18 Flavorful Tofu Marinade Recipes for Every Occasion

Posted on March 2, 2025

Tofu doesn’t have to be bland—it just needs the right marinade to transform into a flavor-packed star! Whether you’re craving quick weeknight dinners, seasonal BBQ vibes, or cozy comfort food, these 18 irresistible marinades will make your tofu sing. From zesty citrus to smoky umami, there’s a perfect match for every craving. Ready to level up your tofu game? Let’s dive in!

Spicy Sriracha Tofu Marinade

Spicy Sriracha Tofu Marinade

This bold, sticky marinade turns humble tofu into a flavor-packed star—perfect for grilling, baking, or tossing into stir-fries.

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
  • 14 oz block extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup sriracha sauce, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 2 cloves minced garlic, and 1 tsp grated ginger until smooth.
  2. Add tofu cubes to the marinade, gently tossing to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
  3. To cook: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high. Add marinated tofu (reserve leftover marinade) and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until caramelized. Pour in reserved marinade and simmer 1–2 minutes until glossy and thickened.

The magic here? The marinade doubles as a glaze, creating a sweet-heat crust that clings to every nook of the tofu.

Tip: For extra crispiness, bake the marinated tofu at 425°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Garlic Herb Tofu Marinade

Garlic Herb Tofu Marinade

This savory marinade transforms plain tofu into a flavor-packed star, perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-frying—your taste buds won’t believe it’s plant-based!

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried rosemary
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and sliced

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, 3 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tsp thyme, 1 tsp rosemary, and 1/2 tsp black pepper until combined.
  2. Add tofu slices to the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
  3. Cook as desired: Pan-fry over medium heat for 4–5 minutes per side until crispy, bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes flipping halfway, or grill for 3–4 minutes per side.

The garlic and herb combo creates a bold, aromatic crust that’s irresistible—even tofu skeptics will ask for seconds!

Tip: Freeze tofu before pressing for a chewier, meatier texture that soaks up marinade like a sponge.

Teriyaki Glazed Tofu Marinade

Teriyaki Glazed Tofu Marinade

This sweet-savory marinade transforms tofu into a sticky, caramelized delight—perfect for bowls, stir-fries, or even skewers!

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp ginger, 2 cloves garlic, 1 tbsp sesame oil, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (if using).
  2. Add tofu cubes to the marinade, tossing gently to coat. Let sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
  3. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high. Add tofu (reserve marinade) and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden.
  4. Pour reserved marinade into the skillet and simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring often, until the glaze thickens and coats the tofu.

The magic here? The marinade doubles as a glaze, creating a glossy, restaurant-worthy finish with zero waste.

Tip: For extra crispiness, toss the marinated tofu in 1 tbsp cornstarch before cooking.

Lemon Pepper Tofu Marinade

Lemon Pepper Tofu Marinade

This zesty, punchy marinade transforms tofu into a flavor-packed star—perfect for grilling, baking, or tossing into salads.

Ingredients:

  • 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 tbsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp maple syrup (or agave)

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp olive oil, 3 tbsp lemon juice, 2 tsp lemon zest, 1 tbsp black pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1 tsp maple syrup until combined.
  2. Add tofu cubes to the marinade, gently tossing to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
  3. Cook as desired: Bake at 400°F for 25 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy, or pan-fry over medium heat for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

The bold lemon-pepper bite and subtle sweetness make this tofu irresistible—even for skeptics! Tip: For extra crispiness, toss marinated tofu in 1 tbsp cornstarch before cooking.

Sweet and Smoky BBQ Tofu Marinade

Sweet and Smoky BBQ Tofu Marinade

This irresistible marinade transforms tofu into a sticky, caramelized delight with the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors.

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup ketchup, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until smooth.
  2. Add tofu cubes to the marinade, gently tossing to coat. Let sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
  3. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high. Add tofu (reserve marinade) and cook for 5–6 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly charred.
  4. Pour reserved marinade into the skillet and simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened into a glossy glaze.

The magic here? The marinade doubles as a finishing glaze, creating a lacquered, finger-licking crust that clings to every bite.

Tip: For extra texture, bake the marinated tofu at 400°F for 20 minutes before glazing—it’ll get crispier edges!

Sesame Ginger Tofu Marinade

Sesame Ginger Tofu Marinade

This bold, savory marinade transforms tofu into a flavor-packed star—perfect for stir-fries, bowls, or grilling.

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp fresh grated ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tbsp sesame oil, 2 tbsp maple syrup, and 1 tbsp rice vinegar until smooth.
  2. Stir in 1 tbsp grated ginger, 2 cloves minced garlic, and 1 tsp red pepper flakes (if using).
  3. Pour the marinade over tofu (pressed and cubed) in a shallow dish, turning to coat. Let sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the fridge.
  4. Cook as desired (bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway, or pan-fry until crispy). Sprinkle with 1 tbsp sesame seeds before serving.

The magic here? The marinade caramelizes as it cooks, creating a sticky-sweet glaze with a punch of ginger and nutty sesame.

Tip: Double the batch and keep it in the fridge—it works wonders on chicken or roasted veggies too!

Honey Mustard Tofu Marinade

Honey Mustard Tofu Marinade

This sweet-tangy marinade transforms tofu into a caramelized, flavor-packed star—perfect for bowls, salads, or sandwiches.

Ingredients:

  • 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
  • 3 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp honey, 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp smoked paprika, and ¼ tsp black pepper until smooth.
  2. Add tofu cubes to the marinade, gently tossing to coat. Let sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the fridge).
  3. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high. Add tofu (reserve leftover marinade) and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until deeply golden, brushing with extra marinade halfway through.

The honey mustard glaze creates a sticky, glossy crust with just the right balance of sweetness and punch—no bland tofu here!

Tip: For extra crispiness, bake the marinated tofu at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping once.

Miso Soy Tofu Marinade

Miso Soy Tofu Marinade

This umami-packed marinade transforms plain tofu into a savory, caramelized dream—perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-frying.

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup white miso paste
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium if preferred)
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup white miso paste, 3 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, and 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil until smooth.
  2. Stir in 2 cloves minced garlic and 1 tsp grated ginger.
  3. Pour the marinade over tofu (cut into slabs or cubes), coating evenly. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.
  4. Cook as desired: Pan-fry over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side until crispy, or bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.

The fermented tang of miso balances the sweetness of maple syrup, creating a glossy, restaurant-worthy glaze that clings to every bite.

Tip: For extra caramelization, brush reserved marinade onto the tofu during the last 5 minutes of cooking (discard any used with raw tofu).

Maple Dijon Tofu Marinade

Maple Dijon Tofu Marinade

This sweet-savory marinade transforms tofu into a caramelized, flavor-packed star—perfect for weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 14 oz block extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed

Instructions:

  1. Whisk together 1/4 cup maple syrup, 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder in a bowl.
  2. Toss tofu cubes in the marinade until fully coated. Let sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
  3. Preheat oven to 400°F. Arrange tofu on a parchment-lined baking sheet, reserving excess marinade.
  4. Bake for 25 minutes, flipping halfway and brushing with reserved marinade, until edges are crispy and glaze is sticky.

The magic here? The marinade doubles as a glaze, creating a glossy, restaurant-worthy finish without extra steps.

Tip: For grill-friendly tofu, thread marinated cubes onto skewers and cook over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side.

Peanut Satay Tofu Marinade

Peanut Satay Tofu Marinade

This rich, nutty marinade transforms tofu into a crave-worthy dish with just 10 minutes of prep—perfect for weeknights or meal prep!

Ingredients:

  • 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • 2 tsp sriracha
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp grated ginger
  • 1/4 cup coconut milk
  • 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed

Instructions:

  1. Whisk together 1/3 cup peanut butter, 3 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp lime juice, 1 tbsp maple syrup, 2 tsp sriracha, 2 cloves minced garlic, and 1 tsp ginger in a bowl until smooth. Slowly stir in 1/4 cup coconut milk to create a pourable sauce.
  2. Toss tofu cubes in the marinade until fully coated. Let sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) in the fridge.
  3. Cook tofu in a nonstick skillet over medium heat for 8–10 minutes, flipping occasionally, until edges caramelize and sauce clings to each piece.

The magic here? The marinade doubles as a glaze, creating sticky, golden bits without extra oil. Serve over rice with a squeeze of lime!

Tip: For extra crunch, bake marinated tofu at 400°F for 20 minutes instead of pan-frying.

Chili Lime Tofu Marinade

Chili Lime Tofu Marinade

This zesty marinade transforms tofu into a tangy, spicy delight—perfect for grilling or pan-searing for tacos, bowls, or salads!

Ingredients:

  • 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
  • 3 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
  • 2 tsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp lime juice, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp honey, 2 tsp soy sauce, 1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, and 1/4 tsp salt until smooth.
  2. Add tofu cubes to the marinade, gently tossing to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
  3. Cook as desired: Pan-fry over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side until crispy, or bake at 400°F for 25 minutes, flipping halfway.

The smoky-sweet marinade caramelizes beautifully, giving the tofu a sticky glaze and a punch of brightness from the lime. Tip: For extra char, grill the marinated tofu on skewers over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side!

Balsamic Glazed Tofu Marinade

Balsamic Glazed Tofu Marinade

This sweet-tangy marinade transforms tofu into a caramelized, flavor-packed star—perfect for bowls, salads, or sandwiches.

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 14 oz block extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tbsp olive oil, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika.
  2. Add tofu cubes to the marinade, gently tossing to coat. Let sit for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
  3. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high. Add tofu (reserve marinade) and cook for 5–6 minutes, flipping until browned on all sides.
  4. Pour reserved marinade into the skillet and simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring often, until the liquid reduces to a glossy glaze that clings to the tofu.

The magic here? The marinade doubles as a glaze, creating sticky-sweet edges with a hint of smokiness. Tip: For extra crispiness, bake the marinated tofu at 400°F for 20 minutes before glazing.

Curry Coconut Tofu Marinade

Curry Coconut Tofu Marinade

This creamy, fragrant marinade transforms tofu into a flavor-packed star—perfect for grilling, baking, or tossing into stir-fries.

Ingredients:

  • 1 (14 oz) block extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
  • 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 2 tsp curry powder
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup coconut milk, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tbsp lime juice, 2 tsp curry powder, 1 tsp turmeric, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (if using) until smooth.
  2. Add tofu cubes to the marinade, gently tossing to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
  3. To cook: Heat a skillet over medium-high, then add marinated tofu (reserve excess marinade). Sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Pour in leftover marinade and simmer for 2 minutes until slightly thickened.

The coconut milk caramelizes beautifully while the curry and lime keep it bright—no bland tofu here! Tip: For extra crispiness, bake the marinated tofu at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Orange Ginger Tofu Marinade

Orange Ginger Tofu Marinade

This zesty marinade transforms plain tofu into a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy delight—perfect for grilling or baking.

Ingredients:

  • 1/3 cup fresh orange juice
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup orange juice, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tbsp ginger, 2 cloves garlic, 1 tsp sesame oil, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (if using).
  2. Add tofu cubes to the marinade, tossing gently to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
  3. When ready to cook, heat a skillet over medium-high. Shake excess marinade off tofu and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until caramelized. Alternatively, bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.

The bright citrus and warm ginger create a glossy, sticky glaze that clings to every bite—no bland tofu here!

Tip: Double the marinade and reserve half to brush on while cooking for extra flavor.

Savory Mushroom Tofu Marinade

Savory Mushroom Tofu Marinade

This umami-packed marinade turns simple tofu into a flavor bomb, with earthy mushrooms and a hint of sweetness balancing the savory notes.

Ingredients:

  • 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
  • 1 cup sliced cremini mushrooms
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp grated ginger
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tsp ginger, 1 tbsp sesame oil, and ½ tsp black pepper.
  2. Add cubed tofu and 1 cup sliced mushrooms to the marinade, tossing gently to coat. Let sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours).
  3. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high. Add tofu and mushrooms (reserve marinade) and cook for 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden.
  4. Pour reserved marinade into the pan and simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened and glossy.

The magic here? The marinade doubles as a glaze, creating caramelized edges on the tofu while keeping the mushrooms juicy.

Tip: For extra texture, toss in a handful of chopped scallions right before serving.

Cilantro Lime Tofu Marinade

Cilantro Lime Tofu Marinade

Bright, zesty, and packed with fresh herb flavor, this marinade transforms tofu into a vibrant protein that’s perfect for bowls, tacos, or salads.

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup lime juice, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1/4 cup cilantro, 2 cloves garlic, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until combined.
  2. Add tofu cubes to the marinade, gently tossing to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
  3. Heat a skillet over medium-high. Add the marinated tofu (reserve excess marinade) and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and slightly crisp.
  4. Pour the remaining marinade over the tofu in the last minute of cooking, stirring to glaze.

The lime’s tang and cilantro’s freshness cut through the tofu’s richness, while a quick pan-sear gives it a satisfying caramelized edge.

Tip: For extra-crispy tofu, toss the cubes in 1 tbsp cornstarch before marinating!

Pineapple Teriyaki Tofu Marinade

Pineapple Teriyaki Tofu Marinade

Sweet, tangy, and packed with umami, this marinade turns simple tofu into a tropical flavor bomb—perfect for grilling or baking!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup pineapple juice (100% unsweetened)
  • 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup pineapple juice, 1/3 cup soy sauce, 2 tbsp honey, 2 tbsp rice vinegar, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tbsp ginger, 1 tbsp sesame oil, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (if using).
  2. Place tofu cubes in a shallow dish or resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Toss gently to coat.
  3. Marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor), flipping halfway.
  4. Cook as desired: Bake at 400°F for 25 minutes, flipping once, or grill on medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side until caramelized.

The pineapple’s natural enzymes tenderize the tofu while adding a subtle brightness that balances the rich teriyaki glaze—no one will guess it’s this simple!

Tip: Reserve a little marinade before adding the tofu to brush on during cooking for extra glossy, sticky-sweet results.

Rosemary Garlic Tofu Marinade

Rosemary Garlic Tofu Marinade

This savory marinade transforms tofu into a fragrant, herb-packed star—perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing.

Ingredients:

  • 1 (14-oz) block extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, 3 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp maple syrup, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp rosemary, and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
  2. Add tofu cubes to the marinade, tossing gently to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
  3. Cook as desired: For crispy tofu, bake at 400°F for 25 minutes, flipping halfway, or pan-fry over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side until golden.

The rosemary’s piney notes and garlic’s punch make this tofu irresistible—even for skeptics. Tip: Double the marinade and reserve half for drizzling after cooking!

Conclusion

With 18 delicious tofu marinades to choose from, there’s something here for every taste and occasion! Whether you’re grilling, baking, or stir-frying, these recipes will bring bold flavor to your meals. Give them a try, then let us know which one’s your favorite in the comments. Don’t forget to share this roundup on Pinterest so others can enjoy these tasty ideas too. Happy cooking!

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