| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 250 | 15g | 2.5g | 20g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 10g | 4g | 14g | 0.9g |
Why I Love Australian Aussie BBQ Tofu Skewers
As someone who finds joy in the interplay of cuisines, this Aussie BBQ Tofu Skewers recipe strikes a perfect balance between flavor and nostalgia for me. Raised in Atlanta with Nigerian roots, I’m always intrigued by dishes that fuse different culinary traditions. The Aussie BBQ Tofu Skewers do just that, bringing together the hearty, smoky elements of Australian barbecue with a vegetarian twist that fits right in with my lifestyle.
A Burst of Flavors
One of the most delightful aspects of this recipe is its multilayered taste. The smoky paprika and tangy barbecue sauce blend effortlessly with the subtle sweetness of maple syrup and the rich umami notes from the soy sauce. Every bite evokes memories of backyard cookouts and family gatherings, transcending geographical boundaries.
Drawing inspiration from chefs like Ben Milgate, who is renowned for his take on modern Australian barbecue, I wanted to create a dish that would be both comforting and innovative. Tofu, with its ability to soak up marinades, becomes the ideal canvas for these rich, complex flavors. When paired with vibrant, crispy bell peppers and zucchinis, it offers a refreshing contrast that is not only delicious but also visually appealing.
Perfect for Gatherings
Ideally suited for both intimate dinners and large gatherings, these skewers can hold their own as main courses or as a side dish. They’re a vegetarian-friendly option that meat-eaters will love too, thanks to the robust flavor profile.
If you’re looking to complete your meal, consider pairing these skewers with dishes like Loaded Sweet Potato Skins or a fresh, tangy Cucumber Tomato Salad. These complementary sides can elevate the dining experience, adding different textures and flavors to your plate.
There’s something universally appealing about barbecue, a sentiment that resonates across continents and cultures. In many ways, these Aussie BBQ Tofu Skewers remind me of suya from West Africa, another dish deeply rooted in community and celebration, albeit much spicier. But that’s the beauty of food, tying us all together in shared experiences and varying tastes.
In the end, it’s not just a recipe; it’s a narrative of culinary connections that span the globe. I hope you find as much joy in making and eating these skewers as I have. Enjoy!
What You’ll Need
- 2 blocks (14 oz each) firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 medium red bell peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 medium yellow bell peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 medium zucchinis, cut into 1-inch thick rounds
- 1 medium red onion, cut into chunks
- 12-18 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
“`
Method
Step One
Cut the drained and pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes.
Step Two
In a large bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, olive oil, soy sauce, maple syrup, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to make the marinade.
Step Three
Add the tofu cubes to the marinade and gently toss to coat. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for best flavor.
Step Four
While the tofu is marinating, prepare the vegetables. Cut the red and yellow bell peppers into 1-inch pieces, the zucchinis into 1-inch thick rounds, and the red onion into chunks.
Step Five
Once marinated, thread the tofu cubes, red bell peppers, yellow bell peppers, zucchini rounds, and red onion chunks onto the soaked wooden skewers, alternating between tofu and vegetables for variety.
Step Six
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
Step Seven
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the tofu is slightly charred and the vegetables are tender.
Step Eight
Remove the skewers from the grill and serve immediately. Enjoy your Aussie BBQ Tofu Skewers!
