Baked BBQ Tofu

This baked BBQ tofu can make anyone fall in love with tofu! Crispy on the outside, chewy, spicy, it’s the ideal add-in to salads, sandwiches and meal prep boxes. Gluten-free, oil-free, super easy. 

How’s everyone doing?! I’m happy that it finally stays sunny for longer than around two hours here in the UK. It never feels like spring until the end of April, but when it does – that’s the moment everyone loves.

 

I’ve been cooking up a storm and finding new ways to cook familiar ingredients. Or even perfecting old techniques. Cooking is a constant learning experience, even if you do it every day for hours, and that’s what I love about it. No learning = stagnation and boredom.

Baked BBQ tofu

But I won’t ramble for much longer, because I’m pretty sure we’re all here to talk about tofu. Or maybe not, if you’re currently a tofu hater. I’m sure, however, that by the end of this post, I’ll convince you to try the recipe!

You’ve probably gone to restaurants before, ate tofu, and couldn’t believe that it’s possible to make tofu taste that good. It is possible and very easy too, and I’m here to talk you through the process. We’re making crispy, chewy, flavourful and moreish BBQ tofu with a hint of spice, the right amount of saltiness, and just all-round YUM.

I love BBQ flavours, and you’ll be glad to know that this marinade requires NO store-brought BBQ sauce which is full of needless sugar, salt and strange ingredients. Baking tofu is my favourite preparation method because it absorbs flavours really well, and it’s also healthier than frying.

Tips to make baked tofu taste good

It’s not a mystery that tofu by itself is pretty bland. The texture is also off-putting to many people – but I would never recommend eating plain tofu to anyone! There are certain tips you need to keep in mind to make incredible tofu every time:

1. Press the tofu if necessary! You may not need to do this if using extra firm tofu, which is my usual go-to variety. But if using normal firm tofu, cover it with a paper towel and put something heavy on top of it for around 30 minutes to get rid of the liquid.
2. Sauces/marinades are your BFFLs. This is a pretty straight-forward point, but a good sauce or marinade is THE thing that will take your tofu to the next level. Experiment with different flavours and ingredients to discover your personal favourite.
3. The longer you marinade it, the better. At least 30 minutes, but overnight is even better.
4. Don’t use too much sauce. This will cause soggy tofu – a big no-no. A thin layer on each piece is ideal. But, you can use any leftovers as a sauce.
5. Make the pieces around 1/3-1/2 inch in thickness. This will allow them to absorb enough flavour all the way through without burning.

BBQ tofu ingredients

• Rice vinegar. Apple cider vinegar works well too.
• Tamari. You can use soy sauce if not avoiding gluten, or coconut aminos for a soy-free version.
• Maple syrup. This is ideal for creating that subtly sweet BBQ flavour.
• Hot sauce. Adjust how much you use depending on your preferences.
• Brown rice miso paste. This adds a hint of umami.
• Garlic. Duh.
• Tofu! As I said, I use extra firm tofu, but you can use normal firm as long as you press it beforehand. Silken tofu doesn’t. work for this recipe.

How to do it!

STEP 1: Stir together the marinade ingredients: rice vinegar, tamari, maple syrup, hot sauce, brown rice miso and garlic.

STEP 2: Add tofu slabs to a rectangular container and pour over the marinade. Leave in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, but a few hours/overnight is ideal for the most flavour. Around 10 minutes before its done marinading, preheat the oven to 200 degrees C/400 F.

STEP 3: Lay out the tofu on a sheet of baking paper. Bake for 15 minutes, flipping half way through. Serve either hot or cold.

Baked tofu serving suggestions

• Add it as a filling protein to any salad of your choice.
• Serve it as a delicious filling for wraps and sandwiches.
• Eat it by itself as a snack!
• Dice it into finer pieces and stir into pasta dishes.
• Use it as a topping for pizza.

Looking for more tofu recipes? Here are some of my favourites!

• Lasagna with tofu
• Simple tofu curry
• Sheet pan potatoes and tofu
• Cold spaghetti salad with balsamic tofu
• Sweet and sour tofu

Let me know in the comments: what’s your favourite way to cook tofu? If you give this flavourful baked BBQ tofu a go, be sure to tag me on Instagram (@earthofmariaa) so I can see your creations, and leave your feedback in the comments below.