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Easy BBQ Tofu Recipe

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Easy BBQ Tofu is a crispy and flavorful plant-based dish featuring extra-firm tofu coated in a smoky, tangy barbecue glaze. Perfect for bowls, sandwiches, salads, or as a main course, this protein-packed recipe is simple, versatile, and satisfying.

Ingredients

  • 1 block (14 ounces) extra-firm tofu
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Green onions, sliced (optional)
  • Sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

  1. Press the tofu for at least 20 minutes to remove excess moisture.
  2. Cut the tofu into cubes, strips, or bite-sized pieces.
  3. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) or an air fryer to 400°F (204°C).
  4. In a large bowl, toss the tofu with olive oil.
  5. Add the cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  6. Toss until the tofu is evenly coated.
  7. Arrange the tofu in a single layer on a baking sheet or in the air fryer basket.
  8. Bake for 25–30 minutes or air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking.
  9. While the tofu cooks, whisk together the barbecue sauce, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika.
  10. Transfer the crispy tofu to a bowl.
  11. Pour the BBQ sauce over the tofu and toss gently to coat.
  12. For extra caramelization, return the coated tofu to the oven for 5 minutes or air fryer for 2–3 minutes.
  13. Garnish with parsley, green onions, or sesame seeds if desired.
  14. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Pressing the tofu thoroughly helps achieve the crispiest texture.
  • Use your favorite store-bought barbecue sauce or homemade BBQ sauce.
  • Add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or chipotle powder for a spicier version.
  • Serve on sandwich buns with coleslaw and pickles for a BBQ tofu sandwich.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat in an oven or air fryer to help restore crispness.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/easy-bbq-tofu-recipe/