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BBQ Tofu Marinade & Baked BBQ Tofu Recipe

BBQ Tofu Marinade & Baked BBQ Tofu is a delicious and satisfying plant-based dish that's perfect for BBQ lovers looking for a healthier and vegetarian-friendly option. Tofu, which is a rich source of plant-based protein, absorbs the smoky and tangy flavors of the BBQ marinade, creating a mouthwatering combination that's both nutritious and flavorful. This dish can be enjoyed as a main course or as part of a larger meal, making it versatile for various dining occasions.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Marinating Time 1 hour
Course Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 people
Calories 220 kcal

Equipment

  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
  • Tongs or spatula

Ingredients
  

  • 1 block (14 oz) firm or extra-firm tofu
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tbsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tbsp black pepper
  • chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Tofu

  • Drain the tofu and press it to remove excess moisture. This can be done by wrapping the tofu in paper towels or a clean kitchen towel and placing a heavy object on top for 15-20 minutes.
  • Once pressed, cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes or slices, as preferred.

Make the Marinade

  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, soy sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup (or honey), smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until well combined.

Marinate the Tofu

  • Place the tofu pieces in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag.
  • Pour the marinade over the tofu, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably up to 1 hour for better flavor absorption. You can marinate it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours if desired.

Bake the Tofu

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  • Arrange the marinated tofu pieces on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping the tofu halfway through, until the tofu is caramelized and slightly crispy on the edges.

Serve

  • Remove the tofu from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
  • Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
  • Serve the baked BBQ tofu with your favorite sides such as rice, salad, or steamed vegetables.

Notes

Tips

  • Pressing Tofu: For best results, ensure the tofu is well-pressed to remove excess water, which helps it absorb the marinade better and become crispier when baked.
  • Marinating Time: The longer you marinate the tofu, the more flavorful it will be. Overnight marination can yield the best results.
  • Serving Suggestions: Pair the baked BBQ tofu with a fresh salad, coleslaw, or a side of grilled vegetables for a complete meal. It also works well in sandwiches or wraps.
  • Storage: Leftover tofu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain its texture.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy BBQ Tofu Marinade & Baked BBQ Tofu!