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Crispy BBQ Tofu Sandwich

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.

Featured in Family Dinner Ideas.

Fatiha
Updated on Sun, 05 Jan 2025 01:27:06 GMT
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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 discovered this incredible crispy BBQ tofu sandwich recipe and it's changed our meatless Monday game forever! Think perfectly crispy tofu coated in rich BBQ sauce topped with creamy avocado and a fresh cilantro cabbage slaw. The best part? This amazing vegan sandwich comes together in just 30 minutes. Even my meat-loving friends can't get enough of it it's that good!

These Sandwiches Never Disappoint

  • Ready in a flash perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Uses simple ingredients from your local store.
  • Packs incredible flavors tangy smoky and just a touch of heat.
  • Every bite is perfect crispy tofu meets cool crunchy slaw.
  • That slaw isn't just tasty it's packed with good stuff make extra!
  • Totally vegan friendly.
  • Trust me everyone loves these even tofu skeptics.

Let's Gather Our Ingredients

  • Tofu: Look for firm or extra firm organic tastes best.
  • Oil: Either olive or coconut oil works great.
  • BBQ Sauce: Skip the ones with corn syrup homemade is amazing.
  • Heat Kick: Add sriracha or chili paste if you like it spicy.
  • Cabbage: Green or purple both work pre-cut saves time.
  • Red Onion: Adds such nice zip to the slaw.
  • Fresh Cilantro: Makes everything taste fresh.
  • Vegan Mayo: Regular works too if you're not vegan.
  • Vinegar: Apple cider or white both work great.
  • Seasonings: Don't forget salt and pepper.
  • Buns: Get them soft and ready for toasting.
  • Avocado: Optional but so worth it.

Let's Make These Amazing Sandwiches

  1. Prep Your Tofu: Cut it into thick slabs that'll fit your buns nicely pat them dry really well.
  2. Get That Pan Hot: Heat up your skillet with oil add a good pinch of salt and fresh pepper.
  3. Make It Crispy: Cook those tofu slabs until they're golden brown and super crispy on both sides.
  4. Slaw Time: While your tofu cooks toss together that quick slaw mix cabbage cilantro onion mayo and vinegar give it a taste and adjust seasoning.
  5. BBQ Magic: Mix your BBQ sauce with some spicy sauce brush it all over that crispy tofu let it get a bit sticky in the pan.
  6. Toast Those Buns: Get them nice and golden.
  7. Build Your Masterpiece: Layer everything up slaw BBQ tofu slices avocado if using.

My Best Tips For Success

  • Tofu Trick: Press it for 15 minutes first it gets even crispier.
  • Jazz Up That Slaw: Try adding shredded carrots or a squeeze of lime.
  • Golden Buns: Don't skip toasting them it makes such a difference.
  • Sauce It Up: Keep extra BBQ sauce nearby for dipping.
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

Time To Dig In

You're about to discover your new favorite sandwich! These crispy BBQ tofu sandwiches hit all the right notes quick healthy and so satisfying. Perfect for any meal and ready in just 30 minutes. Once you try them you'll understand why they're always on repeat 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