Smoky Chipotle Barbecue Tofu Delight
This Smoky Chipotle Barbecue Tofu Delight is a sumptuous plant-based dish that showcases the richness of flavors combined with the firm texture of tofu. The dish features extra firm tofu, marinated in a smoky and spicy chipotle barbecue sauce that perfectly complements the caramelized onions and garlic. The recipe is vegetarian and vegan-friendly, making it a versatile choice for gatherings or a weeknight dinner. Served over saffron-infused whole-wheat couscous or a fresh herb salad, this delightful dish is sure to impress both tofu lovers and novices alike. Experience a burst of flavor and satisfying textures in every bite!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Extra firm tofu
1 (14-ounce package, sliced)
Onion
1 (medium, chopped)
Garlic cloves
4 (minced)
Ketchup
1/2 (cup)
Whole grain mustard
1 (tablespoon)
Turbinado sugar
1 (tablespoon (or other sugar/agave nectar))
Chipotle chiles in adobo
2 (tablespoons, chopped)
Tamari soy sauce
1 (teaspoon)
Cider vinegar
1 (tablespoon)
Cinnamon
1/4 (teaspoon)
Fresh ground black pepper
1/4 (teaspoon)
Celery seed
1/4 (teaspoon (optional))
Instructions
1
Begin by slicing the block of extra firm tofu into 9 equal slices. Arrange the slices on a double layer of paper towels or a clean, non-fuzzy tea towel. Top the slices with another double layer of paper towels, then press firmly with your hands to extract as much moisture as possible. Let the tofu sit while you prepare the sauce.
2
In a medium saucepan, heat a splash of water or cooking oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes golden brown, about 6 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3
Add the ketchup, whole grain mustard, turbinado sugar, chopped chipotle chiles in adobo, tamari soy sauce, cider vinegar, cinnamon, black pepper, and celery seed (if using) to the onion-garlic mixture. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook while stirring frequently for 15-20 minutes, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld beautifully.
4
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat or lightly oil a rectangular baking dish. Brush a thin layer of the barbecue sauce onto one side of each tofu slice and place them sauce-side down onto the prepared pan. Generously spread the remaining barbecue sauce over the tops and sides of the tofu slices.
5
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. The tofu is ready when it is firm and has started to brown at the edges. Carefully remove from the oven and serve hot, ideally over saffron-infused whole-wheat couscous or alongside a colorful herb salad.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Smoky Chipotle Barbecue Tofu Delight?
It is a sumptuous plant-based dish featuring extra firm tofu marinated in a smoky and spicy chipotle barbecue sauce, served over saffron-infused couscous or salad.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is explicitly vegan-friendly as it uses plant-based ingredients like tofu and tamari.
What type of tofu should I use?
You should use extra firm tofu to ensure the dish has a satisfying, firm texture.
How many slices should I cut the tofu into?
The recipe recommends slicing one 14-ounce block of tofu into 9 equal slices.
Why do I need to press the tofu?
Pressing the tofu with paper towels extracts excess moisture, which helps it absorb the sauce better and achieve a firmer texture when baked.
What are the main ingredients for the barbecue sauce?
The sauce includes ketchup, whole grain mustard, turbinado sugar, chipotle chiles in adobo, tamari, cider vinegar, and various spices.
How long should the barbecue sauce simmer?
The sauce should be cooked for 15-20 minutes over medium-low heat until it thickens and the flavors meld.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius).
How long does the tofu need to bake?
The tofu slices should bake for approximately 25-30 minutes.
How do I know when the tofu is finished cooking?
The tofu is ready when it feels firm and the edges have started to brown.
What can I substitute for turbinado sugar?
You can use other types of granulated sugar or agave nectar as a substitute.
How many garlic cloves are required?
The recipe calls for 4 minced garlic cloves.
Is there a specific side dish recommended for this meal?
It is ideally served over saffron-infused whole-wheat couscous or alongside a fresh herb salad.
Can I use something other than a baking sheet?
Yes, you can use a lightly oiled rectangular baking dish if you do not have a baking sheet with a silicone mat.
What gives the sauce its smoky flavor?
The smokiness comes from the chipotle chiles in adobo sauce.
How long should I saute the onions?
The chopped onions should be sauteed for about 6 minutes until they become golden brown.
What is the purpose of cider vinegar in the recipe?
Cider vinegar adds a necessary tanginess to the barbecue sauce to balance the sugar and spice.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is described as a healthy, plant-based meal featuring whole-wheat couscous and protein-rich tofu.
Can I use water instead of oil to saute?
Yes, the instructions state you can use a splash of water or cooking oil to saute the onions.
What spices are used in the barbecue sauce?
The sauce includes cinnamon, black pepper, and optional celery seed.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
While it uses tamari, which is often gluten-free, the suggested serving of whole-wheat couscous contains gluten. Ensure all individual ingredients are certified GF if needed.
How much chipotle chile is used?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of chopped chipotle chiles in adobo.
Do I need to sauce both sides of the tofu?
Yes, brush sauce on one side before placing it down, then spread the remaining sauce over the tops and sides.
What size tofu package is needed?
The recipe uses one 14-ounce package of tofu.
Is celery seed a required ingredient?
No, celery seed is listed as an optional ingredient.
Can I use regular soy sauce?
Yes, you can use regular soy sauce if tamari is unavailable, though tamari is recommended.
What type of mustard is best?
Whole grain mustard is specified to provide texture and depth to the sauce.
Is this a quick meal to prepare?
Yes, it is tagged as a 30-minute meal, though total time including prep and baking may vary slightly.
What is the final texture of the dish?
The dish features firm tofu slices with a thick, caramelized barbecue coating.
Can I make this for a dinner party?
Absolutely, the description notes it is a versatile choice sure to impress guests at gatherings.