Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with bold Vietnamese-inspired flavors
- Crispy, flavorful lemongrass tofu
- Fresh and crunchy vegetables
- Perfect balance of savory, tangy, and fresh
- Great for meal prep
- Completely vegetarian and easily vegan
- Restaurant-quality sandwich at home
- Easy to customize
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Lemongrass Tofu
- 1 block (14 ounces) extra-firm tofu, pressed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons finely minced lemongrass
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Quick Pickled Vegetables
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup shredded daikon radish
- ½ cup rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Sandwiches
- 4 small baguettes or sandwich rolls
- ½ cup vegan mayonnaise or regular mayonnaise
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro sprigs
- Sliced jalapeños (optional)
Directions
- Press the tofu for at least 20 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Cut the tofu into thin slabs or strips.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, lemongrass, garlic, maple syrup, rice vinegar, and black pepper.
- Add the tofu and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, combine the carrots and daikon in a bowl.
- Mix the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved.
- Pour over the vegetables and let them pickle while the tofu marinates.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the tofu for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Lightly toast the baguettes if desired.
- Spread mayonnaise inside each baguette.
- Layer the sandwiches with cucumber slices, lemongrass tofu, pickled vegetables, cilantro, and jalapeños if using.
- Serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Variations
- Spicy Banh Mi: Add extra jalapeños and sriracha mayonnaise.
- Air Fryer Tofu Banh Mi: Air fry the tofu for extra crispness.
- Mushroom Banh Mi: Replace tofu with marinated mushrooms.
- Tempeh Banh Mi: Use sliced tempeh instead of tofu.
- Avocado Banh Mi: Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free bread and tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Peanut Sauce Banh Mi: Drizzle with a light peanut sauce for additional flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Storage
Store the tofu, pickled vegetables, and bread separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating
Reheat the tofu in a skillet, oven, or air fryer before assembling the sandwiches.
Freezing
The tofu can be frozen after cooking for up to 2 months. The pickled vegetables are best made fresh.
FAQs
What is banh mi?
Banh mi is a Vietnamese sandwich traditionally served on a crusty baguette with savory fillings, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.
What does lemongrass taste like?
Lemongrass has a bright, citrusy flavor with subtle herbal notes.
Can I use bottled lemongrass paste?
Yes. Lemongrass paste is a convenient substitute for fresh lemongrass.
Why should I press the tofu?
Pressing removes excess moisture and helps the tofu absorb more marinade.
Can I make the pickled vegetables ahead of time?
Yes. They can be prepared up to several days in advance.
What bread works best?
A light, crusty baguette is the traditional and best choice.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes. Simply use vegan mayonnaise.
What other toppings can I add?
Avocado, sliced onions, sprouts, and extra herbs are all excellent additions.
Is this sandwich spicy?
Not unless you add jalapeños or spicy sauces.
Can I meal prep these sandwiches?
Yes. Store the components separately and assemble just before serving for the best texture.
Conclusion
Lemongrass Tofu Banh Mi Sandwiches are a fresh, flavorful, and satisfying take on the classic Vietnamese sandwich. Featuring marinated tofu, tangy pickled vegetables, crisp cucumbers, and fragrant herbs, every bite is packed with texture and bold flavor. Whether enjoyed for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, these sandwiches bring vibrant street-food-inspired taste straight to your kitchen.
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