Spicy Jamaican Jerk Tofu

Name: Spicy Jamaican Jerk Tofu
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 14 oz firm tofu, pressed and drained; 2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 red onion, sliced; 1 cup pineapple, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love experimenting with bold flavors in my cooking, and Spicy Jamaican Jerk Tofu is a standout favorite. This dish bursts with the vibrant spices of jerk seasoning, giving the tofu a deliciously smoky and spicy kick that transports me straight to the Caribbean. It's not only simple to prepare but also incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. The combination of marinated tofu and fresh vegetables creates a wonderful textural contrast that I can't resist!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-05T21:14:30.710Z

When I first tried making Jamaican jerk seasoning, I was amazed at how versatile it could be. I decided to marinate tofu in this fragrant blend of spices to see how it would hold up, and the result was out of this world! The key is to let the tofu soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, allowing those complex flavors to penetrate and transform the plain tofu into a flavor-packed delight.

While grilling or pan-frying the marinated tofu, I like to keep an eye on it to achieve that beautiful char while ensuring it remains tender inside. I also love to serve it alongside fresh pineapple salsa; the sweet and spicy combination is absolutely heavenly!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bold and spicy flavor that excites the palate
Healthy, plant-based protein option
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables
Great for meal prep and leftovers

      

Choosing the Right Tofu

When making Spicy Jamaican Jerk Tofu, the choice of tofu is crucial. Firm tofu works best because it holds its shape when pressed and fried, allowing for a satisfying texture that doesn't crumble. Ensure you press the tofu thoroughly—10-15 minutes under a weight will remove excess moisture and help it absorb the jerk seasoning better, leading to a more flavorful dish. If you're looking for creaminess, consider silken tofu, but bear in mind it may not hold up as well during cooking.

For added flavor, consider marinating the tofu overnight if time permits. This allows the spices to deeply penetrate the tofu, significantly enhancing the overall taste. Keep in mind that longer marination can intensify the spice levels, so feel free to adjust the amount of jerk seasoning based on your spice tolerance.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

When you heat the skillet for cooking the tofu, aim for a medium-high heat. This temperature is ideal for achieving a golden-brown crust without burning the marinade. Look for visual cues: the edges of the tofu should become golden and slightly crispy, which typically takes about 10 minutes. If the tofu sticks to the skillet, give it more time to sear before flipping; a good sear will naturally release it from the pan.

Adding the vegetables to the same skillet after cooking the tofu not only saves on cleaning but allows you to create a robust flavor profile. The residual oils and spices from the tofu create a delicious base for the vegetables. Sauté the bell pepper and onion until they're tender but still crispy, which generally takes about 5 minutes. For a smokier flavor, consider adding a splash of liquid smoke or a dash of smoked paprika while sautéing the veggies.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh and vibrant ingredients for your Spicy Jamaican Jerk Tofu!

Ingredients

14 oz firm tofu, pressed and drained
2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 red onion, sliced
1 cup pineapple, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Prepare to experience a burst of Caribbean flavors in every bite!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Spicy Jamaican Jerk Tofu!

Marinate the Tofu

In a bowl, combine the jerk seasoning, soy sauce, and olive oil. Cut the tofu into cubes and toss them in the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, preferably in the refrigerator.

Cook the Tofu

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated tofu cubes and cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the sliced bell pepper and red onion. Sauté for 5 minutes until they are tender. Add the cooked tofu back to the skillet to mix the flavors together.

Serve

Top with chopped pineapple and cilantro before serving. Enjoy with rice or in a wrap for a complete meal!

Your Spicy Jamaican Jerk Tofu is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, add more jerk seasoning or a splash of hot sauce. You can also grill the tofu for an added smoky flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Spicy Jamaican Jerk Tofu pairs beautifully with many sides. One of my favorite ways to enjoy it is over a bed of coconut rice, which complements the dish’s bold flavors while adding a creamy texture. Alternatively, wrapping the tofu and veggies in a whole-grain tortilla gives a delightful contrast of textures and makes for a satisfying meal that's easy to take on the go.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a drizzle of mango or avocado salsa on top before serving. The sweetness of the pineapple combined with these garnishes enhances the dish and adds a refreshing contrast that balances the spice.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making the dish even tastier on the second day! To keep the tofu from becoming soggy, store the tofu and vegetables separately if possible.

Reheating is simple. You can microwave the leftovers for 1-2 minutes or return them to a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If you want to revive the crispy texture of the tofu, briefly pan-frying it again will help achieve that delightful crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of tofu?

Yes, you can use extra firm or medium tofu as long as you press it to remove excess moisture.

→ Is jerk seasoning available in stores?

Absolutely! You can find it in most supermarkets or make your own by blending spices like allspice, thyme, and cinnamon.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan since it uses tofu and plant-based ingredients.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.