Kansas-Style Grilled BBQ Tofu Skewers

Introduction

These Kansas-style grilled BBQ tofu skewers bring out the best smoky, caramelized barbecue flavors by using an Arteflame grill. The tofu is perfectly seared on the flat griddle cooktop, ensuring a crispy outer layer while staying juicy inside. With a delicious barbecue glaze, these skewers are a crowd-pleaser for any outdoor cookout.

Ingredients

• 1 block firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup Kansas-style barbecue sauce
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 1 zucchini, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 2 tbsp butter (for grilling)
• Wooden or metal skewers
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack firewood on top of the napkins and light the paper.
3. Let the fire burn for about 20 minutes until the flat cooktop reaches the ideal grilling temperature.

Step 2: Marinate the Tofu

1. In a bowl, toss the tofu cubes with the Kansas-style barbecue sauce.
2. Let the tofu marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

1. Thread the marinated tofu onto skewers, alternating with red bell pepper, green bell pepper, red onion, and zucchini.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Grill the Skewers

1. Melt butter on the flat cooktop where the heat is moderate.
2. Place the skewers on the flat griddle cooktop, ensuring they are in a medium-high heat zone.
3. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, turning occasionally for an even char.
4. Brush additional barbecue sauce on the skewers in the last few minutes of grilling.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
2. Serve hot with extra barbecue sauce on the side.

Tips

• For firmer tofu, freeze the tofu overnight, then thaw before pressing and using.
• Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
• Use a basting brush to apply barbecue sauce throughout grilling for extra flavor.
• Cooking near the center of the flat cooktop will give a beautiful caramelized sear.

Variations

1. Spicy Sriracha: Add a tablespoon of sriracha to the barbecue sauce for a fiery kick.
2. Teriyaki Glazed: Swap barbecue sauce for teriyaki sauce and sprinkle sesame seeds before serving.
3. Smoky Maple: Mix barbecue sauce with a touch of maple syrup and smoked paprika for a sweet-smoky twist.
4. Garlic Herb: Marinate tofu in olive oil, garlic powder, and Italian herbs instead of barbecue sauce.
5. Buffalo-Style: Use buffalo sauce instead of barbecue sauce and serve with ranch dressing.

Conclusion

Kansas-style grilled BBQ tofu skewers are a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy grilled tofu with bold flavors and a smoky finish. Using the Arteflame grill ensures the best texture and taste, making every bite a perfect balance of seared goodness and juicy tenderness.

Best Pairings

• Grilled corn on the cob
• Crispy sweet potato fries
• Cooling coleslaw
• Grilled pineapple slices
• Chilled lemonade or a light beer