Banh Mi Sandwich
If you’re looking for a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, the Banh Mi sandwich is your answer. This Vietnamese classic marries crunchy pickled vegetables, savory tofu, and aromatic herbs, all nestled within a crispy baguette. It’s the perfect blend of spicy, tangy, and umami, making it a favorite for lunch or a quick dinner. Let’s dive into making this delicious sandwich that’s bound to impress your taste buds!
Reasons to Love Banh Mi Sandwich
Banh Mi sandwiches are incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize them to your liking. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this dish:
– **Flavor Explosion**: The combination of fresh herbs, spicy mayo, and pickled vegetables creates a vibrant taste that is both refreshing and satisfying.
– **Healthy Ingredients**: Packed with fresh vegetables and protein-rich tofu, this sandwich is a wholesome meal option.
– **Easy to Make**: With simple steps and minimal cooking, you can whip up a Banh Mi in no time.
– **Perfect for Meal Prep**: The components hold up well in the fridge, making it easy to prepare in advance.
Gather These Ingredients
To make your Banh Mi sandwich, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 (14-ounce) package extra-firm tofu
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for the pan
- 4 baguette pieces, sliced in half
- Spicy mayo (see below for the recipe)
- Fresh cilantro
- 1 small daikon radish, sliced into matchsticks
- 2 small carrots, sliced into matchsticks
- 1 small cucumber, seeded and sliced into matchsticks
- 1 jalapeño pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, plus more as needed
- ½ cup water, plus more as needed
- 1 tablespoon cane sugar
- Sea salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons tamari
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ teaspoon minced fresh ginger
- Freshly ground black pepper
Gear Up: What to Grab
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following kitchen gear:
- Cutting board: Essential for slicing your vegetables and tofu.
- Sharp knife: A good knife will make quick work of the veggies.
- Frying pan: For cooking the tofu to a perfect golden-brown.
- Mixing bowl: To combine your pickling ingredients.
- Whisk: For blending your spicy mayo ingredients smoothly.
Build Banh Mi Sandwich Step by Step
Now that you have your ingredients and gear ready, let’s get started on crafting the perfect Banh Mi sandwich!
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Begin by pressing the extra-firm tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for about 15-20 minutes. This will help achieve a crispy texture when cooked.
Step 2: Marinate the Tofu
Once pressed, cut the tofu into thick slices. In a bowl, mix the tamari, olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, minced ginger, and a pinch of black pepper. Add the tofu slices to this mixture and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Step 3: Pickle the Vegetables
While the tofu marinates, prepare the pickled vegetables. In a bowl, combine the sliced daikon radish and carrots. In another small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, water, cane sugar, and a pinch of sea salt. Pour this mixture over the vegetables and let them sit for about 15 minutes to pickle.
Step 4: Cook the Tofu
Heat a frying pan over medium heat, adding a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil. Once hot, add the marinated tofu slices in a single layer. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwich
Take your sliced baguettes and spread a generous layer of spicy mayo on the inside of each half. Layer in the crispy tofu, followed by the pickled vegetables, cucumber, jalapeño slices, and a handful of fresh cilantro.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Close the sandwich and slice it in half if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the wonderful combination of flavors and textures that the Banh Mi sandwich brings!
Dietary Swaps & Alternatives
If you’re looking to modify your Banh Mi sandwich, consider these options:
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the baguette with gluten-free bread.
- Replace tofu with chickpeas for a different protein source.
- Use vegan mayo instead of regular mayo for a dairy-free option.
- Spice it up with sriracha or chili sauce for an extra kick.
Notes from the Test Kitchen
Here are a few tips and tricks to ensure your Banh Mi sandwich turns out perfect:
- Pressing the tofu is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior. Don’t skip this step!
- Feel free to adjust the level of spice according to your preference by adding more or less jalapeño.
- The pickled vegetables can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Experiment with different herbs like mint or basil for a refreshing twist.
Storage & Reheat Guide
If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Store the assembled sandwich in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, the bread may become soggy over time.
- For best results, store the tofu and pickled vegetables separately from the bread and assemble fresh when ready to eat.
- If you need to reheat the tofu, do so in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Quick Questions
Can I use a different type of bread for my Banh Mi?
Absolutely! While a traditional baguette is preferred, you can use any crusty bread or even gluten-free options.
How do I make the spicy mayo?
To make spicy mayo, simply combine mayonnaise with sriracha sauce to taste. Adjust the heat according to your preference!
What other fillings can I add to my Banh Mi?
You can add other proteins like tempeh, seitan, or even grilled eggplant for a delightful variation.
Can I prepare the vegetables in advance?
Yes! The pickled vegetables can be made a few days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. They will only get better with time.
In Closing
Incorporating the vibrant flavors of Banh Mi sandwiches into your meal rotation is a fantastic idea. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch, dinner, or as a snack, the combination of crispy tofu, fresh veggies, and zesty mayo creates an experience that is nothing short of delightful. With this recipe, you can easily recreate this beloved Vietnamese classic right in your kitchen. Happy cooking!
Banh Mi Sandwich
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by pressing the extra-firm tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for about 15-20 minutes.
- Once pressed, cut the tofu into thick slices. In a bowl, mix the tamari, olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, minced ginger, and a pinch of black pepper. Add the tofu slices to this mixture and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- While the tofu marinates, prepare the pickled vegetables. In a bowl, combine the sliced daikon radish and carrots. In another small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, water, cane sugar, and a pinch of sea salt. Pour this mixture over the vegetables and let them sit for about 15 minutes to pickle.
- Heat a frying pan over medium heat, adding a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil. Once hot, add the marinated tofu slices in a single layer. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Take your sliced baguettes and spread a generous layer of spicy mayo on the inside of each half. Layer in the crispy tofu, followed by the pickled vegetables, cucumber, jalapeño slices, and a handful of fresh cilantro.
- Close the sandwich and slice it in half if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Pressing the tofu is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior. Don’t skip this step!
- Feel free to adjust the level of spice according to your preference by adding more or less jalapeño.
- The pickled vegetables can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
