Looking for a smoky, flavorful BBQ dish without soy? This Soy-Free BBQ Tofu recipe swaps traditional tofu for chickpea tofu (besan tofu), a soy-free alternative that's rich in protein and perfect for those with dietary restrictions. Coated in aromatic spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, and baked to golden perfection, the tofu is then slathered with a tangy homemade BBQ sauce made from tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, and a hint of liquid smoke. This easy, 45-minute dish is not only vegan and gluten-free but also bursting with bold barbecue flavors that pair beautifully with grilled vegetables or a crisp side salad. Perfect for weeknight dinners or summer cookouts, this recipe redefines plant-based comfort food.
Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Cut the chickpea tofu into cubes about 1 inch in size.
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Toss the chickpea tofu cubes in the spice mixture ensuring they are well-coated.
Spread the spiced chickpea tofu cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through until slightly crispy on the outside.
While the tofu is baking, prepare the BBQ sauce by combining the tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, soy-free Worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, and liquid smoke in a small saucepan over medium heat.
Stir the sauce ingredients until well combined and simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Once the tofu is baked, remove it from the oven and brush generously with the homemade BBQ sauce.
Return the BBQ-coated tofu to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes to caramelize the sauce.
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm with a side of your choice, such as grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.
Calories |
991 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 41.7 g | 53% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.6 g | 33% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1501 mg | 65% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 119.3 g | 43% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 27.1 g | 97% | |
| Total Sugars | 52.7 g | ||
| Protein | 39.0 g | 78% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 162 mg | 12% | |
| Iron | 13.1 mg | 73% | |
| Potassium | 2201 mg | 47% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.