Smoky BBQ Vegan Tofu Steaks – A Flavorful Plant-Based Meal

Indulge in the savory and robust flavors of Smoky BBQ Vegan Tofu Steaks – a delightful plant-based dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. This recipe transforms simple tofu into a culinary masterpiece, marinating it in a smoky BBQ sauce that infuses the slices with a deliciously charred essence. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan or just looking to add more meatless options to your diet, these tofu steaks will leave your taste buds dancing and your plate empty.

How Long Can Smoky BBQ Vegan Tofu Steaks Be Stored in the Fridge?

Smoky BBQ Vegan Tofu Steaks can be conveniently stored in the fridge, making them an excellent meal prep option. After cooking, allow the tofu steaks to cool to room temperature. Then, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The marinated tofu maintains its flavor and texture remarkably well when properly stored, making it an ideal candidate for preparing in advance. Whether you’re planning for a quick weekday dinner or a weekend barbecue, having these delectable tofu steaks ready in the fridge ensures a hassle-free and delicious plant-based meal anytime you desire.

Special Equipment for Making Smoky BBQ Vegan Tofu Steaks

Creating Smoky BBQ Vegan Tofu Steaks is a straightforward process that doesn’t require any specialized kitchen gadgets. However, to enhance the grilling experience, you might consider using a grill pan or an outdoor grill with grill grates. These tools help create those appealing grill marks and add an authentic smoky flavor to your tofu steaks. If you don’t have access to a grill, a stovetop skillet works perfectly fine too. For best results, ensure your chosen cooking surface is well-heated and lightly greased to prevent sticking. Other than that, basic kitchen utensils like a knife, cutting board, mixing bowl, and a brush for applying the marinade are all you need to craft these delicious vegan delights.

Ideal Serving Size of Smoky BBQ Vegan Tofu Steaks

The perfect serving size for Smoky BBQ Vegan Tofu Steaks typically consists of one tofu steak, which is approximately 1/4 of the block. This portion size provides a satisfying and nutritious meal, delivering around 15 grams of protein along with the delicious smoky barbecue flavors. However, feel free to adjust your serving size according to your appetite and dietary needs. If you’re serving these tofu steaks as part of a larger meal with various side dishes, you might opt for a smaller portion. Conversely, if you’re looking for a heartier main course, consider indulging in more than one serving. This recipe’s flexibility ensures that you can customize your meal to perfectly suit your cravings and requirements.

Smoky BBQ Vegan Tofu Steaks

Recipe by Connor GoodaleCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

45

minutes

Cooking time

10

minutes

Calories

220

kcal

Ingredients

• 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed

• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (choose a vegan-friendly brand)

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons maple syrup or agave nectar

• 1 tablespoon liquid smoke

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

• Begin by slicing the pressed tofu block into 1/2 to 3/4-inch thick steaks. You should get around 4 to 6 steaks, depending on the size of the tofu block.
• In a bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, soy sauce, maple syrup, liquid smoke, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This will create a flavorful marinade.
• Place the tofu steaks in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring each steak is well coated. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and let the tofu marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor.
• Heat a grill pan, outdoor grill, or stovetop skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly grease the surface to prevent sticking.
• Once the grill is hot, carefully place the marinated tofu steaks onto it. Grill each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until you achieve beautiful grill marks and the tofu is heated through.
• While grilling, brush the tofu with any remaining marinade to intensify the flavor and create a caramelized coating.
• Once the tofu steaks are nicely grilled, remove them from the heat and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and the juices to redistribute.
• Serve the Smoky BBQ Vegan Tofu Steaks with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, or a refreshing salad.

Notes

• Opt for High-Quality Tofu: Choosing the right tofu can significantly impact the outcome of your Smoky BBQ Vegan Tofu Steaks. Opt for extra-firm tofu, as it holds its shape well during grilling and absorbs flavors better. Pressing the tofu before marinating removes excess moisture, allowing the marinade to penetrate and infuse the slices with a rich taste. Look for organic or non-GMO tofu for a cleaner and more authentic texture.
• Marinating Time Matters: While a short marinating time of 30 minutes can suffice, consider extending it for even more intense flavors. Overnight marination in the refrigerator allows the tofu to soak up the smoky BBQ sauce, resulting in a more robust and satisfying taste. Remember to turn the tofu steaks occasionally to ensure even marination throughout.
• Enhance the Marinade: Experiment with the marinade by adding ingredients that complement the smoky BBQ flavors. A touch of balsamic vinegar can enhance the tanginess, while a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder can add a subtle kick. Freshly minced garlic and grated ginger can provide aromatic depth to the marinade. Don’t hesitate to personalize the marinade according to your preferences.
• Play with Grilling Techniques: Grilling tofu steaks requires a balance between achieving those desired grill marks and maintaining the tofu’s texture. Consider using a grill pan, outdoor grill, or stovetop skillet, each providing a slightly different charred effect. Preheat the grill well to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. To achieve prominent grill marks, resist the urge to flip the tofu too frequently. A light brush of oil or marinade while grilling helps prevent dryness and boosts the outer layer’s flavor.
• Serve with Creative Accompaniments: Elevate your dining experience by pairing the Smoky BBQ Vegan Tofu Steaks with creative and complementary sides. A quinoa and roasted vegetable salad, sweet potato fries, or even a pineapple salsa can add texture, color, and a variety of flavors to your plate. These sides enhance the overall meal and offer a balanced nutritional profile. Don’t forget to top your tofu steaks with chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or chives for a burst of freshness.