Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty meal that’s easy to make, the Tofu Sandwich from Love and Lemons is a perfect choice. Packed with flavor from BBQ tofu, fresh slaw, creamy avocado, and tangy dill pickles, this sandwich is not only satisfying but also plant-based. Ideal for lunch or dinner, it’s sure to impress both vegans and meat-eaters alike.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 (14-ounce) package extra-firm tofu
BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Cabbage salad or vegan coleslaw
Mayonnaise (use vegan mayo for a plant-based version)
1 avocado, sliced
Dill pickles
4 brioche buns or regular hamburger buns
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time
20-25 minutes (if baking) / 10 minutes (if grilling)
Total Time
Approximately 60 minutes
Yield
4 sandwiches
Instructions
1. Prepare the BBQ Tofu:
– Press the tofu to remove excess water. This can be done using a tofu press or by placing the tofu between two plates with a weight on top for about 30 minutes.
– Once pressed, cut the tofu into slabs.
– Brush each slab with BBQ sauce.
– Cook the tofu by grilling or baking:
– Grilling: Preheat the grill to medium heat. Place the tofu slabs on the grill and cook for about 5 minutes on each side, brushing with additional BBQ sauce as needed.
– Baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the tofu slabs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through and brushing with additional BBQ sauce.
2. Prepare the Slaw:
– While the tofu is cooking, prepare the cabbage salad or vegan coleslaw.
– Chop the vegetables and mix them with the dressing in a large bowl.
– Set aside to marinate while finishing the tofu.
3. Assemble the Sandwiches:
– Spread mayonnaise on the buns.
– Place the cooked BBQ tofu on the bottom half of each bun.
– Top with the prepared slaw, sliced avocado, and dill pickles.
– Cover with the top half of the bun.
Enjoy your flavorful and hearty tofu sandwich!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the BBQ Tofu
– Press the tofu to remove excess water. This can be done using a tofu press or by placing the tofu between two plates with a weight on top for about 30 minutes.
– Once pressed, cut the tofu into slabs.
– Brush each slab with BBQ sauce.
– Cook the tofu by grilling or baking:
– Grilling: Preheat the grill to medium heat. Place the tofu slabs on the grill and cook for about 5 minutes on each side, brushing with additional BBQ sauce as needed.
– Baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the tofu slabs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through and brushing with additional BBQ sauce.
Prepare the Slaw
– While the tofu is cooking, prepare the cabbage salad or vegan coleslaw.
– Chop the vegetables and mix them with the dressing in a large bowl.
– Set aside to marinate while finishing the tofu.
Assemble the Sandwiches
– Spread mayonnaise on the buns.
– Place the cooked BBQ tofu on the bottom half of each bun.
– Top with the prepared slaw, sliced avocado, and dill pickles.
– Cover with the top half of the bun.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
– Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.
– Pair with sweet potato fries or a side salad for a complete meal.
Storage Tips
– Leftover tofu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
– Assemble sandwiches just before serving to maintain freshness.
Cook techniques
Pressing Tofu
Pressing tofu is essential to remove excess water, ensuring a firmer texture and allowing it to better absorb flavors. Use a tofu press or place it between two plates with a weight for about 30 minutes.
Cooking Tofu
Tofu can be cooked by grilling or baking. For grilling, preheat the grill to medium heat and cook slabs for about 5 minutes on each side. For baking, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the slabs on a parchment-lined sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway and brushing with BBQ sauce.
Making Slaw
Prepare your slaw by chopping your chosen vegetables and mixing them with a dressing in a large bowl. Allow the slaw to marinate to enhance its flavors while the tofu cooks.
Assembling Sandwiches
Spread mayonnaise on the buns and layer with BBQ tofu, prepared slaw, sliced avocado, and dill pickles before covering with the top half of the bun for a complete sandwich.
FAQ
Can I use a different sauce instead of BBQ?
Yes, you can use different sauces like teriyaki, sweet and sour, or any other sauce you prefer to flavor the tofu.
What are some good alternatives to tofu?
If you prefer, you can substitute tofu with tempeh, seitan, or even grilled vegetables for a different texture and flavor profile.
How can I store leftover tofu sandwiches?
You can store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; however, the bun may become soggy.
Can I make the slaw in advance?
Yes, the slaw can be prepared in advance and kept in the refrigerator for a day or two before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make the recipe gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free buns and BBQ sauce.
Conclusion
Savor the delicious combination of BBQ tofu, crunchy slaw, and creamy avocado in this delectable tofu sandwich. Whether you grill or bake the tofu, this recipe offers a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s not just a sandwich; it’s a hearty, flavorful experience that showcases the versatility of plant-based ingredients.
More recipe suggestions and combination
Spicy Tofu Wrap
Use the BBQ tofu in a whole grain wrap with fresh spinach, sliced bell peppers, and a spicy tahini dressing for a zesty twist.
Mediterranean Tofu Burger
Season the tofu with Mediterranean spices and serve it on a whole grain bun topped with hummus, cucumber, and tomato for a refreshing burger option.
Tofu Salad Sandwich
Crumble the cooked BBQ tofu and mix it with avocado, mustard, chopped celery, and onions. Serve on multigrain bread for a protein-packed salad sandwich.
Tofu and Veggie Skewers
Thread BBQ tofu cubes along with bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes on skewers. Grill or bake for a colorful and fun addition to any meal.
Vegan Tofu Caesar Salad
Cube and roast the BBQ tofu, then toss it with romaine lettuce, vegan Caesar dressing, croutons, and nutritional yeast for a hearty salad.
