These smoky, peppered BBQ tofu steaks are made with a rich steakhouse-style marinade. It's an easy vegan tofu recipe that is packed with flavour, perfect for grilling or pan-frying. Get the recipe below.
f you think tofu is bland, these BBQ tofu steaks are about to change your mind. Thick slices of extra-firm tofu are marinated in a bold, smoky sauce loaded with cracked black pepper, garlic, soy sauce, and rich umami flavours that mimic a classic peppered steak. Once grilled or pan-seared, the tofu develops a beautifully caramelised crust while staying tender inside.
This recipe is ideal for summer BBQs, easy weeknight dinners, or meal prep. The marinade infuses every bite with savoury depth, while liquid smoke and black pepper create that unmistakable steakhouse flavour. Even meat-eaters love this hearty plant-based alternative.
Best of all, these BBQ tofu steaks are incredibly versatile. Serve them with mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, salads, rice bowls, or tucked into sandwiches. Whether you grill them outdoors or cook them in a skillet, they deliver satisfying smoky flavour every single time.
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Ingredients
It may look like a lot of ingredients but each one has been carefully selected for maximum flavour. Get your shopping list at the ready!
- Extra firm tofu
- Soy sauce
- Maple syrup
- Balsamic vinegar
- Liquid smoke
- Cracked black pepper
- Smoked paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Mustard
- Salt
- Olive oil
Overview of the steps
Take a quick glimpse at the steps in this recipe. A full set of instructions can be found in the recipe card below.
- Press tofu for 20–30 minutes.
- Slice into thick steaks.
- Mix marinade ingredients together.
- Marinate tofu for at least 1 hour.
- Grill or pan-fry tofu for 4–5 minutes per side.
- Brush with extra marinade while cooking.
- Serve hot with your favourite sides.
Hint: For the best texture, freeze the tofu overnight and thaw before pressing. This creates a chewier, meatier texture that works perfectly for tofu steaks.
Substitutions
Need to swap out some of the ingredients? Don't panic. You can easily make the following substitutions:
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
- Replace maple syrup with agave or brown sugar.
- Swap balsamic vinegar for apple cider vinegar.
- Use smoked salt if you do not have liquid smoke.
Equipment
Get the following equipment at the ready!
- Tofu press
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Grill, grill pan, or skillet
- Tongs or spatula
Storage
Store leftover BBQ tofu steaks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm in a skillet or oven until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can soften the crispy exterior.
I don't recommend freezing these tofu steaks.
Top tip
Marinate the tofu overnight if possible. The longer it sits, the deeper and richer the peppered steak flavour becomes.
Frequently asked questions
Extra firm tofu is best because it holds its shape and develops a meaty texture.
Yes. Bake at 220C / 425F for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway through.
No. You can wrap tofu in paper towels and place a heavy pan on top.
It adds authentic smoky BBQ flavour, but smoked paprika and smoked salt can help if you do not have it.
I buy mine online - it's readily available on Amazon.
The recipe
BBQ Tofu Steaks
Equipment
- Tofu press
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Grill, grill pan, or skillet
- Tongs or spatula
Ingredients
- 400 g extra-firm tofu
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
- 2 teaspoons cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon ground mustard
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Remove the tofu from its packaging and press it for at least 20–30 minutes to remove excess moisture. This helps the tofu absorb the marinade and develop a firmer texture.
- Cut the tofu into 3-4 thick steak-like slabs.
- In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, liquid smoke, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard, salt, and olive oil.
- Place the tofu steaks in a shallow dish or zip-top bag and pour over the marinade. Let marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavour.
- Heat a grill pan, BBQ, or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Lightly oil the surface and cook the tofu steaks for 4–5 minutes per side until deeply browned and caramelised.
- Brush extra marinade over the tofu while cooking.
Nutrition
Serving suggestions
Try one of these simple side dishes alongside these BBQ Tofu Steaks:
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