If you’re looking for a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s both healthy and easy to make, the Lemon & Coriander Tofu Skewers Recipe is an absolute winner. This dish combines the bright citrusy zing of lemon with the fresh, herbaceous punch of coriander to elevate tender cubes of tofu into a crowd-pleasing delight. Perfectly marinated and grilled to a golden char, these skewers bring a sensational blend of taste, texture, and color that will have everyone asking for more. Whether you’re a longtime tofu lover or just starting to explore plant-based recipes, this recipe is a brilliant way to add excitement to your mealtime.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Lemon & Coriander Tofu Skewers Recipe are refreshingly simple but incredibly impactful. Each component plays a key role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this dish so addictive—from the fresh coriander that brings herbaceous brightness to the lemon juice that adds a natural tang and helps tenderize the tofu.
- 400g firm tofu, pressed and cubed: Firm tofu holds its shape perfectly on skewers and soaks up the marinade beautifully.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed): Adds vibrant acidity that brightens the entire dish.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps to meld flavors and gives the tofu a lovely golden finish when grilled.
- 1 tbsp soy sauce: Infuses a subtle umami depth to balance the tanginess.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers a savory punch that complements the herbs.
- 1 tbsp fresh coriander, chopped: Fresh coriander is the star herb, giving the skewers their signature flavor.
- 1 tsp ground cumin: Adds warmth and a slightly smoky note.
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional): For those who love a bit of heat, this gives a pleasant subtle kick.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors perfectly.
- Wooden or metal skewers: Necessary for grilling and presenting the tofu cubes beautifully.
How to Make Lemon & Coriander Tofu Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by combining the lemon juice, olive oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, chopped coriander, ground cumin, chili flakes, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. This marinade is the heart of the Lemon & Coriander Tofu Skewers Recipe, infusing each tofu cube with bright, zesty, and slightly spicy flavors. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth, aromatic blend.
Step 2: Marinate the Tofu
Carefully add your pressed and cubed tofu to the marinade. Gently toss to coat each piece evenly. The longer you let the tofu soak up the marinade, the more flavorful your skewers will be—so aim for at least 30 minutes. This step ensures the tofu absorbs all those vibrant tastes while softening slightly for a better bite.
Step 3: Skewer the Tofu
Once marinated, thread the tofu cubes onto your skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, don’t forget to soak them in water for 15-20 minutes beforehand to prevent any burning. Skewering the tofu not only makes it easier to grill but also turns these skewers into a perfect finger food or appetizer.
Step 4: Preheat and Grill
Preheat your grill or oven to 200°C (390°F). If you’re grilling, arrange the skewers on the grates and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, turning every few minutes. You’re aiming for a beautifully golden exterior with slight char marks that add depth to the flavor. If oven-baking, place the skewers on a lined tray and bake for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Ready to Serve
Once the skewers are nice and golden, they’re ready to enjoy. These tofu skewers deliver a light, refreshing, and satisfying experience, thanks to the fresh coriander and zesty lemon marinade surrounding every bite.
How to Serve Lemon & Coriander Tofu Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Lemon & Coriander Tofu Skewers Recipe, consider sprinkling some extra chopped fresh coriander or a little lemon zest over the top just before serving. A drizzle of tahini or a dollop of cooling yogurt-based sauce works beautifully to balance the lemon’s tang and spice.
Side Dishes
These skewers pair wonderfully with light, fresh sides. Think along the lines of a crisp cucumber salad, fluffy basmati rice, or even a Mediterranean-style tabbouleh. The fresh textures and subtle flavors of these sides complement the bold marinade perfectly, making for a harmonious meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Lemon & Coriander Tofu Skewers Recipe as part of a colorful platter full of hummus, grilled vegetables, and warm flatbreads. You can also slice the tofu off the skewers and toss in a vibrant salad for a refreshing lunch option or use the cubes as a protein-packed topping for grain bowls.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Lemon & Coriander Tofu Skewers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The tofu might absorb even more flavor as it rests, so it can taste even better the next day. Just remember to store the skewers separately from any fresh garnishes to keep everything crisp and fresh.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your tofu skewers, it’s best to remove them from the skewers first. Place the tofu cubes in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they will keep for around one month. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat gently for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, the grill or oven is your best friend. Heat the tofu skewers on a medium grill or in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through and slightly crisped again, about 5-8 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it tends to make tofu rubbery and less appetizing.
FAQs
Can I use soft or silken tofu for this recipe?
Firm tofu is best for this Lemon & Coriander Tofu Skewers Recipe because it holds its shape during marinating and grilling. Soft or silken tofu is much more delicate and will fall apart on the skewers.
How do I press tofu properly?
Pressing tofu removes excess water, allowing it to soak up more marinade. To do this, wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and place a heavy object on top for at least 20 minutes.
Can I bake the skewers instead of grilling?
Absolutely! Baking at 200°C (390°F) for about 20 minutes with a turn halfway through produces great results, especially if you don’t have access to a grill.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan and gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally vegan. For gluten-free, just ensure the soy sauce you use is gluten-free as well.
How spicy are these skewers?
The chili flakes are optional and used sparingly, so the heat is mild. You can adjust the amount to suit your spice preference or omit them entirely if you prefer no heat.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Lemon & Coriander Tofu Skewers Recipe enough for anyone wanting a fresh, tasty, and simple dish that feels special. The combination of bright lemon, fragrant coriander, and perfectly grilled tofu creates a flavorful experience that’s sure to become a regular in your cooking rotation. Give it a try—you’ll love how easy it is to bring such a vibrant taste to your table!
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Lemon & Coriander Tofu Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Vegetarian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Lemon & Coriander Tofu Skewers are a vibrant, flavorful vegetarian dish perfect for grilling or baking. Marinated in a zesty blend of fresh lemon juice, garlic, coriander, and warming spices, the firm tofu absorbs delicious flavors before being cooked to a golden, slightly charred finish. Ideal as a light main or a tasty appetizer, these skewers bring a nutritious punch with a refreshing citrus twist.
Ingredients
For the Marinade and Tofu
- 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
- Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, chopped fresh coriander, ground cumin, chili flakes, salt, and pepper until well combined to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the tofu: Add the pressed and cubed tofu to the marinade, gently tossing to ensure every piece is coated evenly. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors thoroughly.
- Assemble the skewers: Thread the marinated tofu cubes carefully onto wooden or metal skewers, spacing them slightly apart to ensure even cooking.
- Preheat the grill or oven: Set your grill or oven to 200°C (390°F), preparing it for cooking the tofu skewers.
- Cook the skewers: Grill the tofu skewers for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until they develop a golden color with slight char marks. Alternatively, place them on a lined baking tray and bake in the oven for 20 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even browning.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve the skewers hot, ideally accompanied by a fresh side salad or steamed rice for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Press the tofu well to remove excess moisture, which helps it absorb the marinade better and improves texture when cooked.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading to prevent burning.
- The chili flakes are optional depending on your spice preference; you can adjust the amount or omit them entirely.
- To make this dish vegan, ensure your soy sauce is free from additives like fish sauce.
- Marinating longer than 30 minutes, up to a few hours, will intensify the flavors further.
- These skewers can be cooked under a broiler if a grill or oven is not available, watching closely to avoid burning.
