Description
This Summer TLT Sandwich is a vibrant twist on the traditional BLT, featuring marinated and pan-seared super firm tofu strips, creamy avocado spread, juicy ripe tomatoes, and crisp lettuce, all nestled in toasted ciabatta rolls. The tofu is infused with a smoky, savory marinade packed with tamari, maple syrup, and warming spices, making it a delicious plant-based option perfect for a light summer meal or picnic.
Ingredients
Marinade and Tofu
- 3 tbsp tamari
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp vegetable broth or water
- 1 tbsp olive oil, plus more for cooking
- 1 tsp liquid smoke (optional)
- 2 tsp nutritional yeast (optional)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/4 tsp allspice
- Pinch of white pepper
- 1, 16 oz block of super firm tofu, drained and patted dry
- Kosher salt, to taste
Avocado Spread
- 2 ripe avocados, pitted and flesh removed
- Juice and zest of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup dill, minced
- Pinch of salt, to taste
Sandwich Assembly
- 3-4 ciabatta sandwich rolls
- Lettuce leaves
- 8-10 thick slices of ripe tomatoes
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling (optional)
- Pinch of salt, for tomato seasoning (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large shallow bowl or container, whisk together tamari, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, vegetable broth, olive oil, liquid smoke, nutritional yeast, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground coriander, allspice, and white pepper until fully combined to create a flavorful marinade.
- Slice the Tofu: Place the drained and dried block of super firm tofu on a cutting board and cut it in half lengthwise. Position the tofu cut side down and thinly slice across into 1/8-inch (1-2 mm) strips using a sharp knife to create thin, even slices suitable for marinating and cooking.
- Marinate the Tofu: Dip each tofu strip into the marinade, ensuring both sides are thoroughly coated. Let the tofu absorb the marinade flavors while you prepare the cooking surface.
- Cook the Tofu: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large griddle or skillet over medium-low heat. Arrange the tofu strips in a single layer with space between each. Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until the bottom side is golden brown and slightly crisp. Flip each strip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. If the tofu appears dry while cooking, brush on some remaining marinade to keep it moist. The tofu is done when browned and crisp around edges on both sides. Transfer to a plate and sprinkle with kosher salt as desired. Repeat cooking with any remaining tofu strips.
- Make the Avocado Spread: In a bowl, combine the avocado flesh, lime zest, lime juice, minced dill, and a generous pinch of salt. Mash everything together with a fork until the mixture is creamy and well combined to create a zesty avocado spread.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Slice the ciabatta rolls horizontally and spread the avocado mixture on both cut sides. Layer thick slices of tomato on the bottom half of the bread, optionally seasoning the tomatoes with fresh lime juice, a pinch of salt, and a small drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for extra flavor. Add the cooked tofu strips on top, followed by fresh lettuce leaves. Close the sandwich with the top half of the roll and serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an added citrus burst.
Notes
- For a hands-off cooking option, the tofu strips can be baked in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 15-20 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until browned and crisp.
- Be sure to press and pat dry the tofu well before slicing to achieve better texture and crispiness.
- Liquid smoke is optional but adds a smoky depth to mimic traditional bacon flavor.
- Use super firm tofu for best results as it holds shape well and crisps nicely.
- If ciabatta rolls are not available, any hearty sandwich bread or baguette can be used as an alternative.
- The nutritional yeast adds umami and subtle cheesiness but can be omitted if unavailable or for a nut-free option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
