BBQ Country Style Ribs Recipe

Extra-firm tofu: A dense and sturdy type of tofu that holds up well during cooking, providing a meat-like texture.

BBQ sauce: A tangy and smoky sauce that adds rich flavor to the tofu.

Olive oil: Used to coat the tofu, helping it to crisp up in the oven.

Smoked paprika: Adds a smoky depth of flavor that enhances the BBQ taste.

Garlic powder: Provides a savory, aromatic element to the seasoning mix.

When pressing tofu, use a tofu press or place it between two plates with a heavy object on top to ensure maximum water removal. This step is crucial for achieving a firmer texture that will better absorb the bbq sauce and spices.

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

• bbq sauce - Substitute with homemade bbq sauce: You can control the ingredients and ensure it remains vegan by making your own sauce with tomato paste, vinegar, and spices.

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

• smoked paprika - Substitute with liquid smoke: Liquid smoke can provide a similar smoky flavor, but use sparingly as it is quite potent.

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

• Allow the tofu ribs to cool completely before storing. This helps to prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Place the cooled tofu ribs in an airtight container. If you have multiple layers, separate them with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. The tofu ribs will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days.
• For longer storage, you can freeze the tofu ribs. Wrap each rib individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Place the wrapped ribs in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the tofu ribs in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat the ribs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Brush with additional bbq sauce if desired to enhance flavor and moisture.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover tofu ribs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Cover the tofu ribs with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out.
  4. Heat for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
  5. Optionally, brush with additional bbq sauce before serving for extra flavor.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil to the skillet.
  3. Place the tofu ribs in the skillet and cover with a lid.
  4. Heat for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even reheating.
  5. Optionally, add a splash of bbq sauce to the skillet for extra moisture and flavor.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the tofu ribs on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to retain moisture.
  3. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.
  4. If needed, heat in additional 30-second intervals until warmed through.
  5. Optionally, drizzle with a bit more bbq sauce before serving.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the tofu ribs in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  3. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating.
  4. Optionally, brush with additional bbq sauce before serving for extra flavor.

• Oven: Used to bake the tofu strips at the specified temperature.

• Tofu press: Essential for removing excess water from the tofu to ensure it absorbs the marinade better.

• Knife: Needed to cut the tofu into thick strips.

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

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

• Baking sheet: Holds the tofu strips while they bake in the oven.

• Basting brush: Used to brush the BBQ sauce onto the tofu strips.

• Spatula: Helps flip the tofu strips halfway through baking.

Press tofu ahead: Press the tofu in advance and store it in the fridge to save time on prep day.

Pre-mix spices: Combine olive oil, smoked paprika, and garlic powder in a jar beforehand.

Use parchment paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Double the recipe: Make a double batch and store extra bbq tofu for quick meals later.

Quick marination: Marinate the tofu strips for at least 15 minutes while the oven preheats.