Do you need to press tofu for BBQ tofu?

You don't need to press super-firm tofu. Simply drain it and pat it dry with paper towels. If you're using extra-firm tofu, press it for about 20 to 30 minutes, then pat it dry. Pressing removes excess moisture, which helps extra-firm tofu become firmer as it bakes and allows it to soak up the tamari more quickly.

What type of tofu is best for BBQ baked tofu?

Super-firm tofu works best because it holds its shape well and contains less moisture. Extra-firm tofu also works after pressing, but it’s more fragile than super-firm. Firm and silken tofu are not recommended because they contain more moisture and are more delicate.

Should I tear or cut the tofu?

Either method works, but tearing the tofu creates irregular edges that hold onto the seasonings and BBQ sauce particularly well.

Can I use any BBQ sauce?

Yes, use your favorite vegan BBQ sauce. Thicker sauces can usually be tossed directly with the tofu on the baking sheet. If your BBQ sauce is thin, toss it with the baked tofu in a bowl before returning everything to the baking sheet for the final 3 to 5 minutes.

Easy BBQ Tofu - Three Little Chickpeas

Description

This easy BBQ tofu is smoky, savory, and oil-free. Bake super-firm tofu until golden, then coat in barbecue sauce for an easy vegan meal.

Ingredients

Scale

1 16-ounce (454 grams) block super-firm tofu, drained
1 1/2 tablespoons tamari or low-sodium soy sauce
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
1/2 cup (144 grams) BBQ sauce

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Drain the tofu and pat it dry with paper towels. Using your hands, tear the tofu into bite-sized pieces and add them to a large bowl.
Add the tamari (or soy sauce) and gently toss to coat.
Sprinkle the chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt over the tofu. Gently toss until evenly coated.
Spread the tofu in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between the pieces.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until lightly golden around the edges but still soft.
Add the BBQ sauce to the tofu on the tray and gently toss to coat (alternatively, add the tofu to a bowl, toss with the BBQ sauce, then add the tofu back to the baking tray). Bake for another 3 to 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly but the tofu is still saucy.

Notes

If you want to substitute with extra-firm tofu, it will need to be pressed for 20-30 minutes and then patted with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Firm tofu doesn't work well for this recipe, and don't use silken tofu.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American