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If you’re looking to elevate your vegan meals with a perfect blend of sweet and savory, this Cherry BBQ Glazed Tofu is an ideal choice. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it also brings together the health benefits of tofu and the satisfaction of a homemade cherry barbecue sauce. In this post, we’ll explore the nutritional benefits of tofu, the perks of adding vegan meals to your diet, and break down the three simple steps to bring this delicious dish to life.
Jump to RecipeWhy Tofu and Vegan Eating?
Tofu is a fantastic source of plant-based protein, making it a staple for many vegan and vegetarian diets. Rich in iron, calcium, and all nine essential amino acids, tofu supports muscle health, bone strength, and overall energy levels. As a soy-based product, tofu is also low in calories and contains beneficial compounds called isoflavones, which have been linked to various health benefits, including improved heart health and reduced inflammation.
Eating vegan, even part-time, can provide a variety of health benefits. Plant-based diets are associated with lower risks of heart disease, hypertension, and certain cancers, all while promoting better digestion and increased fiber intake. This Cherry BBQ Glazed Tofu is a wonderful way to enjoy a hearty meal without animal products, proving that eating vegan can be both nutritious and incredibly satisfying.
Other Tofu Ideas on the Blog
Smoked Tofu Gluten-Free Sandwich
Healthy Mexican Shredded Tofu Bowl
How to Make Cherry BBQ Glazed Tofu in 3 Simple Steps
- Prepare the Cherry BBQ Sauce: Start by making a homemade cherry BBQ sauce that’s both sweet and tangy. Using fresh or frozen cherries, cook them down with a blend of spices and a hint of sweetness to create a sauce that perfectly complements the tofu’s texture. This cherry barbecue sauce adds depth and a rich, fruity taste that takes this dish to the next level.
- Bake the Tofu: While your BBQ sauce is simmering, prepare the tofu. Begin by pressing it to remove excess water, helping it hold its shape and absorb the sauce better. Once pressed, cut the tofu into slices and bake in the oven until golden. Baking tofu not only gives it a firmer texture but also enhances its flavor, providing the ideal base for the glaze.
- Glaze and Finish in a Cast Iron Skillet: With your tofu baked and cherry BBQ sauce ready, it’s time to combine the two in a cast iron skillet. Glaze the tofu with the cherry BBQ sauce. Add the tofu to the skillet over medium heat, gradually lathering the cherry BBQ sauce over each piece flipping it multiple times. Let the tofu cook for a few minutes on each side, allowing the sauce to caramelize and create a beautiful, sticky glaze. This final step infuses each piece with a sweet, smoky flavor that’s sure to impress.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Cherry BBQ Glazed Tofu with sides like roasted veggies, a fresh green salad, or polenta to complete the meal. The tangy glaze pairs well with the polenta, and some brussels sprouts.
This Cherry BBQ Glazed Tofu is proof that vegan cooking is far from boring. It’s nutritious, delicious, and satisfying—a dish that’s sure to become a favorite for both vegans and non-vegans alike. Enjoy!
Building Cherry BBQ Sauce
Glazing the Tofu
The Cherry BBQ Glazed Tofu plated
Cherry BBQ Glazed Tofu
Amp up your tofu game with my Cherry BBQ Glazed Tofu. The result is sweet, tangy and the perfect meal served on top of polenta.
Ingredients
Cherry BBQ Sauce
- 1/2 Cup Ketchup
- 3 Tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1/4 Cup Pineapple juice
- 2 Tbsp Rice wine syrup
- 2 Tbsp Molasses
- 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1+ Pint Cherries cut in half
Tofu
- 1 Package Tofu cut in horizontal slices
Instructions
Cherry BBQ Sauce
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Begin by adding the cherries to a pot. Cook on medium heat. Cook for about 10 minutes as they break down. Add the remaining ingredients and simmer for 20 minutes. Next, use an immersion blender to puree the sauce. Set aside.
Tofu and finishing dish
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Begin by pressing down the tofu wrapped in a towel with a heavy weight for 30 minutes. Take the drained tofu, and cut horizontally into 1/2" slices. Then, slice each piece with cross hatches. Bake the tofu for 30 – 40 minutes at 375 degrees.
Next, brush each piece of tofu with the BBQ sauce. Add to a cast iron skillet on medium high heat. Cook for 3 – 4 minutes constantly flipping and brushing with more sauce.
To serve, place the cherry BBQ glazed tofu on top of polenta. Enjoy!
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