Vegan Tofu Banh Mi
Crisp Vietnamese-style baguettes filled with savory pan-seared tofu, quick-pickled carrot and daikon, cucumber, herbs, chile, and spicy vegan mayonnaise.
Instructions
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Step 1
Combine the rice vinegar, water, sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl, whisking until dissolved. Add the carrot and daikon, toss well, and leave to pickle for 30 minutes.
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Step 2
Whisk the vegan mayonnaise and sriracha together in a separate mixing bowl. Set aside for assembly.
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Step 3
Prepare the cucumber, cilantro, and jalapeño on the cutting board and keep them ready for assembly.
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Step 4
Cut the tofu into four broad slabs, then cut each slab into thinner sandwich-size pieces. Gently toss the tofu with the soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic in a mixing bowl; marinate for 10 minutes.
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Step 5
Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Lift the tofu from the marinade, arrange it in a single layer, and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until well browned; transfer to a plate.
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Step 6
Wipe out the skillet and place it over medium heat. Toast the baguettes cut-side down in batches for 1–2 minutes, until crisp and lightly golden.
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Step 7
Drain the pickled vegetables. Spread the spicy mayonnaise inside each baguette, then fill with tofu, pickled carrot and daikon, cucumber, cilantro, and jalapeño; serve immediately.
Nutrition (Estimated)
Food safety
Caution: low
Keep tofu, mayonnaise, and prepared vegetables refrigerated at or below 4°C until needed. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and consume within 2 days; store bread separately when possible to prevent sogginess.
Risk factors
- Perishable tofu and vegan mayonnaise
- Cut vegetables held at room temperature
- Hot oil during pan-searing