Description
Smoky BBQ tofu brings zesty Korean-inspired flavors to plant-based grilling with crispy, caramelized edges. Marinated cubes of tofu absorb rich barbecue sauce, creating a mouthwatering dish you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup ketchup
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (look for vegan option if needed)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Herbs and Salt:
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Drain extra-firm tofu and place between paper towels or clean kitchen towels, applying gentle pressure to remove excess moisture for approximately 15-20 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a rimmed baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Cut the pressed tofu into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure consistent cooking and texture.
- Drizzle olive oil over the tofu cubes, then sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper, gently tossing to coat each piece evenly.
- Arrange tofu cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow proper browning and crispiness.
- Roast the seasoned tofu in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, carefully turning the cubes halfway through cooking to achieve golden-brown edges.
- While tofu bakes, prepare the homemade barbecue sauce by combining ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, additional smoked paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper in a saucepan.
- Simmer the sauce over medium-low heat for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens and develops a rich, glossy consistency.
- Remove tofu from the oven and gently toss with the freshly prepared barbecue sauce, ensuring each cube is generously coated.
- Optional: Return sauced tofu to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes to caramelize the sauce and intensify the flavors.
- Serve immediately while hot, garnishing with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for added freshness and visual appeal.
Notes
- Tofu transforms from bland to bold with this simple, flavor-packed method that guarantees crispy, caramelized edges.
- Pressing removes excess moisture, allowing seasonings to deeply penetrate and create a meaty, satisfying texture.
- Homemade BBQ sauce elevates the dish with tangy, smoky notes that complement the tofu’s neutral base.
- Baking twice ensures maximum crispiness and helps the sauce adhere perfectly to each golden cube.
- Versatile recipe works great as a protein-rich main dish, appetizer, or salad topper for quick weeknight meals.
- Optional final bake intensifies flavors and creates irresistible caramelization that’ll make plant-based eating feel indulgent.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Sugar: 40g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg