Looking to add a touch of Vietnamese flavor to your meal rotation? Try making this delightful Vietnamese Banh Mi with Tofu and Pickled Veggies. This recipe offers a perfect balance of savory tofu, crunchy pickled veggies, and zesty herbs, all nestled in a warm baguette. It’s a wonderful dish that strikes the perfect harmony of flavors and textures, making it an excellent choice for lunch or a light dinner option.
Ingredients:
– 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and sliced
– 1 French baguette, cut into individual sandwich-sized portions
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1 cup thinly sliced cucumbers
– 1/2 cup rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves
– Thinly sliced jalapenos (optional)
Instructions:
1. Start by preparing the pickled veggies. In a bowl, combine the shredded carrots and sliced cucumbers. In a separate bowl, mix the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until the sugar dissolves. Pour this mixture over the vegetables, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Place the sliced tofu on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tofu is lightly golden and slightly crispy.
3. While the tofu is baking, prepare the sauce by mixing the mayonnaise, soy sauce, and sesame oil in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste.
4. Once the tofu is ready, assemble the Banh Mi sandwiches. Slice the baguette portions in half lengthwise, but not all the way through, creating a pocket. Spread the prepared sauce generously on both sides of the bread.
5. Layer the baked tofu slices on one side of the baguette, followed by a generous amount of pickled veggies. Add a few sprigs of fresh cilantro leaves and some thinly sliced jalapenos if you desire an extra kick of heat.
6. Gently press the sandwich together, allowing the flavors to blend. If preferred, briefly warm the Banh Mi in the oven to slightly toast the bread.
7. Your Vietnamese Banh Mi with Tofu and Pickled Veggies is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve with a side of Vietnamese iced coffee or a refreshing iced tea for a complete and satisfying meal.
Enhance your culinary skills with this fantastic recipe that brings the vibrant and diverse flavors of Vietnamese cuisine right to your kitchen. The combination of textures and tastes in this Banh Mi perfectly captures the essence of Vietnamese street food, making it a delightful and flavorful meal option everyone will love.
