Barbecue crusted tofu, dressed with thin slices of jalapeño, cucumber, and kale, complemented by shaved carrots and crispy pickled okra for an explosion of flavors.

 

 

 

FEATURED STANDOUTS

Tofu

Tofu, often known as bean curd, is a unique food derived from soybeans. The process of making tofu involves coagulating soy milk, then pressing the curds to form solid blocks. Its slightly spongy texture and mild flavor make it a versatile ingredient, perfect for incorporating many unique dishes. One remarkable aspect of tofu is its subtle taste, which lends itself wonderfully to marinades and dressings of your choice. Whether you prefer grilling, frying, baking or steaming, tofu’s adaptable nature allows for diverse cooking methods.

BOLILLO

Bolillo bread is a type of Mexican bread that is typically made with wheat flour, water, salt, and yeast. It is characterized by its oblong shape and soft, chewy texture. Its oblong shape makes it the perfect for stuffing sandwiches.

PICKLED OKRA

Pickled okra is a type of okra that has been preserved in a vinegar brine. The okra is typically whole and then soaked in a vinegar-based brine, often with the addition of spices and herbs such as garlic, dill, and mustard seeds. Pickled okra has a tangy, slightly sour flavor and a crunchy texture. 

CARROTS

Carrots are added to the BBQ tofu sandwich for several reasons but mainly it comes down to flavor and texture. The fresh crunch of the carrots give the sandwich an earthy flavor . The texture also contrast the softer texture of the tofu.

JALAPENO

Jalapeno peppers have a distinct flavor that is characterized by a combination of heat, fruitiness, and smokiness. The heat level of jalapenos can vary depending on the variety and growing conditions, but they are generally considered to be moderately spicy.

KALE

Kale has a slightly bitter, peppery taste with a hint of sweetness. When added to a sandwich, it provides a crunchy texture and a burst of flavor that complements the other ingredients. The bitterness of the kale is balanced by the sweetness of the other ingredients, such as the BBQ tofu and pickled okra, creating a complex and satisfying flavor profile. You can toss the kale in a little pickle or okra brine to soften it.

TIPS & TRICKS FOR THE BEST BARBECUE TOFU SANDWICH

Don’t press the tofu for this recipe

When working with tofu, it’s important to handle it gently as it’s packaged in water. For optimal results, I recommend preparing the recipe slightly ahead of time. First, I remove the tofu from the packaging, slice it without pressing it, and then season both sides with my dry rub. This allows the seasoning to adhere to the tofu without causing it to dry out or crumble. I then let the rub sit on the tofu for 4 hours or overnight, which helps the seasoning stick and allows some of the moisture to naturally evaporate. This step enhances the flavor and texture of the tofu.

Best way to cook tofu for sandwiches

To achieve the crispiest tofu, I prefer air frying. This cooking method cooks the tofu from the inside out, resulting in a satisfyingly crispy crust on the exterior. If air frying is not an option, baking or pan-frying the tofu until it reaches the desired level of crispiness are alternative methods you can consider.

Best tofu to use

When choosing tofu, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the texture you want. Tofu comes in a variety of textures, from soft to firm. Soft tofu has a delicate, custard-like texture and is best used in dishes where it will be gently cooked or served cold, such as soups, salads, and dips. Firm tofu has a denser texture and is best used in dishes where it will be fried, grilled, or baked.

Best barbecue sauce for this sandwich

The best barbecue sauce for this sandwich is a matter of personal preference. There are many different brands and flavors of barbecue sauce available, so you can choose one that you enjoy the most. If you’re looking for a more unique flavor, you can try a sauce from a local barbecue restaurant or make your own at home.

When choosing a barbecue sauce, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the flavor profile of the sauce. Do you like sweet, tangy, or smoky sauces? Once you know what flavor profile you’re looking for, you can start narrowing down your choices.

No pickled okra, No problem!

When it comes to pickled okra, the texture of the interior can sometimes be an acquired taste. If you’re looking for an alternative, feel free to substitute your favorite pickles. To choose the best pickled okra, start by selecting a brand that you generally enjoy for other pickles. This is often a good starting point for finding a pickled okra brand that suits your palate.

Best Bread for a Hoagie Sandwich

The best bread for a hoagie sandwich is a matter of personal preference, but there are a few types of bread that are commonly used and work well.

Italian Bread

Italian bread is a classic choice for hoagie sandwiches. It has a chewy texture and a slightly tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients in a hoagie.

French Bread

French bread is another popular option for hoagie sandwiches. It has a crispy crust and a chewy interior. French bread is a good choice if you want a hoagie sandwich with a more substantial bread.

Amoroso Roll

Amoroso rolls are a type of Italian bread that is popular in the Philadelphia area. They are known for their soft, fluffy texture and their slightly sweet flavor. Amoroso rolls are a good choice for hoagie sandwiches if you want a bread that is not too chewy.

Sub Roll

Sub rolls are a type of bread that is specifically designed for hoagie sandwiches. They are typically long and narrow, with a soft, chewy texture. Sub rolls are a good choice for hoagie sandwiches if you want a bread that is not too dense.

Ciabatta Bread

Ciabatta bread is a type of Italian bread that is known for its large holes and its crispy crust. Ciabatta bread is a good choice for hoagie sandwiches if you want a bread that is light and airy.

Ultimately, the best bread for a hoagie sandwich is the bread that you enjoy the most. Experiment with different types of bread until you find one that you love.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED TO MAKE THIS RECIPE

Chef Knife

Cutting Board

Baking Sheet

Measuring Spoon 

Mixing Bowls

 

SIMILAR INGREDIENTS TO

Spicy Honey Serrano Tofu Banh Mi

Fried Miso Peanut Tofu

Tofu Chorizo & Egg Breakfast Tacos

ENJOY THIS RECIPE WITH

Grilled Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs

Garlic Chicken Lo Mein

Spicy Cajun Meatloaf

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