Banh Mi Vegetarian My Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals

The iconic Bánh mì is a Vietnamese sandwich that has won hearts worldwide with its perfect balance of crunchy, savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. Traditionally made with pork or chicken, this sandwich is incredibly versatile and can be easily adapted for vegetarians.

If you’re craving a fresh, vibrant, and satisfying sandwich that’s packed with textures and flavors, then a vegetarian bánh mì is the perfect choice. This recipe combines marinated tofu, pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and a creamy spread all nestled in a crisp baguette.

It’s a delightful meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a picnic. Plus, it’s healthy, colorful, and easy to customize.

Whether you’re a longtime vegetarian or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. And if you love exploring international flavors, don’t miss out on some of our other delicious recipes like Half Runner Beans Recipe or the Green Goodness Juice Recipe to complement your bánh mì experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian bánh mì recipe is a vibrant explosion of flavors and textures that will awaken your taste buds. It’s light yet filling, combining the crunch of fresh vegetables with the satisfying bite of marinated tofu.

The pickled carrots and daikon add a perfect tangy crunch that balances the creamy vegan mayo and spicy sriracha. Plus, it’s easy to make at home, quick to assemble, and incredibly customizable with your favorite veggies and herbs.

Unlike typical sandwiches, bánh mì features a unique blend of French and Vietnamese influences, making it a culturally rich dish. It’s also a great way to incorporate more vegetables and plant-based proteins into your meals without compromising on taste.

Whether you’re serving it for a casual lunch or impressing guests at a gathering, this bánh mì will be a crowd-pleaser every time.

Ingredients

• 1 large baguette (preferably a light, airy Vietnamese-style baguette)
• 14 oz (400g) firm tofu, pressed and sliced into 1/2-inch strips
• 2 medium carrots, julienned
• 1 cup daikon radish, julienned
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (optional, for spice)
• 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• Fresh cilantro leaves
• Fresh mint leaves
• 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying tofu)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Equipment

• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Mixing bowls
• Frying pan or skillet
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Vegetable peeler or mandoline (for julienning carrots and daikon)
• Small saucepan (for pickling liquid)
• Spatula or tongs
• Baking sheet or plate for pressing tofu
• Tofu press (optional but recommended)

Instructions

1. Prepare the tofu: Press the tofu to remove excess moisture by wrapping it in paper towels and placing a heavy object on top for 15-20 minutes. Slice the pressed tofu into 1/2-inch strips.
2. Make the pickled vegetables: In a small saucepan, combine the rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and 1/4 cup water. Heat gently until the sugar dissolves completely. Place the julienned carrots and daikon radish in a bowl and pour the warm pickling liquid over them. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally for even pickling.
3. Marinate the tofu: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, maple syrup, and minced garlic. Add the tofu strips and gently toss to coat. Let marinate for 10-15 minutes.
4. Cook the tofu: Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu strips and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and slightly crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. Prepare the sandwich spread: Mix vegan mayonnaise with sriracha (start with 1 teaspoon and add more to taste) in a small bowl.
6. Assemble the bánh mì: Slice the baguette lengthwise, leaving a hinge. Spread a generous layer of the sriracha mayo on both sides. Layer the cooked tofu strips, pickled vegetables, sliced cucumber, fresh cilantro, mint leaves, and jalapeño slices if using.
7. Final touches: Lightly season with salt and pepper if desired. Close the baguette and press gently to compact the sandwich.
8. Serve immediately: For the best experience, enjoy your bánh mì fresh with a side of your favorite chips or a refreshing drink.

Tips & Variations

Tip: Pressing your tofu thoroughly is key to achieving a firm texture that holds up well in the sandwich and absorbs the marinade beautifully.

Variation: Swap tofu for tempeh or grilled portobello mushrooms for a different protein twist.

Tip: If you can’t find daikon radish, substitute with thinly sliced jicama or omit entirely. The pickled carrots alone give a lovely crunch and tang.

Variation: For an extra layer of flavor, add a splash of hoisin sauce or soy glaze inside your sandwich.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian bánh mì is perfect on its own or paired with light sides. Consider serving it alongside a crisp Asian slaw or a bowl of hot pho for a more substantial meal.

For a refreshing touch, pair it with a chilled Green Goodness Juice, which complements the sandwich’s fresh herbs and pickled veggies beautifully.

For a snack or appetizer-style meal, cut the bánh mì into smaller sliders. You can also serve it with crispy sweet potato fries or a simple cucumber salad dressed in lime and chili for a bright, zesty contrast.

Conclusion

Creating a vegetarian bánh mì at home is both fun and rewarding. This recipe brings together fresh, tangy, spicy, and savory elements that make every bite exciting and satisfying.

With simple ingredients and easy techniques, you can enjoy a taste of Vietnam anytime without meat. Plus, the flexibility of this recipe means you can tailor it to your own preferences, whether that’s more spice, extra herbs, or a different protein source like tempeh.

Not only is this sandwich delicious, but it also encourages eating more plant-based meals without sacrificing flavor. If you enjoyed this bánh mì recipe, don’t forget to check out other tasty recipes like the Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe or the indulgent Glazed Twist Donut Recipe for your next kitchen adventure.

Happy cooking!

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