresh coriander, these skewers bring plant-based protein to life in a way that’s both simple and irresistibly tasty. The tofu soaks up a marinade full of aromatic spices and garlic, then grills to perfection, delivering a satisfyingly charred exterior while remaining tender inside. Whether you’re serving them at a casual BBQ or a weeknight dinner, these skewers will quickly become a favorite for their bright colors, bold flavors, and easy prep.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its straightforward, everyday ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building a balance of flavor, texture, and freshness. You won’t need anything complicated—just a handful of staples that work harmoniously to elevate the humble tofu.
- 400g firm tofu: Pressed and cubed, tofu provides a blank canvas that soaks up all the delicious marinade flavors.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice: Freshly squeezed for that essential tang and brightness that lifts the entire dish.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and helps the marinade coat the tofu for grilling.
- 1 tbsp soy sauce: Introduces a savory, umami depth that complements the lemon perfectly.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced garlic brings warmth and a mild pungency.
- 1 tbsp fresh coriander: Chopped cilantro is the star herb, imparting a fresh, citrusy aroma.
- 1 tsp ground cumin: Adds a subtle earthiness that pairs beautifully with the lemon and coriander.
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional): A gentle kick for those who love a little heat.
- Salt and pepper: Perfectly seasons everything to taste.
- Wooden or metal skewers: Essential for threading your tofu for easy grilling and serving.
How to Make Lemon & Coriander Tofu Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine your freshly squeezed lemon juice, olive oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, chopped fresh coriander, ground cumin, optional chili flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This marinade is where all the magic starts—it infuses the tofu with a lively blend of bright, savory, and slightly spicy flavors that will make every bite exciting.
Step 2: Marinate the Tofu
Carefully add your pressed and cubed tofu into the marinade, tossing gently to ensure each piece is coated evenly. Patience is key here; letting the tofu marinate for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, making sure it’s bursting with taste once cooked.
Step 3: Thread the Tofu onto Skewers
Once marinated, thread the tofu cubes onto your skewers. This step not only makes them easy to grill but also helps in getting those wonderful grill marks and a bit of char that add smoky complexity and texture to the dish.
Step 4: Preheat Your Grill or Oven
Set your grill or oven to a warm 200°C (390°F). Getting the temperature right ensures your tofu cooks evenly, developing a golden exterior while maintaining a soft, juicy inside.
Step 5: Grill or Bake the Skewers
Place your skewers on the grill, turning them occasionally to achieve an all-around golden color and slight charring. This should take about 10 to 15 minutes. If baking, lay the skewers on a lined tray and cook for roughly 20 minutes, remembering to turn halfway through to get that perfect texture and color.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove your cooked skewers and get ready to dive into the fresh, vibrant flavors. Serve them hot alongside your favorite sides for a meal that’s as satisfying as it is colorful.
How to Serve Lemon & Coriander Tofu Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped coriander or a few extra lemon wedges on the side instantly refreshes the plate and invites everyone to add a little extra zing. A light drizzle of olive oil or a dusting of chili flakes can also amp up the visual appeal and flavor intensity.
Side Dishes
These skewers pair spectacularly with a variety of sides. Think fluffy basmati rice or fragrant couscous to soak up the juices, a crisp mixed salad for crunch and freshness, or even warm flatbreads to make small wraps bursting with flavor. The versatility here lets you tailor the meal to your mood or the season.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or casual gathering, serve the Lemon & Coriander Tofu Skewers Recipe on a large wooden board garnished with wedges of bright lemon and scattered fresh herbs. This makes for both a stunning presentation and easy sharing. Alternatively, create individual plated servings with side dollops of tangy yogurt dip or spicy chutney to add extra layers of flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, simply place the cooked tofu skewers in an airtight container and refrigerate. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them a great option for next-day lunches or quick snacks.
Freezing
You can freeze the marinated tofu cubes before cooking for up to a month. Just thread and freeze them flat on a tray first, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and proceed with grilling or baking for a quick meal.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the skewers in an oven set to 180°C (350°F) for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make tofu rubbery instead of maintaining that delightful grilled texture.
FAQs
Can I use soft tofu instead of firm tofu?
Soft tofu is not ideal for skewers because it is too fragile and may break apart when being threaded or grilled. Firm tofu holds its shape better and absorbs the marinade more effectively for a pleasant texture.
How long can I marinate the tofu?
While 30 minutes is the minimum for good flavor, you can marinate your tofu for up to 12 hours in the fridge. The longer it marinates, the more intense and infused the flavors will become.
Can these skewers be cooked on a stovetop grill pan?
Absolutely! A grill pan works perfectly to get those lovely grill marks and a slightly charred taste without needing an outdoor grill. Just be sure to turn frequently for even cooking.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
To keep the dish gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I add vegetables to the skewers?
Yes! Cherry tomatoes, bell pepper chunks, or zucchini slices work wonderfully alongside tofu, adding color and extra flavors. Just be mindful of the different cooking times to avoid overcooking the veggies.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly uplifting about the bright, fresh flavors in this Lemon & Coriander Tofu Skewers Recipe. It’s an easy, feel-good dish that brings a little sunshine to any meal, whether you’re cooking for one or entertaining friends. So, don’t hesitate—grab your ingredients, fire up the grill, and enjoy this delicious journey of flavor that’s sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.
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Lemon & Coriander Tofu Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These Lemon & Coriander Tofu Skewers are a flavorful vegan dish featuring marinated firm tofu cubes grilled to perfection. Infused with fresh lemon juice, garlic, coriander, and a touch of spice, they make a delicious and healthy choice for a light meal or appetizer.
Ingredients
Tofu Marinade
- 400g firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh coriander, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Skewering
- Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, chopped coriander, ground cumin, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a balanced marinade.
- Marinate the Tofu: Add the pressed and cubed tofu to the marinade. Gently toss the tofu to coat all pieces evenly. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors fully.
- Thread the Tofu: Carefully thread the marinated tofu cubes onto wooden or metal skewers, ensuring they are spaced evenly for even cooking.
- Preheat the Grill or Oven: Heat your grill or oven to 200°C (390°F), preparing either for grilling the skewers or baking them on a tray.
- Cook the Skewers: Grill the tofu skewers for 10 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden with slight char marks. Alternatively, bake the skewers in the oven on a lined tray for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
- Serve: Remove the skewers from heat and serve hot. They pair wonderfully with a fresh side salad or steamed rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- Pressing the tofu thoroughly before marinating helps it absorb more flavor and improves texture.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes prior to prevent burning on the grill.
- The chili flakes are optional; adjust according to your preferred spice level.
- These skewers can be cooked indoors using an oven if a grill is not available.
- Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to maintain texture.
