Oven-Baked Tofu Skewers with Peanut Butter Marinade

If you're looking for a delicious, easy-to-make dish that brings the flavors of summer grilling indoors, look no further than these tofu skewers with a creamy peanut butter marinade. Whether you don't have access to a BBQ grill or the weather isn't cooperating, this recipe is perfect for preparing in the oven, making it a versatile option for any time of the year. The best part? The tofu absorbs all the rich, spicy flavors of the marinade, ensuring each bite is packed with taste.

Tofu is a fantastic ingredient for skewers because of its ability to soak up flavors. In this recipe, I marinated natural, flavorless tofu in a blend of agave syrup, soy sauce, peanut butter, and various spices. The peanut butter adds a creamy texture and a subtle nutty flavor, while the soy sauce and spices give it a savory kick. The tofu pieces stay juicy and tender because the marinade is plentiful, so you won't have to worry about them drying out in the oven.

What makes this recipe even more appealing is its flexibility. The marinade makes more than enough to coat the tofu thoroughly, so you can easily add your favorite veggies to the mix. Bell peppers, zucchini, and onions pair perfectly with tofu and help create colorful and nutritious skewers. The vegetables also absorb the marinade's flavors, adding an extra layer of taste and texture to every bite.

Preparing these skewers is straightforward and stress-free. After marinating the tofu for at least an hour, you thread it onto skewers with your chosen vegetables. If you're using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to prevent them from burning in the oven. Once everything is skewered, place them on a baking sheet and bake in the oven for about 30 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.

The result is a tray of beautifully caramelized, flavorful tofu and vegetable skewers that are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat. The oven method provides a consistent heat that ensures every skewer is perfectly cooked without the need for constant attention, unlike outdoor grilling. Plus, the savory peanut marinade becomes slightly caramelized in the oven's heat, adding a hint of smokiness that mimics the flavor of a BBQ grill.

They're a simple, delicious, and healthy option that brings the joy of grilling indoors, whatever the weather. Enjoy them hot out of the oven, and savor every bite of this flavorful dish!

You will need:
For 3-4 servings
● 360 g. firm tofu (natural, without flavors)
● 1 red bell pepper
● About 200 g. of zucchini
● 1 onion
● 8-10 wooden skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes)

For the marinade

● 30 ml. agave syrup
● 40 ml. soy sauce
● 50 g. of peanut butter (smooth, without sugar)
● 25 ml. oil
● 30 ml. barbecue sauce
● 1 teaspoon of onion powder
● 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
● 1 teaspoon of ground ginger
● ¼ teaspoon of ground black pepper
● 30 ml. water

Preparation
1.Squeeze the tofu with paper or cloth towels to release as much water as possible and drain well. Cut into cubes large enough to fit on skewers.

2.Cut the vegetables into pieces similar in size to the tofu.

3.Mix all the ingredients for the marinade. If the marinade is too thick, add more water or a little oil.

4.Mix the tofu cubes well with the marinade and leave them in a container where all the pieces are well coated. Refrigerate for 1 hour or more, stirring occasionally.

At the same time, the wooden skewers can be soaked in water to prevent them from burning during frying and soaked for 30-60 minutes.

5.Mix the vegetables with a little oil and salt.

6.Place the tofu and vegetables on the skewers. Pour the remaining marinade on top of the skewers. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.

7.Bake at 200 degrees for about 30 minutes, turning the skewers over after 15 minutes.
8.Once baked, they can be eaten immediately.