Spicy Crispy Tofu Grilled Cheese (Print Version)

Golden crispy tofu and smoky spices layered with melty vegan cheese in toasted sourdough.

# What You'll Need:

→ Tofu Preparation

01 - 7 oz firm tofu, pressed and sliced into 0.4 inch slabs
02 - 1 tbsp cornstarch
03 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
04 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
05 - 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper, adjust to taste
06 - 1/4 tsp salt
07 - 2 tbsp neutral oil such as canola or sunflower oil

→ Sandwich Assembly

08 - 4 slices sourdough bread
09 - 4 slices vegan cheddar-style cheese
10 - 2 tbsp vegan butter or margarine
11 - 2 tbsp vegan mayonnaise, optional for creaminess
12 - 1 small jalapeño, thinly sliced, optional for extra heat

# How to Make It:

01 - Pat tofu slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
02 - Combine cornstarch, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and salt in a shallow bowl. Dredge tofu slices in the mixture until evenly coated.
03 - Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry tofu slices for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown, crispy, and heated through. Remove and set aside.
04 - Spread vegan butter on one side of each bread slice. If using, spread vegan mayonnaise on the unbuttered side of two slices.
05 - Place a bread slice buttered side down, layer with vegan cheese, fried tofu, jalapeño slices if using, another cheese layer, then top with a second bread slice buttered side up.
06 - Wipe out the skillet and return to medium heat. Grill each sandwich for 2 to 3 minutes per side, pressing gently, until bread is golden and cheese is melted.
07 - Slice sandwiches in half and serve immediately while hot.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Crispy tofu strips give you that textural surprise that makes every bite feel like you're eating something forbidden.
  • The spice builds slowly, warming your mouth without burning it out, which somehow makes vegan cheese taste richer.
  • It comes together faster than ordering takeout, and your kitchen smells like a breakfast diner crossed with a spice market.
02 -
  • If your tofu isn't pressed dry enough, the coating will steam instead of crisp, leaving you with soggy disappointment.
  • Vegan cheese brands vary wildly in melt quality; some actually melt, others turn into rubber, so find one that works for you and stick with it.
  • Don't let the pan temperature drop when you grill the sandwich, or you'll end up with burnt bread and cold cheese in the middle.
03 -
  • Press your tofu between two plates weighted with heavy cans for 15 minutes before slicing; it extracts so much water that the final texture becomes almost creamy inside.
  • Use a cast iron skillet or well-seasoned pan if you have one; it holds heat better and gives you that darker, more sophisticated golden crust that regular nonstick can't quite achieve.
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