Flavorsome Spicy Tofu Banh Mi
Dive into this vibrant and mouthwatering vegetarian Banh Mi, a popular Vietnamese street food sandwich that packs a punch! Our version incorporates crispy, golden-brown tofu cubes seasoned to perfection, complemented by tangy pickled vegetables and fresh crunchy elements. The combination of rich mayonnaise and spicy chili sauce amplifies the flavors, while the fresh herbs and veggies contribute to the overall freshness and texture. Ideal for lunch or a quick snack, this delightful sandwich is sure to satisfy your cravings for bold tastes and wholesome ingredients!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
19
Ingredients
Ingredients
Toasted sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon
Olive oil
1/2 teaspoon
Extra firm tofu
0.5 (6-ounce) package (cut into 1/2-inch cubes)
Cornstarch
1/4-1/2 cup (for dredging)
Tamari soy sauce
1 teaspoon
Nutritional yeast
2 tablespoons
Rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
1/4 cup
Honey
2 teaspoons
Red pepper flakes
1/2-1 teaspoon (optional depending on heat preference)
Shredded daikon radish (or regular red radish)
1/4 cup
Shredded carrot
1/4 cup
French baguette
1/2 (split in half lengthwise)
Mayonnaise
1 tablespoon (or more to taste)
Red chili pepper sauce (like Sriracha)
1 teaspoon
Soy sauce
1/4 teaspoon
Cucumbers
2 slices (6 inch) (thinly sliced)
Fresh cilantro
6 sprigs
Cherry tomatoes
6 (thinly sliced)
Lettuce leaves
4 (torn)
Instructions
1
1. Prepare the Tofu: In a skillet, heat olive oil and toasted sesame oil over medium-high heat. While the oil heats, lightly dredge the tofu cubes in cornstarch until evenly coated.
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2. Cook the Tofu: Add the coated tofu to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, transfer the tofu to a plate and immediately sprinkle with soy sauce and toss gently with nutritional yeast until coated.
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3. Prepare the Pickled Vegetables: In a small bowl, mix rice vinegar, honey, and red pepper flakes. Add shredded daikon radish and carrot, mixing well to combine. Let the mixture sit for 15-30 minutes to pickle slightly, stirring occasionally.
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4. Crisp the Baguette: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the split baguette on a baking sheet and crisp it in the oven for about 5 minutes. Allow it to cool for 2-3 minutes before assembling the sandwich.
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5. Assemble the Sandwich: Spread mayonnaise generously on both sides of the cooled baguette. Drizzle with a touch of red chili sauce and tamari.
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6. Fill the Sandwich: Layer in the sautéed tofu cubes, followed by the fresh cucumber slices, and cilantro sprigs.
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7. Add Pickled Veggies: Drain the carrot and daikon mixture before adding it on top of the tofu. Pile on sliced cherry tomatoes and torn lettuce leaves.
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8. Final Touches: Season with salt and pepper, if desired. Press the top half of the baguette down gently on the sandwich, then slice in half diagonally.
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9. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately to relish the fresh, spicy, and flavorful combination of ingredients!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Flavorsome Spicy Tofu Banh Mi?
It is a vibrant vegetarian version of the popular Vietnamese street food sandwich, featuring crispy tofu, pickled vegetables, and spicy sauces on a crisp baguette.
Is this Banh Mi recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegetarian, using tofu as the primary protein and mayonnaise as a creamy element.
What type of tofu is recommended for this sandwich?
The recipe calls for half of a 6-ounce package of extra firm tofu, which holds its shape well when sautéed.
How should I prepare the tofu before cooking?
Cut the tofu into 1/2-inch cubes and lightly dredge them in cornstarch until they are evenly coated.
What oils are used to sauté the tofu?
The recipe uses a combination of 1/2 teaspoon of olive oil and 1/2 teaspoon of toasted sesame oil for flavor.
How long does it take to cook the tofu?
Sauté the tofu for approximately 5 minutes over medium-high heat until it becomes golden brown and crispy.
What is the secret to flavoring the tofu after cooking?
Immediately after cooking, sprinkle the tofu with soy sauce and toss it with nutritional yeast for a savory, umami-rich coating.
How do I make the pickled vegetables?
Mix rice vinegar, honey, and red pepper flakes in a bowl, then add shredded daikon radish and carrot to the mixture.
How long should the vegetables pickle?
Let the radish and carrot mixture sit for 15 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even pickling.
What can I use if I don't have daikon radish?
You can substitute regular red radishes for the daikon radish if it is not available.
What type of bread is used for this recipe?
A French baguette is used, specifically a half portion split lengthwise.
How do I crisp the baguette?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the split baguette on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes.
What sauces are spread on the baguette?
Spread mayonnaise on both sides, then drizzle with red chili sauce (like Sriracha) and a bit of tamari.
How many cucumber slices should I add?
The recipe suggests using two 6-inch slices of thinly sliced cucumber.
Is fresh cilantro included in this sandwich?
Yes, include about 6 sprigs of fresh cilantro for a traditional herbal flavor profile.
How are the cherry tomatoes prepared?
Slice 6 cherry tomatoes thinly before adding them to the sandwich layers.
Should the lettuce be left whole or torn?
The recipe recommends using 4 torn lettuce leaves for the filling.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, simply swap the mayonnaise for a vegan alternative and use maple syrup or sugar instead of honey.
What is the purpose of cornstarch in this recipe?
Cornstarch is used to dredge the tofu, which helps create a crispy, golden exterior when sautéed.
How much honey is needed for the pickling liquid?
The pickling liquid requires 2 teaspoons of honey to balance the acidity of the vinegar.
Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of rice vinegar?
Yes, apple cider vinegar is a suitable substitute for rice vinegar in the pickling mixture.
How do I assemble the sandwich layers?
Start with spreads, then add tofu, cucumber, cilantro, pickled vegetables, tomatoes, and finally the lettuce.
Is the red pepper flakes ingredient mandatory?
No, the red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted based on your heat preference.
How should the final sandwich be cut?
After pressing the top half down gently, slice the baguette in half diagonally for serving.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 19 distinct ingredients used to make this Spicy Tofu Banh Mi.
What flavor does nutritional yeast provide?
Nutritional yeast provides a nutty, cheesy, and savory flavor that complements the crispy tofu.
Should I drain the pickled vegetables?
Yes, be sure to drain the carrot and daikon mixture before adding it to the sandwich to prevent sogginess.
Can I add salt and pepper to the sandwich?
Yes, you can season with salt and pepper as a final touch before closing the baguette.
How soon should I serve the Banh Mi?
It should be served immediately to enjoy the contrast between the warm tofu, crisp bread, and fresh vegetables.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick lunch?
Yes, it is an ideal recipe for a quick meal or snack that satisfies cravings for bold, fresh flavors.