How to Make Tofu Satay: A Delicious and Easy Vegan Recipe

Tofu satay is a flavorful and satisfying vegan alternative to the traditional chicken or beef versions. This dish features skewers of marinated tofu grilled to perfection and served with a rich and savory peanut sauce. It’s surprisingly easy to make at home, allowing you to enjoy the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia anytime you crave them.

Why You’ll Love This Tofu Satay Recipe

• Easy to make: This recipe is perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks.
• Bursting with flavor: The marinade and peanut sauce are packed with aromatic spices and herbs.
• Healthy and satisfying: Tofu is a great source of plant-based protein, making this dish both healthy and satisfying.
• Perfect for any occasion: Serve it as an appetizer, main course, or party snack.

Ingredients

For the Tofu Satay:

• 1 (14-ounce) package firm tofu, pressed and drained
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup peanut butter, creamy or crunchy
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

For the Peanut Sauce:

• 1/2 cup peanut butter, creamy or crunchy
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Equipment

• Bamboo skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes)
• Grill or grill pan
• Small saucepan
• Mixing bowls

Instructions

Making the Tofu Satay:

1. Prepare the tofu: Cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes. Thread the tofu cubes onto the soaked skewers.
2. Make the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, peanut butter, brown sugar, lime juice, vegetable oil, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Marinate the tofu: Pour the marinade over the skewered tofu, ensuring all sides are coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.

Making the Peanut Sauce:

1. Combine the ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine all the peanut sauce ingredients over medium heat.
2. Simmer and thicken: Bring the mixture to a simmer, whisking constantly. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
3. Adjust the flavor: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more soy sauce for saltiness, lime juice for tanginess, or brown sugar for sweetness.

Grilling the Tofu Satay:

1. Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat.
2. Grill the satay: Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the tofu is golden brown and slightly charred.
3. Serve immediately: Remove the tofu satay from the grill and serve immediately with the warm peanut sauce.

Tofu Satay with Peanut Sauce

Tips and Variations

• Pressing the tofu: Pressing the tofu helps remove excess moisture, resulting in a firmer texture that holds up well on the grill.
• Soaking the skewers: Soaking bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes prevents them from burning on the grill.
• Adjusting the heat: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to control the spice level of the marinade and peanut sauce.
• Serving suggestions: Serve tofu satay with steamed rice, rice noodles, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

FAQs

Can I bake the tofu satay instead of grilling?

Yes, you can bake the tofu satay in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Can I make the peanut sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The peanut sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Dipping Tofu Satay in Peanut Sauce

Conclusion

This tofu satay recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy the flavors of Southeast Asia at home. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments below!

Want to explore more exciting vegan recipes? Check out our guides on How to Make Vegetable and Tofu Satay, How to Make Tofu Pad Thai, and various sambal recipes like Sambal Nanas, Sambal Petis, and Sambal Udang. Happy cooking!