International Cuisine > Global Street Food Recipes > Savory Street Food > Banh Mi (Vietnamese)

Vegan Banh Mi with Lemongrass Tofu

Enjoy a plant-based twist on the classic Vietnamese Banh Mi. This recipe features marinated lemongrass tofu, pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and a creamy vegan sriracha mayo, all nestled in a crispy baguette.

Prep Time
25 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Servings
1 sandwich
Ingredients
  • 1 loaf (8-10 inches) Baguette
  • 14 oz (pressed) Extra-Firm Tofu
  • 2 tbsp Lemongrass Paste
  • 2 tbsp Soy Sauce
  • 1 tbsp Maple Syrup
  • 1 tbsp Rice Vinegar
  • 2 tbsp Vegan Mayonnaise
  • 1 tsp (or more to taste) Sriracha
  • 1/2 cup Pickled Daikon and Carrots (Do Chua)
  • 1/4 cup (fresh leaves) Cilantro
  • 1/4 (thinly sliced) Cucumber
  • 1/2 (thinly sliced, optional) Jalapeño

Preparing the Lemongrass Tofu

Press the tofu to remove excess water. Cut the tofu into thin slices. In a bowl, whisk together lemongrass paste, soy sauce, maple syrup, and rice vinegar. Marinate the tofu in the mixture for at least 15 minutes. Pan-fry or bake the tofu until golden brown and slightly crispy.

Making the Vegan Sriracha Mayo

In a small bowl, combine vegan mayonnaise and sriracha. Adjust the amount of sriracha to your desired level of spiciness. Mix well and set aside.

Assembling the Vegan Banh Mi

Cut the baguette lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through. Spread the vegan sriracha mayo on both sides of the baguette. Arrange the lemongrass tofu inside the baguette.

Adding the Vegetables and Herbs

Add a generous amount of pickled daikon and carrots (Do Chua) on top of the tofu. Add sliced cucumber. Sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves over the pickled vegetables and cucumber. Add sliced jalapeños (optional) for a touch of heat.

Finishing Touches

Close the sandwich and press it gently to compact the ingredients. Cut the Vegan Banh Mi in half for easier handling and serving. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: 220 kcal
Protein: 10g
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Other Considerations for Nutrition

Choose a vegan mayonnaise with a lower fat content to reduce overall fat intake. Opt for whole-wheat baguette for added fiber. Ensure adequate protein intake from other sources to balance the vegan diet.

FAQ

  • Can I use a different type of marinade for the tofu?

    Yes, you can use other vegan marinades, such as a peanut sauce marinade or a teriyaki marinade.
  • Can I grill the tofu instead of pan-frying or baking it?

    Yes, grilling the tofu is a great way to add a smoky flavor. Just be sure to oil the grill grates well to prevent sticking.
  • Where can I find vegan mayonnaise?

    Vegan mayonnaise is available at most supermarkets and health food stores. You can also make your own vegan mayonnaise at home.