Crispy Tofu BBQ Burger

Prep the Tofu

1. Cut the block of tofu in half lengthwise, so that you have two thick slices. 

   Wrap each slice in a paper towel and gently press to blot some of the moisture out of the tofu.  Be gentle here, though; if you press too much moisture out it will be too dry.  Set aside.

   

Make the Slaw

1. Chop the cabbage and put it into a bowl.

2. Add grated carrot, purple onion and chopped cilantro.

   Tip:  For the onion, I like to slice it thin and then cut the slices into smaller pieces.

   

3. Add the apple cider vinegar and mayo and toss everything together.

   Season with a pinch of ground chipotle pepper and salt and pepper to taste, and toss everything again.

   I really like the addition of the chipotle pepper; it adds a touch of smokiness and heat, but you can certainly leave it out if you prefer.  Or you could sub smoked paprika if you wanted some of that smokey flavor without the heat.

   

Fry the Tofu

1. In a skillet over medium heat, add the avocado oil and heat it until it shimmers and easily coats the pan when swirled.

   When the oil is hot, sprinkle the skillet with salt and pepper, and then add the slices of tofu.

   Turn the heat to medium low and let the tofu sit and cook until crispy.

   

2. Carefully turn the slices of tofu when you see the bottom edges starting to change color. Cook the second side until crispy.

   

Assemble the Burger and Enjoy!

1. While the tofu is cooking, separate the buns and lightly toast the cut sides.  I prefer to do this under the broiler rather than a toaster.  The broiler crisps the inside of the buns while keeping the outside soft and moist.  Just keep an eye on the buns so they don't burn!

   These burgers are deliciously messy, so the buns have to stand up to the toppings.  I like Pretzilla Pretzel Buns because they can handle the sauciness of this dish and maintain their structural integrity.  Plus they taste good!

   

2. Assemble by slathering your favorite BBQ sauce onto one or both halves of the toasted buns.  Having lived in Austin for many years before moving to Breckenridge, I miss The Salt Lick.  Sadly, I can't get their BBQ here, but I can get their sauce at Whole Foods!

   Place a slice of crispy tofu on the bottom bun, top with half of the apple cider slaw, then crown your burger with the other half of the bun.

   Serve with plenty of napkins, and prepare for your taste buds to be delighted!