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Crispy BBQ Tofu Sandwich Recipe

Crispy BBQ Tofu Sandwich Recipe
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★★★★★

5.2 from 24 reviews

This Crispy BBQ Tofu Sandwich is a delicious plant-based meal featuring extra firm tofu seared to a golden crisp, coated in tangy BBQ sauce, and complemented by a creamy, tangy cabbage slaw. Served on toasted brioche buns with optional avocado slices, this sandwich balances savory, spicy, and fresh flavors perfect for a satisfying vegan lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Tofu and BBQ Sauce

  • 1 block extra firm organic tofu, drained
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or coconut oil
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black 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
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar (apple cider or white), more to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Sandwich Assembly

  • 2 soft buns (like brioche), toasted
  • Optional: avocado slices

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Tofu: Drain the block of tofu and pat it dry thoroughly. Cut into one-inch-thick slabs, trimming edges if needed 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 salt and pepper into the oil. When the pepper becomes fragrant, carefully place the tofu slabs into the skillet. Avoid moving them so they develop a golden crust, allowing them to release naturally. Cook about 12 minutes, lowering heat if oil splatters.
  3. Prepare the BBQ Sauce Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the BBQ sauce and chili paste or sriracha. Set aside.
  4. Make the Slaw: In a medium bowl, add shredded cabbage, red onion, cilantro, mayo, vinegar, and salt. Toss well to combine. Adjust vinegar, salt, and mayo to your taste to achieve a creamy, tangy flavor.
  5. Toast Buns and Prep Avocado: Toast the buns lightly and slice the avocado if using.
  6. Coat Tofu with BBQ Sauce: Once tofu slabs are crispy, reduce heat to low and pour the BBQ sauce mixture over the tofu, coating it evenly. Let the sauce caramelize slightly in the pan, then turn off the heat.
  7. Assemble the Sandwich: Optionally spread more mayo on the bottom bun. Place the hot BBQ tofu slabs on top, add a generous portion of the creamy slaw, and finish with avocado slices if desired.
  8. Serve: Enjoy immediately while tofu is warm and crispy for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Press tofu well to remove excess water for crispiness.
  • Use a BBQ sauce without high fructose corn syrup or make your own for a healthier option.
  • The slaw can be prepared a bit ahead and kept refrigerated.
  • To make this sandwich gluten free, use gluten-free buns and ensure BBQ sauce and mayo are gluten free.
  • For less spicy, reduce or omit the chili paste or sriracha.
  • Avoocado adds richness but can be messy to eat—optional based on preference.
  • Cooking time may vary depending on skillet type and heat source.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy tofu sandwich, BBQ tofu sandwich, vegan sandwich, plant-based meal, tofu recipe, BBQ tofu, vegan lunch

Find it online: https://cheframiflavor.com/crispy-bbq-tofu-sandwich-recipe/