Barbecue Pork Recipe

Tofu: Extra firm tofu is essential for grilling as it holds its shape and absorbs flavors well.

Barbecue sauce: This adds a smoky, tangy flavor to the tofu, making it taste like traditional barbecue.

Olive oil: Used to coat the tofu and help the spices adhere, also prevents sticking on the grill.

Garlic powder: Adds a robust, savory flavor to the tofu.

Onion powder: Enhances the overall flavor profile with a hint of sweetness and depth.

Smoked paprika: Provides a smoky, slightly spicy flavor that complements the barbecue sauce.

Salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and complexity to the tofu.

To achieve the best texture for your tofu, make sure to press and drain it thoroughly before marinating. This removes excess water, allowing the tofu to absorb more of the olive oil mixture and barbecue sauce. Use a tofu press or place the tofu between two plates with a heavy object on top for at least 30 minutes.

• extra firm tofu - Substitute with tempeh: Tempeh has a firm texture and absorbs marinades well, making it a great alternative for a hearty, protein-rich base.

• barbecue sauce - Substitute with homemade barbecue sauce: Creating your own barbecue sauce allows you to control the ingredients and ensure it remains vegan-friendly.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and neutral flavor, making it a suitable replacement for olive oil in cooking.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh minced garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides a more intense and aromatic flavor compared to garlic powder.

• onion powder - Substitute with finely chopped onions: Finely chopped onions can add a fresh and robust onion flavor to the dish.

• smoked paprika - Substitute with liquid smoke: Liquid smoke can impart a similar smoky flavor to the dish, enhancing the barbecue taste.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory umami flavor while also providing the necessary saltiness.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a slightly different but still peppery flavor, and it blends well in recipes without altering the appearance.

• Allow the tofu to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the barbecue tofu soggy.
• Place the cooled barbecue tofu slices in an airtight container. If stacking slices, separate each layer with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. The barbecue tofu will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the barbecue tofu. Lay the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. This prevents the slices from sticking together.
• Once frozen, transfer the barbecue tofu slices to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date for easy tracking.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the barbecue tofu in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on the grill, in a skillet, or in the oven until warmed through.
• For best results, brush with additional barbecue sauce before reheating to enhance the flavor and moisture.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover tofu slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with aluminum foil to retain moisture. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. For a crispy exterior, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to the pan. Place the tofu slices in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until heated through and slightly crispy.

• Microwave Method: Place the tofu slices on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to prevent drying out. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the tofu rubbery.

• Grill Method: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the tofu slices on the grill and heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until warmed through. This method will help maintain the original barbecue sauce flavor and texture.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the tofu slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating. This method will give you a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.

• Grill: Essential for cooking the tofu slices to achieve those perfect grill marks and smoky flavor.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

• Brush: Necessary for applying the olive oil mixture and barbecue sauce evenly onto the tofu slices.

• Knife: Required to cut the tofu into thick slices.

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for slicing the tofu.

• Tongs: Handy for flipping the tofu slices on the grill without breaking them.

• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurement of the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

• Plate: Used to rest the tofu slices after grilling before serving.

Press the tofu ahead: Press and drain the tofu the night before to save time on prep day.

Pre-mix the spices: Combine the garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika in advance and store in an airtight container.

Use a grill pan: If you don't have a grill, use a grill pan on the stove to achieve similar results.

Batch cook: Grill extra tofu slices and store them in the fridge for quick meals throughout the week.

Marinate overnight: Let the tofu marinate in the barbecue sauce overnight for deeper flavor and quicker cooking.