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Tasty BBQ Tofu Sandwich

Featured in: Wholesome Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal

This vegan treat packs pan-seared crunchy tofu coated in zesty BBQ sauce, topped with tangy cilantro cabbage mix and sliced avocado. A mouthwatering meat-free option that's ready to eat in only 30 minutes.

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Updated on Thu, 24 Apr 2025 16:58:02 GMT
A grilled tofu sandwich topped with coleslaw, barbecue sauce, and slices of avocado, served on a glossy bun. Pin it
A grilled tofu sandwich topped with coleslaw, barbecue sauce, and slices of avocado, served on a glossy bun. | cookingkitchn.com

I stumbled upon this amazing crunchy BBQ tofu sandwich and it's totally transformed the way we do meat-free Mondays! Picture super crunchy tofu smothered in sweet-smoky BBQ sauce, topped with buttery avocado and tangy cabbage-cilantro slaw. The coolest thing? This knockout vegan sandwich takes just half an hour to throw together. My carnivore pals keep asking for seconds – it's seriously that tasty!

These Handheld Delights Always Deliver

  • Whipped up quick - perfect when you're short on time.
  • Made with everyday items found at any grocery store.
  • Delivers knockout flavor combos - sweet, smoky with a hint of spice.
  • Each mouthful is balanced - crunchy tofu meets refreshing slaw.
  • The slaw isn't just yummy, it's nutritious too - why not make a double batch!
  • Completely plant-based friendly.
  • Believe me, everybody gobbles these up, even tofu doubters.

Let's Round Up Our Supplies

  • Tofu: Go for firm or extra firm, try organic for better flavor.
  • Oil: Coconut or olive both do the trick.
  • BBQ Sauce: Avoid ones with corn syrup, making your own is fantastic.
  • Spicy Addition: Throw in chili paste or sriracha if you want heat.
  • Cabbage: Purple or green works fine, buy pre-shredded to save time.
  • Red Onion: Gives wonderful tang to your slaw.
  • Fresh Cilantro: Adds that garden-fresh flavor.
  • Vegan Mayo: Standard mayo works too if you're not plant-based.
  • Vinegar: White or apple cider both hit the spot.
  • Seasonings: Remember your salt and pepper.
  • Buns: Pick soft ones ready for toasting.
  • Avocado: Not required but definitely recommended.

Let's Whip Up These Fantastic Sandwiches

  1. Sort Your Tofu: Slice into thick pieces that'll match your bun size, then dry them thoroughly.
  2. Fire Up Your Skillet: Warm that oil, sprinkle in salt and fresh pepper.
  3. Create That Crunch: Fry tofu pieces until they turn golden and crispy on each side.
  4. Tackle The Slaw: As tofu cooks, throw together cabbage, onion, cilantro, mayo and vinegar, then taste and tweak seasonings.
  5. BBQ Treatment: Combine BBQ sauce with hot sauce, paint it over your crispy tofu, let it bubble a bit in the pan.
  6. Brown Those Buns: Get them toasty and warm.
  7. Stack Everything Up: Put it all together - slaw, BBQ tofu chunks, avocado if you want it.

My Top Tricks For Perfect Results

  • Tofu Secret: Squish it for 15 minutes beforehand for extra crispiness.
  • Pump Up Your Slaw: Consider adding grated carrots or a splash of lime juice.
  • Crispy Buns: Always toast them - it makes the whole sandwich better.
  • Extra Goodness: Have some BBQ sauce on the side for dunking.
Two burgers with a breaded protein patty, topped with coleslaw and barbecue sauce, served with a side of avocado. Pin it
Two burgers with a breaded protein patty, topped with coleslaw and barbecue sauce, served with a side of avocado. | cookingkitchn.com

Ready To Munch Away

You're gonna fall in love with your next favorite sandwich! These crunchy BBQ tofu creations tick every box - fast, wholesome and incredibly filling. Ready in just 30 minutes and perfect anytime. Once you've had a bite, you'll get why they're always on my weekly menu.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I get my tofu really crispy?

Dry your tofu completely and let it cook without stirring. Wait for a nice golden surface before turning. Use enough oil with medium-high temperature.

→ Can I make the slaw ahead?

You can make the slaw a day before and keep it cool in your fridge. It gets even tastier as the flavors blend overnight.

→ Why use extra firm tofu?

The extra firm type keeps its shape while cooking and gets crunchier. Softer kinds might break apart when you're cooking them.

→ Is there a gluten-free option?

Just use gluten-free buns or wrap in lettuce leaves instead. Make sure your BBQ sauce doesn't contain gluten too.

→ Why add chili paste to BBQ sauce?

The chili paste brings richness and kick that works well with the sweet BBQ flavor. You can add more or less based on how spicy you want it.

Spicy Tofu BBQ Bun

Enjoy this filling vegan sandwich featuring crunchy BBQ tofu, fresh cilantro slaw, and buttery avocado. Done in just 30 minutes.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
15 Minutes
Total Time
30 Minutes
By: Sophia

Category: Vegetarian Picks

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 2 Servings (2)

Dietary: Vegan, Vegetarian, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

01 1 block extra firm tofu, drained and patted dry.
02 2 tablespoons coconut oil or olive oil.
03 1/4 teaspoon sea salt.
04 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper.
05 1/4 cup smoky BBQ sauce.
06 1 teaspoon hot sauce or chili paste.
07 2 soft burger buns, lightly toasted.
08 1 ripe avocado (if you want).
09 4 oz finely cut cabbage (3 cups tightly packed).
10 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped.
11 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion.
12 3-4 tablespoons plant-based mayo.
13 1 tablespoon tangy apple cider vinegar.
14 1/4 teaspoon table salt.

Instructions

Step 01

Drain your tofu completely and cut it into thick one-inch slices that'll match your bun size perfectly.

Step 02

Get your pan nice and hot at medium-high, dump in the oil and toss in salt and pepper til it smells good.

Step 03

Drop those tofu pieces into the hot oil and let them sit untouched until they form a nice golden crust.

Step 04

As your tofu sizzles away, mix your BBQ sauce with the hot sauce in a little cup until smooth.

Step 05

Throw cabbage, red onions, cilantro, mayo, vinegar, and salt together in a bowl for a tasty crunchy slaw.

Step 06

Brown your buns while keeping an eye on the tofu as it cooks to a deep golden color, about 12 minutes total.

Step 07

When tofu gets crispy edges, turn down the heat and brush with your spicy BBQ mix, letting it bubble a bit.

Step 08

Slather some extra mayo on your warm buns if you're feeling fancy, then put those hot BBQ tofu slabs on.

Step 09

Pile that cold, creamy slaw on top to create an awesome hot-cold combo that really works.

Step 10

If you're using avocado, add those slices now and eat right away while everything's still at its best.

Notes

  1. Totally plant-based.
  2. Works with no-gluten buns too.
  3. Eat straight away for best texture.
  4. Spice level can be adjusted.

Tools You'll Need

  • Heavy bottom skillet.
  • Small mixing bowls.
  • Good cutting knife.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Soy in the tofu.
  • Wheat from the buns.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 527
  • Total Fat: 30.6 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 43.2 g
  • Protein: 21.6 g