Spice-Crusted Tofu Delight: Your New Favorite Weeknight Meal
Tired of bland tofu? Get ready to transform your perception with this amazing sheet pan BBQ tofu recipe! This isn't just another tofu dish; it's a flavor explosion that will have you craving more. The secret? A delectable spice crust that perfectly complements the soft, chewy tofu. This dish is not only incredibly easy to make, but it's also a healthy and versatile option for any meal.
Why You'll Love This BBQ Tofu:
- Effortless: This recipe is so simple, it practically cooks itself. Just toss, bake, and enjoy!
- Hands-off Cooking: The sheet pan method means minimal cleanup and more free time.
- Packed with Protein: Tofu is a fantastic source of plant-based protein.
- Vegan Friendly: A perfect choice for vegans and vegetarians alike.
- Versatile: It pairs well with just about anything!
- Meal Prep Savior: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
- Absolutely Delicious: Seriously, it's that good.
The Star of the Show: The Spice Crust
Imagine biting into a piece of tofu that's crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, coated in a rich, smoky spice blend. That's exactly what this recipe delivers. The combination of cornstarch, brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt creates a flavor profile that is both sweet and savory, with a hint of smokiness that mimics traditional BBQ.
How to Serve Your BBQ Tofu
This tofu is incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it in so many different ways! Here are some ideas:
- In Bowls: Pair it with your favorite grains like quinoa or rice, roasted sweet potatoes, zucchini, corn, or green beans.
- On Salads: Add a protein boost to your salads with this flavorful tofu.
- Straight Off the Pan: It's delicious as a snack right after baking.
My personal favorite is a bowl with quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, green beans, and corn. But feel free to get creative and customize it to your liking. Don't forget to top it all with a delicious sauce!
Sauces That Elevate the Experience
- Simple: A drizzle of honey and hot sauce adds a sweet and spicy kick.
- Fancy: Green tahini for a creamy, nutty flavor.
- Classic: A good honey mustard always hits the spot.
- Adventurous: Experiment with your favorite sauces!
Sheet Pan BBQ Tofu Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Yields: 4-6 servings
Ingredients:
- 2 (16-ounce) packages extra firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Press the tofu to remove excess water and cut into cubes.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt.
- Add the tofu cubes to the bowl and gently toss to coat them with the spice mixture.
- Transfer the spiced tofu to a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 30-45 minutes, or until golden brown and slightly crispy.
- While the tofu is baking, prepare your side dishes like grains or roasted vegetables.
- Assemble your bowls or serve as desired, add sauce, and enjoy immediately!
Recipe Notes:
- Meal Prep: The tofu keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Sauté or microwave to reheat it to keep it crispy.
- Bowl Ideas: Try quinoa, rice, roasted sweet potatoes, green beans, corn, zucchini, tomatoes, mushrooms, or spicy coleslaw.
- Sauce Suggestions: Hot sauce, green tahini, honey mustard, or any sauce you prefer.
This sheet pan BBQ tofu is a game-changer. It's easy, delicious, and a great way to incorporate more plant-based protein into your diet. Let me know in the comments what you think! Don't forget to tag me on Instagram when you make this tasty recipe!