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Banh Mi Sandwich

Savory Tofu Banh Mi Sandwich: A Flavorful Twist on Tradition

This Tofu Banh Mi Sandwich combines tradition with a vegetarian twist, featuring marinated tofu, pickled veggies, and fresh cilantro.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 2 sandwiches
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Tofu
  • 1 block Extra-firm Tofu A hearty protein source; tempeh can be used for a different texture.
  • 1 tablespoon Extra-virgin Olive Oil Ideal for searing the tofu; feel free to swap with avocado or grapeseed oil.
For the Baguette
  • 1 piece Baguette Gluten-free baguette is a wonderful option for those with sensitivities.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Spicy Mayo Substitute with regular mayo or vegan mayo mixed with sriracha for a milder kick.
For the Garnish
  • 1/2 cup Fresh Cilantro Brings a burst of freshness; mint or basil can be used for those who prefer alternatives.
  • 1/2 cup Daikon Radish Offers crunch and a peppery flavor; red radishes are a milder substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Carrots Sweetness and crunch add balance; no substitutions necessary.
  • 1/2 cup Cucumber Provides a refreshing crunch; zucchini can be swapped if the cucumber isn't available.
  • 1 Jalapeño Pepper Adjust for spice tolerance or replace with bell pepper for no heat.
For the Pickling Brine
  • 1 cup Rice Vinegar Essential for pickling; white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar work as good substitutes.
  • 1 cup Water Key for the pickling liquid; no substitutions.
  • 2 tablespoons Cane Sugar Balances flavors with sweetness; maple syrup or agave can be used as alternatives.
  • 1 teaspoon Sea Salt Enhances the overall flavor; no substitutions needed.
For the Marinade
  • 1 tablespoon Tamari A gluten-free soy sauce alternative; regular soy sauce can be used if not concerned about gluten.
  • 1 tablespoon Lime Juice/Zest Adds fresh acidity; lemon juice is a common substitute.
  • 1 clove Garlic Clove Infuses aromatic essence; no substitutions needed.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger Contributes warmth; ground ginger can be used but adjust quantity.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper Season to taste; no substitutions necessary.

Equipment

  • non-stick skillet
  • jar
  • bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Tofu Banh Mi Sandwich
  1. In a clean jar, combine the daikon radish, carrots, cucumbers, and jalapeños. Pour in the rice vinegar, water, cane sugar, and sea salt, ensuring the vegetables are fully submerged. Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  2. Begin by draining and pressing the extra-firm tofu to eliminate excess moisture. Cut the tofu into ½-inch thick slices and gently pat it dry with a paper towel.
  3. In a bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, tamari, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, freshly grated ginger, and black pepper.
  4. Place the sliced tofu in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
  5. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle in a bit of oil. Once the oil shimmers, add the marinated tofu slices and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side.
  6. Slice the baguette in half and spread a generous layer of spicy mayo on both sides. Layer the seared tofu, pickled vegetables, and fresh cilantro on the baguette.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sandwichCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 15gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 550mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 5gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store any leftover Tofu Banh Mi sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Pickled vegetables can be refrigerated for up to 1 week. Marinated tofu can be frozen for up to 3 months.

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