Grilled Korean Tofu & Leek Skewers with Sesame Glaze
Elevate your outdoor dining experience with these Grilled Korean Tofu & Leek Skewers, perfect for National Picnic Week! This vibrant, plant-based dish features firm tofu marinated in a delightful sesame-based sauce, ensuring a burst of flavor in every bite. Tofu, packed with protein and phytoestrogens, provides several health benefits, particularly for women experiencing menopausal symptoms. The addition of leeks introduces a mild onion-like flavor that caramelizes beautifully on the grill, making these skewers irresistible. Finished with toasted sesame seeds, these skewers not only celebrate the freshness of the outdoors but also deliver a nutritious option that is kind to your body and soul.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
firm tofu
500 g (cut into cubes)
leeks
80 g (washed and cut into 2-inch pieces)
toasted sesame seeds
20 g (for garnish)
soy sauce
62.5 ml (gluten-free optional)
sesame oil
62.5 ml
apples
100 g (cored and chopped into quarters)
maple syrup
30 ml
Korean chili paste
25 g
Instructions
1
Start by preparing the marinade: in a blender, combine the soy sauce, sesame oil, maple syrup, chili paste, and chopped apples. Blend until smooth.
2
Place the firm tofu cubes in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure all pieces are well-coated, then cover and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
3
When ready to cook, preheat your grill pan to 220°C (430°F) and lightly coat it with non-stick cooking spray.
4
While the grill is heating, prepare the leeks by washing them thoroughly and cutting them into 2-inch pieces.
5
Once marinated, thread the tofu and leek pieces alternately onto skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece for even grilling.
6
Place the skewers on the preheated grill pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and have grill marks.
7
Once done, remove the skewers from the grill, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, and serve warm for a delightful, protein-packed meal outdoors.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary protein in these skewers?
The primary protein source in this recipe is 500g of firm tofu.
Is this Grilled Korean Tofu recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is entirely plant-based and vegan.
How long should I marinate the tofu for the best flavor?
For the best flavor, you should marinate the tofu cubes overnight in the refrigerator.
What temperature should the grill be set to?
The grill pan should be preheated to 220°C (430°F).
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply ensure you use a gluten-free soy sauce option.
What ingredients are needed for the marinade?
The marinade consists of soy sauce, sesame oil, maple syrup, Korean chili paste, and chopped apples.
How long do the skewers need to cook on the grill?
The skewers should be grilled for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
How should I prepare the leeks for the skewers?
The leeks should be washed thoroughly and cut into 2-inch pieces.
Why are apples included in the marinade?
Apples are blended into the marinade to add natural sweetness and depth to the glaze.
What is the recommended garnish for this dish?
The dish is finished with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.
Is this dish suitable for those experiencing menopause?
Yes, tofu contains phytoestrogens which can provide health benefits for those experiencing menopausal symptoms.
How much Korean chili paste is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 25g of Korean chili paste.
What is the total weight of tofu required?
You will need 500g of firm tofu.
Can I use soft tofu instead of firm tofu?
No, it is recommended to use firm tofu so it holds its shape on the skewers and during grilling.
What kind of oil is used in the marinade?
The recipe uses 62.5 ml of sesame oil for the marinade.
How much maple syrup is needed?
The recipe requires 30 ml of maple syrup.
Is this recipe good for outdoor dining?
Yes, it is specifically described as perfect for National Picnic Week and outdoor dining.
What tool is used to make the marinade smooth?
You should use a blender to combine and smooth the marinade ingredients.
How much soy sauce is required?
The recipe calls for 62.5 ml of soy sauce.
What should I apply to the grill pan before cooking?
You should lightly coat the grill pan with non-stick cooking spray.
Should the tofu be cut into specific shapes?
Yes, the tofu should be cut into cubes for easy skewering.
How many ingredients in total are used in this recipe?
There are 8 ingredients in this recipe.
Is there a specific weight for the leeks used?
Yes, the recipe uses 80g of leeks.
What type of sesame seeds are used for the garnish?
The recipe specifies 20g of toasted sesame seeds.
What should I look for to know the skewers are finished?
The skewers are done when they are golden brown and display visible grill marks.
How should the pieces be arranged on the skewers?
Alternate the tofu and leek pieces, leaving a little space between each for even grilling.
Can I serve these skewers cold?
The instructions recommend serving the skewers warm.
What is the weight of apples used in the marinade?
The recipe uses 100g of apples, cored and chopped into quarters.
Does this dish contain any cholesterol?
Being a vegan tofu-based dish, it is naturally cholesterol-free.
What makes this dish particularly 'Korean' in style?
The use of Korean chili paste (Gochujang), soy sauce, and sesame oil provides its Korean flavor profile.