Tofu Melt Recipe

Press and slice tofu

Drain the 14 oz extra-firm tofu. Wrap in a clean towel or paper towels and place a weighted cutting board or heavy skillet on top for 15–20 minutes to press out excess water. After pressing, slice the block into 4 even slabs (about 1/2-inch thick) for sandwich-sized melts.

Make marinade

In a shallow dish or bowl, whisk together 3 tbs low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tbs olive oil, 1 tbs rice vinegar, 1 tsp maple syrup, 2 tsp minced garlic, 1 tsp smoked paprika, and 1 tsp black pepper until combined.

Marinate tofu

Place the tofu slabs in the marinade, turning to coat both sides. Let sit at room temperature for at least 15 minutes, or refrigerate and marinate up to 2 hours for more flavor. Occasionally spoon marinade over the tofu so it soaks evenly.

Prep vegetables

While tofu marinates, peel and slice the medium yellow onion into 1/4-inch thick rings or half-moons. Core and seed the green bell pepper, then cut into 1/2-inch strips. Toss the onion and pepper with 1 tbs olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt and a pinch of black pepper.

Cook vegetables

Heat a large nonstick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. When hot, add the oiled onion and pepper in an even layer. Cook, stirring occasionally, 6–8 minutes until softened and edges caramelize. Transfer vegetables to a plate and keep warm.

Grill tofu

Wipe the pan clean and return to medium-high heat, or heat a grill pan. Add a light brush of oil if needed. Place marinated tofu slabs in the hot pan and cook 4–5 minutes per side until nicely browned and grill marks appear. During the last minute of cooking, spoon any remaining marinade over the tofu so it glazes. Remove from heat.

Assemble melts

Spread a thin layer of butter or vegan spread on the outside of each bread slice (2 tbs total for 4 sandwiches). On the unbuttered side of two slices, place one grilled tofu slab each. Top each tofu with a generous portion of the cooked onion and green pepper mixture, then place one cheese slice over the vegetables.

Grill sandwiches

Heat the same skillet over medium heat. Place assembled sandwiches butter-side-down in the skillet. Cook 3–4 minutes per side pressing gently with a spatula, until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted. If cheese needs extra help melting, cover the pan for 1–2 minutes while cooking the second side.

Finish and serve

Remove sandwiches from the pan, slice in half if desired. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and add hot sauce or mustard to taste. Serve immediately.