Savor the flavors of Vietnam with this irresistible Vegetarian Banh Mi Sandwich, a perfect fusion of bold, tangy, and fresh ingredients. Featuring crispy golden tofu marinated in a savory soy sauce blend, this plant-based twist on the classic banh mi is packed with texture and flavor. Quick-pickled daikon and carrots add a delightful crunch and tang, while the sriracha mayo spread delivers a creamy, spicy kick. Topped with refreshing cucumber slices, fragrant cilantro, and optional jalapeño for added heat, all nestled in a crusty baguette, this sandwich is a satisfying, colorful meal. Ready in just 35 minutes, it's an ideal choice for a flavorful vegetarian lunch or dinner that’s great for meal prep or picnics.
Press the tofu to remove excess water by wrapping it in a clean kitchen towel and placing something heavy on top for at least 15 minutes.
While the tofu is being pressed, prepare the pickled vegetables. In a bowl, combine 1 cup of rice vinegar, 1 cup of water, 1 tbsp of sugar, and 1 tsp of salt, stirring until dissolved. Add the julienned daikon and carrot, and let them pickle in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.
Slice the pressed tofu into 1/2 inch thick slabs. In a shallow dish, mix 3 tbsp of soy sauce, 1 tbsp of brown sugar, and 1 tbsp of rice vinegar. Marinate the tofu slices in this mixture for about 10 minutes.
In a skillet over medium heat, add 2 tbsp of vegetable oil. Once hot, add the marinated tofu slices and cook until golden brown on each side, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
For the spread, combine 4 tbsp of mayonnaise with 1 tbsp of sriracha in a small bowl.
Slice the baguette into four equal pieces. Horizontally split each piece, leaving one side as a hinge. Lightly toast the baguette pieces if desired.
Spread the sriracha mayo on both sides of each baguette piece.
Assemble the sandwich: layer the cooked tofu, pickled vegetables, cucumber slices, fresh cilantro, and if using, thinly sliced jalapeño. Sprinkle chopped green onions on top.
Close each sandwich gently and serve immediately.
Calories |
574 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 25.7 g | 33% | |
| Saturated Fat | 3.7 g | 19% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 5 mg | 2% | |
| Sodium | 1518 mg | 66% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 63.5 g | 23% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.0 g | 25% | |
| Total Sugars | 12.6 g | ||
| Protein | 24.7 g | 49% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 749 mg | 58% | |
| Iron | 5.6 mg | 31% | |
| Potassium | 743 mg | 16% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.