Pan-Grilled Tofu Skewers

Author Jackie Newgent says, "If you’re looking for an introduction to tofu, meet these Szechuan skewers. They offer a tasty way to try tofu for the first time, or the 101st time! Marinated in a gingery vinaigrette, inserted onto skewers, grilled until lovely caramelized grill markings form, and garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and sesame seeds, these tofu “pops” will be a hit for all the senses. Try them at your next cook-in…or cookout!"
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- Prep time
- 25 min
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- Cook time
- 20 min
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- Servings
- 6 Servings
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- Serving size
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3 skewers each
Ingredients
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soy sauce (naturally brewed)
- 2 tbsp
- 2 tbsp
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rice vinegar (brown)
- 1 1/2 tbsp
- 1 1/2 tbsp
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green onion (scallion) (green and white parts, minced)
- 1
- 1
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gingerroot (freshly grated)
- 1 tbsp
- 1 tbsp
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apple-apricot sauce or applesauce (no-sugar-added)
- 1 tbsp
- 1 tbsp
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sesame oil (toasted)
- 2 tsp
- 2 tsp
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crushed red pepper flakes (dried)
- 1/4 tsp
- 1/4 tsp
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(14-ounce) package extra-firm tofu (drained and squeezed of excess liquid)
- 1
- 1
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black or white sesame seeds (or a mixture) (toasted)
- 1 tsp
- 1 tsp
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fresh cilantro
- 2 tbsp
- 2 tbsp
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Directions
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Whisk together the soy sauce, vinegar, scallion, ginger, apple-apricot sauce, sesame oil, and hot pepper flakes in a small bowl. (Makes 1/2 cup.) Pour into a 9 × 13-inch pan or similar-size dish.
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Cut the tofu lengthwise into 9 slices; then, cut each slice in half lengthwise or crosswise, creating 18 pieces. Place the tofu slices in a single layer in the soy sauce mixture and marinate about 10–15 minutes per side.
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Preheat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Transfer each tofu slice to the pan using tongs, reserving the marinade. Grill (in batches) until deep grill marks form on both sides, about 3 1/2–4 minutes per side.
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Insert reusable or bamboo skewers into the cooked tofu, sprinkle with the sesame seeds and cilantro leaves, and serve while warm with the remaining marinade on the side.