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Crispy BBQ Tofu Sandwich Recipe

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4.1 from 3 reviews

This Crispy BBQ Tofu Sandwich offers a delicious, plant-based alternative packed with flavorful seared tofu coated in tangy BBQ sauce, complemented by a creamy, tangy cabbage slaw and optional creamy avocado. Perfectly toasted buns add the ideal texture contrast, making this sandwich a satisfying and healthy meal ready in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Tofu and Cooking

  • 1 block tofu - organic, extra firm, drained
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or coconut oil
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper
  • ¼ cup BBQ sauce (preferably without high fructose corn syrup, or homemade)
  • 1 teaspoon chili paste or sriracha

Slaw

  • 4 ounces shredded cabbage (about 3 cups packed)
  • ¼ cup cilantro, chopped
  • ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 3-4 tablespoons vegan mayo (or regular mayo, or homemade)
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar - apple cider or white vinegar, more to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Assembly

  • 2 soft buns, like brioche buns, toasted
  • Avocado, optional, sliced

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Tofu: Drain the block of tofu and pat it dry thoroughly. Cut into one-inch-thick slabs, trimming if necessary to fit the buns. Pat dry again to remove excess moisture for better crisping.
  2. Sear the Tofu: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the oil. Sprinkle the salt and pepper over the oil. When the pepper becomes fragrant, carefully place the tofu pieces in the skillet without moving them. Allow tofu to sear undisturbed for about 12 minutes until it develops a deep golden, crispy crust. Adjust the heat to prevent splattering as needed.
  3. Mix the BBQ Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the BBQ sauce with the chili paste or sriracha. Set aside.
  4. Prepare the Slaw: In a medium bowl, toss together the shredded cabbage, red onion, cilantro, mayo, vinegar, and salt. Adjust vinegar, mayo, and salt to taste until creamy, tangy, and flavorful.
  5. Toast Buns and Slice Avocado: Toast the buns to your preference and slice the avocado if using.
  6. Coat Tofu with BBQ Sauce: Once tofu is crispy, lower the heat to low, pour the BBQ sauce mixture over the tofu, and stir gently to coat well. Allow the sauce to slightly caramelize on the tofu. Turn off the heat once glazed.
  7. Assemble the Sandwich: Spread additional mayo on the bottom bun if desired, place the hot BBQ tofu slabs on top, followed by a generous helping of the cool cabbage slaw and slices of avocado.
  8. Serve: Enjoy the sandwich immediately while the tofu is warm and crispy.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, pressing the tofu for at least 30 minutes before cooking helps remove excess moisture.
  • Use a BBQ sauce without high fructose corn syrup or make your own for a healthier option.
  • The slaw can be adjusted by adding more vinegar or mayo to suit your taste preferences.
  • Avocado is optional but adds creaminess and richness to balance the BBQ flavors.
  • Serve immediately for best texture; tofu can lose crispiness if left to sit.