Vegan Tofu Satay with Peanut Sauce
Firm tofu is marinated in a spiced blend of soy sauce, garlic, and warm spices, then grilled or pan-seared until golden and slightly charred. The skewers are served with a creamy, garlicky peanut sauce that balances richness with a hint of heat. Plan on about 45 minutes including marinating time, and serve as an appetizer or a main alongside rice.
Equipment
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowls
- Grill pan or outdoor grill
- Blender or whisk
- Tofu press or clean towel
- Bamboo skewers (soaked if wooden)
Ingredients
Tofu Satay
- 14 oz extra-firm tofu pressed for at least 15 minutes to remove moisture
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp sesame oil toasted preferred for deeper flavor
- 2 cloves garlic minced finely
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 0.5 tsp turmeric powder
- 0.25 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Peanut Sauce
- 0.5 cup natural peanut butter smooth, no added sugar
- 2 tbsp lime juice freshly squeezed
- 1.5 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp grated ginger finely minced
- 0.25 tsp chili flakes optional, for heat
- 6 tbsp warm water adjust for consistency
Instructions
- Prepare and marinate the tofu. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture for better texture. Cut into 1-inch cubes or rectangular slabs. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, maple syrup, sesame oil, minced garlic, coriander, turmeric, and black pepper. Add tofu and gently toss until coated. Cover and let marinate for at least 20 minutes.
- Make the peanut sauce. In a small mixing bowl or blender, combine peanut butter, lime juice, soy sauce, maple syrup, ginger, chili flakes, and warm water. Whisk or blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust water for desired consistency (dipping or drizzling thickness).
- Grill the tofu. Preheat a grill pan over medium heat (about 375°F / 190°C). Thread the marinated tofu onto soaked bamboo skewers. Lightly oil the pan and grill tofu skewers for about 6–7 minutes per side, turning until golden-brown and slightly charred.
- Plate and serve. Arrange tofu satay on a serving platter. Drizzle with peanut sauce or serve the sauce in a small ramekin on the side. Garnish with chopped cilantro, crushed peanuts, and a wedge of lime for brightness.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use tamari and confirm your peanut butter is free from wheat additives.
- Tofu can be grilled outdoors or cooked in an air fryer at 400°F (204°C) for 10–12 minutes for a crispier texture.
- To speed up flavor absorption, make small shallow cuts in the tofu before marinating.
Nutrition
Calories: 322kcalCarbohydrates: 19gProtein: 16gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 953mgPotassium: 422mgFiber: 2gSugar: 11gVitamin A: 42IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 70mgIron: 2mg
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