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BBQ Tofu Sandwich

Featured in Family Dinner Ideas.

This vegan sandwich features crispy pan-seared tofu glazed with spicy BBQ sauce, topped with a creamy cilantro cabbage slaw and avocado. A delicious plant-based alternative that comes together in just 30 minutes.

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Fatiha
Updated on Sun, 11 May 2025 20:57:35 GMT
A grilled tofu sandwich topped with coleslaw, barbecue sauce, and slices of avocado, served on a glossy bun. Pin it
A grilled tofu sandwich topped with coleslaw, barbecue sauce, and slices of avocado, served on a glossy bun. | zestplate.com

I stumbled upon this mind-blowing crispy BBQ tofu sandwich and it's totally transformed our meatless Monday routine! Imagine crunchy tofu slathered in smoky BBQ sauce topped with buttery avocado and tangy cilantro-cabbage slaw. What's better? This knockout vegan sandwich is ready in only 30 minutes. My carnivore pals keep asking for seconds – it's seriously that tasty!

Irresistible Sandwiches Everyone Craves

  • That slaw isn't just yummy it's loaded with nutrients make a big batch!
  • Every mouthful is balanced crunchy tofu and cool refreshing slaw.
  • Brings amazing flavors smoky tangy with a hint of spice.
  • Comes together quickly perfect for hectic evenings.
  • Uses everyday ingredients found at any grocery store.
  • Completely vegan-approved.
  • Even tofu doubters fall in love with these trust me.

Simple Ingredients You'll Need

  • Avocado: Really makes it special but you can skip it.
  • Buns: Grab soft ones they'll get toasted later.
  • Seasonings: Salt and pepper are must-haves.
  • Vinegar: White or apple cider both do the job.
  • Vegan Mayo: Not vegan? Regular mayo works too.
  • Fresh Cilantro: Gives everything a bright pop.
  • Red Onion: Brings a lovely tang to your slaw.
  • Cabbage: Purple or green works buy pre-shredded to save time.
  • Heat Kick: Try chili paste or sriracha if you want spice.
  • BBQ Sauce: Look for ones without corn syrup homemade is fantastic.
  • Oil: Coconut or olive oil both turn out great.
  • Tofu: Extra firm or firm organic tastes better.

How To Make BBQ Tofu Sandwiches

  1. Build Your Masterpiece: Stack everything up avocado BBQ tofu slices and plenty of slaw.
  2. Toast Those Buns: Get them golden and warm.
  3. BBQ Magic: Stir your BBQ sauce with hot sauce coat the crispy tofu let it get sticky in the skillet.
  4. Slaw Time: As tofu cooks mix cabbage onion cilantro mayo and vinegar season to taste.
  5. Make It Crispy: Cook tofu slabs until golden and super crunchy on each side.
  6. Get That Pan Hot: Warm your skillet with oil sprinkle in salt and fresh pepper.
  7. Prep Your Tofu: Slice into thick pieces that match your bun size dry them thoroughly.

Secrets For The Best Results

  • Sauce It Up: Have extra BBQ sauce on the side for dunking.
  • Golden Buns: Always toast them it adds amazing texture.
  • Jazz Up That Slaw: Throw in some shredded carrots or a splash of lime juice.
  • Tofu Trick: Squeeze it for 15 minutes beforehand for ultimate crispiness.
Two burgers with a breaded protein patty, topped with coleslaw and barbecue sauce, served with a side of avocado. Pin it
Two burgers with a breaded protein patty, topped with coleslaw and barbecue sauce, served with a side of avocado. | zestplate.com

Mouthwatering Mealtime Awaits

Get ready to meet your next favorite sandwich! These crispy BBQ tofu creations nail everything you want quick healthy and crazy delicious. They're ready in half an hour and perfect any time of day. Make them once and you'll see why they're always on rotation in my kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I get my tofu really crispy?

Pat tofu very dry and don't move it while cooking. Let it develop a golden crust before flipping. Use medium-high heat and enough oil.

→ Can I make the slaw ahead?

Yes, prepare slaw up to 24 hours ahead and store in fridge. It actually tastes better as flavors meld together.

→ Why use extra firm tofu?

Extra firm tofu holds its shape better when cooking and gets crispier. Softer varieties may fall apart during cooking.

→ Is there a gluten-free option?

Simply serve on gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. Just check that your BBQ sauce is also gluten-free.

→ Why add chili paste to BBQ sauce?

Chili paste adds depth and heat to balance the BBQ sauce's sweetness. Adjust amount to your spice preference.

BBQ Tofu Sandwich

Create a satisfying vegan sandwich with crispy BBQ tofu, cool cilantro slaw, and creamy avocado. Ready in just 30 minutes.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
15 Minutes
Total Time
30 Minutes
By: Fatiha

Category: Main Dishes

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 2 Servings (2)

Dietary: Vegan, Vegetarian, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

01 1 block extra firm tofu, drained.
02 2 tablespoons olive oil or coconut oil.
03 1/4 teaspoon salt.
04 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
05 1/4 cup BBQ sauce.
06 1 teaspoon chili paste or sriracha.
07 2 soft buns, toasted.
08 1 avocado (optional).
09 4 oz shredded cabbage (3 cups packed).
10 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped.
11 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced.
12 3-4 tablespoons vegan mayo.
13 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar.
14 1/4 teaspoon salt.

Instructions

Step 01

Begin by thoroughly draining tofu and cutting into one-inch thick slabs that will fit your buns perfectly.

Step 02

Heat your skillet to medium-high, add oil and season with salt and pepper until fragrant.

Step 03

Carefully place tofu slabs in hot oil and let them develop a golden crust without moving them around.

Step 04

While tofu cooks, combine BBQ sauce and chili paste in a small bowl until well mixed.

Step 05

In another bowl, toss cabbage, onions, cilantro, mayo, vinegar, and salt to make the creamy slaw.

Step 06

Toast your buns until golden while watching your tofu cook to deep golden brown, about 12 minutes.

Step 07

Once tofu is crispy, reduce heat and coat with BBQ sauce mixture, letting it caramelize slightly.

Step 08

Layer your toasted buns with extra mayo if desired, add the hot BBQ tofu slices.

Step 09

Top generously with the cool, creamy slaw mixture for temperature and texture contrast.

Step 10

Add fresh avocado slices if using, and serve immediately while tofu is still crispy.

Notes

  1. Vegan friendly.
  2. Can use gluten-free buns.
  3. Best served immediately.
  4. Customize heat level.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large skillet.
  • Mixing bowls.
  • Sharp knife.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Soy (tofu).
  • Wheat (buns).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 527
  • Total Fat: 30.6 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 43.2 g
  • Protein: 21.6 g