This BBQ Tofu Pulled Pork Sandwich is proof that tofu can do anything! I've already transformed tofu into gyros, carnitas, piccata, and more - but this pulled pork has got to be one of my coolest tofu transformations yet. The tofu is shredded, spiced, and baked until golden, then smothered in a quick homemade BBQ sauce and topped with a cool, crunchy apple slaw. I found that making in the oven won out of all my other trials. This summer dish will blow away even your non-meat friends and family!
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Pat your tofu block dry and gently grate your tofu using a large grater. No need to press hard - the trick is to go slow and gentle to get the best pieces.
Tip: Your tofu may crumble at times - but that's okay! Keep those pieces because they are still delicious in the mixture.
Add the tofu shreds to a medium-sized bowl and give it a toss with oil, garlic powder and salt (I find using your hands works the best!)
Spread the tofu out evenly over a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake it for 25-30 minutes, giving it a gentle toss halfway through, until it's golden and a little crispy.
Tip: If you want your tofu extra crispy in your sandwiches, leave it in closer for 30 minutes. FYI, this texture is less like "pulled pork" but still tastes amazing.
While your tofu bakes, start to make your slaw & BBQ sauce.
Homemade BBQ
In a small saucepan (NO HEAT YET) add your ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, maple syrup, soy sauce, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, and chili powder. Whisk until combined.
Set it over medium heat and stir occasionally until it just starts to bubble.
Drop to low and simmer 5–6 minutes, stirring every minute or so until it starts to thicken up. Take it off the heat and set aside.
Simple Apple Slaw
Combine your cabbage and apple in a medium bowl.In a separate small bowl, whisk your mayo, lemon juice, maple syrup and salt.
Pour the mayo sauce over the cabbage and apple. Place in the fridge until your ready to eat.
Finish off your Pulled Pork
Once your tofu shreds are cooked, add them to the BBQ sauce in the pan. Turn the heat on low/medium and allow it to warm through.
Enjoy your sandwich on a bun of choice with the tofu pulled pork and a good helping of slaw on top!
Notes
Storage: Keep leftover BBQ tofu and slaw in separate airtight containers in the fridge for 3-4 days. Assemble sandwiches fresh so the buns stay soft, not soggy.If you don't want to make homemade BBQ you can choose your favorite store-bought version. (need approx 2/3-3/4 cup).