Barbecued Tofu

Delicious Barbecued Tofu Recipe from USA - Vegetarian Dish

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 1 hour 45 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Barbecued Tofu is a delightful twist on traditional barbecue dishes, offering a plant-based alternative that doesn't skimp on flavor. This recipe transforms the humble tofu into a savory, mouth-watering dish that can easily become the star of any meal. Perfect for vegans, vegetarians, and meat-eaters alike, this barbecued tofu is sure to impress with its rich, smoky flavors and satisfying texture.

History

The concept of barbecuing tofu is a relatively modern invention, emerging as vegetarian and vegan diets gained popularity in the Western world. Tofu itself has been a staple in Asian cuisines for centuries, prized for its versatility and nutritional content. The adaptation of tofu into a barbecued form is a testament to its ability to absorb flavors and offer a meat-like texture, making it an ideal candidate for the smoky, complex flavors of barbecue.

Ingredients

1 tbsp Bragg's Liquid Aminos
0.25 cup fresh lemon juice
2 lb (907 g) extra-firm or firm tofu, cut into 3 x 1 inch slabs, frozen, thawed and squeezed dry
Marinade
0.33 cup peanut butter
0.33 cup vegetable oil
1.5 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt
0.5 tsp garlic powder
barbecue sauce
1 cup canned tomato sauce
0.5 medium onion, chopped
0.5 cup brown sugar or honey
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
1.5 tsp molasses
0.5 tsp salt
0.5 tsp ground allspice
0.13 tsp cayenne

How to prepare

Lightly coat a baking sheet with sides with nonstick cooking spray. Place tofu slabs on the prepared sheet.
In a blender, mix the marinade ingredients until smooth. Spoon the marinade over the tofu slabs; turn to coat and marinate for 1 hour.
Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, mix the tomato sauce, onion, brown sugar, parsley, molasses, salt, allspice, and cayenne. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to low, and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 1 hour. Stir in the lemon juice and liquid aminos.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Bake the tofu for 25 minutes per side. Brush barbecue sauce over both sides of the baked tofu and bake until hot, for 15 to 20 minutes more.

Variations

For a spicier version, add more cayenne pepper to the barbecue sauce. You can also experiment with different nut butters in the marinade or add smoked paprika for an extra smoky flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To achieve the best results with barbecued tofu, it's crucial to start with extra-firm or firm tofu, which holds up better during cooking. Freezing and then thawing the tofu before use can enhance its texture, making it more porous and better at absorbing the marinade. Be sure to squeeze out as much water as possible to ensure the tofu can soak up all the flavorful marinade and barbecue sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the barbecued tofu with a side of coleslaw, grilled vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It also pairs wonderfully with corn on the cob or baked beans for a classic barbecue spread.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the tofu allows for a firm, chewy texture, but for an added char and smokiness, consider finishing the tofu on a grill for the last few minutes of cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a nut-free version, substitute tahini or sunflower seed butter for the peanut butter. Maple syrup or agave nectar can replace honey for a vegan option.

Make Ahead Tips

The tofu can be marinated overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor. The barbecue sauce can also be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a week.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the barbecued tofu on a platter garnished with lemon wedges and fresh parsley. For a rustic look, present it on a wooden cutting board.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp beer or a glass of chilled white wine complements the flavors of the barbecued tofu perfectly. For a non-alcoholic option, try a lemonade or iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover barbecued tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stove for best results, adding a little extra barbecue sauce to keep it moist.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of barbecued tofu contains approximately 250-300 calories, making it a satisfying yet calorie-conscious option for any meal.

Carbohydrates

This barbecued tofu recipe is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being the honey and tomato sauce in the barbecue sauce. Each serving contains approximately 15-20 grams of carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those monitoring their carb intake.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come mainly from the peanut butter and vegetable oil used in the marinade. These ingredients contribute to the dish's overall richness and mouthfeel. Each serving contains about 10-15 grams of fat, with a balance of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.

Proteins

Tofu is an excellent source of plant-based protein, making this dish a fantastic option for vegetarians and vegans looking to boost their protein intake. Each serving of barbecued tofu provides approximately 20-25 grams of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

Tofu is rich in a variety of vitamins and minerals, including calcium, iron, magnesium, and zinc. The addition of fresh parsley and lemon juice in the barbecue sauce also contributes vitamin C and additional antioxidants to the dish.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this recipe are soy (from the tofu) and peanuts (from the peanut butter). Those with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this dish or find suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, barbecued tofu is a nutritious, protein-rich dish that offers a good balance of fats, vitamins, and minerals. It's a healthful option that doesn't sacrifice flavor or satisfaction.

Summary

Barbecued Tofu is a versatile, delicious dish that brings a plant-based twist to traditional barbecue fare. With its rich flavors, nutritional benefits, and satisfying texture, it's a recipe that's sure to become a favorite for all types of eaters. Whether you're a long-time tofu lover or new to cooking with it, this recipe offers an excellent way to enjoy the many benefits of this versatile ingredient.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I discovered this recipe is a cherished memory that I will always hold close to my heart. It was a warm summer day, the sun was shining brightly, and the smell of barbecue filled the air. I was visiting my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins, who was known for her delicious barbecue dishes. As we sat in her backyard, enjoying the sunshine and good company, she surprised me with a new recipe she had been working on - Barbecued Tofu.

Mrs. Jenkins had always been an adventurous cook, constantly experimenting with new flavors and ingredients. She explained to me that she had been inspired to create a vegetarian version of her famous barbecue dish after her son became a vegan. She had been perfecting the recipe for weeks and was excited to share it with me.

As she prepared the dish, I watched in awe as she transformed simple tofu into a mouthwatering barbecue masterpiece. She marinated the tofu in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and spices, then grilled it to perfection, basting it with a tangy barbecue sauce. The tofu absorbed the flavors beautifully, becoming tender and flavorful with a smoky charred exterior.

I eagerly took a bite of the Barbecued Tofu, and I was instantly hooked. The combination of the savory tofu and the sweet and tangy barbecue sauce was truly a match made in heaven. I couldn't believe that something so simple could be so delicious.

Mrs. Jenkins smiled as she watched me enjoy the dish. She explained that she had learned the recipe from a vegan chef she had met at a cooking class. The chef had taught her the importance of marinating tofu to infuse it with flavor and grilling it to create a deliciously crispy texture.

I was amazed by the versatility of tofu and how it could be transformed into a flavorful and satisfying meal. Mrs. Jenkins shared with me the recipe for the Barbecued Tofu, and I knew that I had to recreate it at home.

From that day on, Barbecued Tofu became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I would make it for family gatherings, potlucks, and dinner parties, and it always received rave reviews. Everyone was impressed by the bold flavors and tender texture of the tofu, and many couldn't believe that it was a vegan dish.

Over the years, I have made some tweaks to the original recipe, adding my own spin on it. I experimented with different marinades, sauces, and grilling techniques, always striving to perfect the dish. I discovered that adding a touch of liquid smoke to the marinade gave the tofu an extra smoky flavor, reminiscent of traditional barbecue dishes.

As I continued to make Barbecued Tofu, I shared the recipe with friends and family, spreading the joy of this delicious and nutritious dish. I loved seeing their faces light up as they took their first bite, just as mine had when Mrs. Jenkins first introduced me to it.

To this day, whenever I make Barbecued Tofu, I think back to that warm summer day in Mrs. Jenkins' backyard, where I first discovered this beloved recipe. I am grateful for her inspiration and mentorship, and I will always cherish the memories of learning to make this delicious dish.