Easy BBQ Tofu Sandwich

This mouthwatering BBQ tofu sandwich recipe doesn't skimp on flavor or texture. It's a quick and easy plant based twist on a BLT that's loaded with tons of thinly sliced tofu, smoky BBQ sauce, tomato slices, and crisp lettuce on toasted bread. This super saucy tofu sandwich is a real crowd pleaser!

If you believe the rumors that tofu is bland and boring, you're in for a big surprise. I based this BBQ tofu sandwich recipe on a BIG, Lenwich NYC deli sandwich. So the grilled tofu is sliced thin and piled high on toasted bread topped with juicy tomatoes crispy lettuce and a generous dousing of creamy BBQ sauce. Perfect for a quick and healthy lunch, fast and easy weeknight meal, cook outs or game day - trust me, this protein packed, tofu sandwich doesn't disappoint.

We love a massive, overstuffed sandwich in our family - afterall my mother is the Queen of sandwich making! If you want to know how to make any sandwich epic, check out my post Epic Vegan Sandwich Ideas. It's packed with pro tips, a sandwich making template, ingredient ideas, and recipes too.

Tofu Sandwich Ingredients

Here's what you need to make this high protein tofu sandwich:

• Extra firm tofu: I like extra firm tofu because most of the liquid has been pressed out of it already. The texture is firm but succulent when cooked.
• BBQ seasoning: I'm a fan of double of triple layers of seasoning. Rubbing BBQ seasoning into the tofu slices is the first layer of flavor.
• BBQ sauce: I love this bold homemade BBQ sauce. It has the perfect balance of smoky, spicy, sweet flavors; and it's super easy to make in advance. But use any favorite barbeque sauce for your second layer of flavor.
• Mayonnaise: Vegan mayonnaise is super easy to make from scratch and tastes delicious! If I have to buy vegan mayo, I love Earth Island (Follow Your Heart).
• Veggies: Tomato slices, fresh crisp lettuce (like iceberg, romaine or leaf lettuce).
• The spicy sauce: For the third layer of flavor, generously slather creamy, spicy BBQ sauce onto the bread! You'll need sriracha for that spicy kick.
• Bread: Bread can make or break a sandwich. I love lightly toasted sourdough, but any bread or bun you love is the perfect choice including gluten free bread.

Ingredient Options

• Sandwich topping ideas: Customize the sandwich fillings to suit your taste. Sub the iceberg lettuce with romaine or spinach instead. Add red onions, sprouts, avocado, cucumber ribbons, pickle slices, vegan coleslaw or any other veggies.
• Play with flavor: Replace the BBQ flavor with different spices and sauces you love. Try Buffalo, Korean, Teriyaki or KFC for example.
• Bread options: I recommend a sturdy, toasted bread or bun since this tofu sandwich is super big and saucy (see photos).

How to Make a Deli Tofu Sandwich

Here's the easy steps to make a BIG tofu sandwich that's super saucy and flavorful but not soggy:

1. Prepare the tofu: Wrap the tofu block in paper towels or a kitchen towel and squeeze excess liquid out. If your tofu is soft or juicy, place a cutting board over the wrapped tofu and add a few cookbooks or heavy skillet on top to press out the liquid. Use a tofu press if you have one on hand. I don't have to press my extra firm tofu (Sunrise Tofu).

2. Cut and season the tofu: Cut/shave the tofu into thin slices like deli meat (see photos). A variety of thicknesses creates great texture. Some tofu pieces get crispier and some are juicier. Place the tofu slices into a bowl with BBQ seasoning and toss to coat (don't worry about it being perfect).

3. Grill the tofu: Start placing the tofu slices on the griddle or pan at the top and work toward the bottom. Let them cook for ~2 minutes. Then starting at the same spot, (working in the same order) flip the slices. Next slather the tofu with BBQ sauce starting at the top piece. Once they are done, flip the tofu over starting with the top slice again. Liberally brush on more BBQ sauce. Let the sauce caramelize slightly (~1 minute), then remove from the heat. You decide how crispy to cook the tofu!
4. Prep the fillings: Cut the tomatoes into thick slices, prep your lettuce, stir together the creamy BBQ sandwich spread, and lightly toast the bread/bun.

5. Assemble the sandwiches: Butter the toast/bun if desired. Add vegan mayonnaise and a generous layer of spicy creamy BBQ sauce. Load up the sandwich with plenty of BBQ tofu slices, tomatoes, lettuce, coleslaw or any toppings of choice. Voila, you have a BIG, healthy, delicious meal on the table in ~20 minutes! Definitely use both hands when eating and pass the extra napkins - enjoy!

Storing and Meal Prep Tips

Make the homemade BBQ seasoning, homemade BBQ sauce and spicy creamy BBQ condiment up to a week in advance.
Cut the veggies and make the tofu the day of then store in separate containers if taking to a picnic or cookout. When ready to eat, everyone can make their own sandwich so there's no chance of soggy sandwiches!

What to Serve with Tofu Sandwiches

These 'manwiches' are filling on their own, but add any side dishes to make a heartier evening meal. My favorite side is vegan coleslaw or potato salad. The kids love it with fries or sweet potato cubes. What goes better with a sandwich than soup? This luxurious vegan tomato soup is the perfect side dish.

More Vegan Sandwiches

If you love a hearty sandwich like this BBQ tofu sandwich, here's a few more to try next:

• Chickpea Salad Sandwich
• California Veggie Avocado Sandwich
• Vegan Grilled Cheese
• The Best Vegan Egg Salad Sandwich
• Falafel Pita Sandwich
• Also for the tofu lovers and converts: Here's my popular tofu recipes!

This BBQ Tofu Sandwich Recipe shows that plant-based eating doesn't mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. With the meaty texture, bold flavors, and mega size it's guaranteed to please vegans and meat-eaters alike. I'm requesting it for Mother's Day this year! Let me know in the comments if you tried it for lunch or dinner!
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