This plant-based banh mi calls for crispy marinated tofu combined with bright and crunchy cucumber slaw, with a special balsamic glaze all stuffed into a fluffy baguette. Do not get intimidated by the ingredient list – all items are easy to find and once you prep all your ingredients, this banh mi sandwich will come together easily. 


INGREDIENTS:
Balsamic sauce
1 cup balsamic vinegar
1 tsp mustard
2 tbsp maple syrup or brown sugar (+ 1 tbsp, as needed)

Cucumber slaw
1/2 cup thinly sliced cucumber
1/2 cup thinly sliced carrots
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
¼ cup fresh cilantro
Salt and pepper to taste

Crispy tofu banh mi
4 thick slices of tofu
1 tsp of onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp cumin powder
1 tbsp lime juice
1 small baguette
3 tbsp vegetable oil for frying
Salt and pepper to taste

PROCEDURES:

  1. Combine balsamic vinegar and maple syrup or brown sugar in a small saucepan and let it simmer over medium heat. 
  2. Bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce heat into medium-low. Let it simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vinegar thickens. It should be thick enough to cover the back of the spoon. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely. 
  3. Prepare cucumber slaw by mixing all the ingredients together. Set aside.

Crispy tofu banh mi

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, onion powder, garlic powder, cumin powder salt and pepper.
  2. Place tofu planks in a shallow dish and pour over mixture over planks and let it marinate for 10-15 minutes. Heat oil in a large pan and cook tofu until browned and crispy. 
  3. Slice the baguette in half and grill the insides for about 1-3 minutes. Spread your dip of choice over the toasted side of the baguette, layer cucumber slaw, crispy tofu, and drizzle about 2 tbsp of the balsamic reduction all over. Slice in half and serve immediately.

 

Nutritional information: 
Amount per serving: 2

Calories: 432 kcal | Carbohydrates: 31.8 | Protein: 14.7 grams | Fat: 30g | Sodium: 150mg | Potassium: 326 mg | Fiber: 2.2g | Sugar: 7 grams | Calcium: 311mg | Iron: 4mg |

 *Nutrition values are an estimate only.