Tofu Cheesesteak

Steps

Stovetop Method

1. 1

   For the stovetop method, pat the tofu dry. Cut it into thin strips with a sharp knife, mandolin, or vegetable peeler, then tear the strips by hand into bite-sized pieces for rough edges. If using extra-firm tofu rather than vacuum-packed super-firm tofu, press it for at least 30 minutes first.

   Start 30-minute timer
2. 2

   Whisk or blend the marinade ingredients together: bouillon, tomato paste, soy sauce, vegan Worcestershire, Kitchen Bouquet, the measured water, nutritional yeast, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and MSG (or salt to taste). If using oil instead of vegan mayonnaise, blend to emulsify it.

3. 3

   Heat a large non-stick or well-seasoned pan over medium heat with a little oil. Add the diced onion and cook until browned, about 8–10 minutes. Remove the onion from the pan and reserve it.

   Start 10-minute timer
4. 4

   Add a little more oil to the pan, then add the tofu. Cook over medium heat for about 8–10 minutes, until it begins to turn golden brown; avoid overcooking so it does not become too chewy.

   Start 10-minute timer
5. 5

   Pour the marinade over the tofu and stir to coat the pieces. Stir in the reserved onions. Taste and adjust the seasoning as desired.

6. 6

   Arrange the tofu mixture in the pan into a shape matching a hoagie roll. Top each sandwich portion with 2–3 slices of vegan cheese. Add a little water to the edges of the pan, cover, and steam until the cheese melts.

7. 7

   Split open the hoagie rolls and fill them generously with the cheesy tofu mixture. If possible, wrap each sandwich in foil to compress it and steam the bread slightly.

8. 8

   Cut the sandwiches in half and serve with sliced cherry peppers, cherry pepper spread, ketchup, or other preferred toppings.

Oven Method

9. 9

   For the oven method, remove the tofu from its packaging and pat it dry. Slice it into thin strips.

10. 10

    Combine the marinade ingredients in a bowl, add the tofu strips, and toss to coat. The strips may break apart while mixing.

11. 11

    Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or cooking spray. Spread the tofu pieces in a single layer and bake at 350°F (180 °C) (175°C (350 °F)) for 20–30 minutes, until slightly dried out and chewy.

    Start 30-minute timer
12. 12

    While the tofu bakes, cook the diced onion in oil and vegan butter until grilled. Add the baked tofu to the pan with the onion.

13. 13

    Add 1 cup of water, broth, or a mixture to the pan and stir. Bring to a simmer, then simmer until most of the liquid has reduced, about 10–15 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning.

    Start 15-minute timer
14. 14

    Continue with the stovetop method from step 6: shape the tofu mixture to fit the rolls, add vegan cheese, and steam it covered with a little water until the cheese melts. Fill the split rolls, optionally wrap them in foil, cut in half, and serve with toppings.