Tofu TLT With Garlic Basil Aioli
One bite of this Tofu TLT With Garlic Basil Aioli and even the most hard-core meat lovers will become tofu fanatics, which wonderfully mimics bacon texture. Savoury tofu strips bathed in smoky, sweet, and umami-rich seasonings that crisp up in the oven to resemble bacon. Add a touch of luxury with a creamy garlic basil aioli made from raw cashews, brightened by the fresh aroma of basil leaves and lemon zing. Assemble this plant-based masterpiece with lettuce, tomato, and red onion for a delightful, flavour-packed meal that’s guilt-free and packed with wholesome ingredients.
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Why You’ll Love This Tofu TLT Recipe
High Protein –This vegan TLT is packed with protein thanks to the help of our tofu bacon! Add in as many slices as you’d like to customize your protein needs!
Vegan Delight – This plant-based twist on a classic takes inspiration from everyone’s beloved BLT sandwich, giving it a vegan makeover. This Tofu Lettuce and Tomato Sandwich proves that plant-based cuisine can be as delicious and satisfying as traditional options.
Healthy Alternative – Using tofu as a protein source instead of bacon makes this sandwich healthier with less saturated fat while still loaded with classic BLT flavours. It’s an excellent guilt-free snack for a lazy Sunday brunch or a satisfying meal on a busy weeknight.
Homemade Goodness – The Garlic Basil Aioli is made from scratch, ensuring the freshest, most flavorful spread possible. The versatility of this garlic aioli allows you to use it in an array of your favourite dishes beyond this sandwich.
Meal Prep Friendly – If you’re all about prepping your meals in advance, you have another reason to fall in love with this TLT sandwich. You can prepare the tofu ahead of time, and it lasts for up to 6 days, while the aioli stays fresh for 5 days in the fridge. So, plan your weeks’ worth of meals with this tasty and convenient option!
Customizable – You can customize your Tofu TLT to your liking by choosing your preferred type of bread, adding extra spices for a kick, or tossing in your favourite vegetables. This TLT sandwich is highly versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
How to Make the Best Tofu TLT With Garlic Basil Aioli
Prepare Tofu Marinade
Mix the soy sauce, maple syrup, liquid smoke, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper in a small bowl.
Slice and Marinate
Next, slice your extra firm tofu into thin ‘bacon-shaped’ strips. Place the tofu strips in a container and pour the marinade. Let the tofu marinate for at least 10 minutes, allowing to soak up all the delicious flavours.
Bake to Perfection
Place the marinated tofu strips on a baking tray and bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 35-40 minutes.
Flip them halfway through to ensure even cooking, and brush them with the remaining marinade to intensify the taste.
Make Garlic Basil Aioli
Combine the cashews, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic, fresh basil, salt, and water in a blender. Blend until the mixture becomes smooth, velvety aioli. Adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add more lemon juice for a zesty kick or extra basil for a herbaceous twist.
Assemble Tofu TLT Sandwich
Toast your favourite bread and spread garlic basil aioli on each bread slice. Pile on the tofu strips, fresh lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and crisp red onion rings.
Seal the Deal
Close your sandwich, slice it in half, and enjoy a flavour explosion.
Recipe Tips for Tofu TLT
Marinate Tofu overnight: For more intense flavour, marinate the tofu overnight if you have time.
Swap cashews for hemp or sunflower seeds in your garlic basil aioli if you have nut allergies.
Want to keep things oil-free? You can omit the olive oil from the tofu bacon marinade.
Make it gluten-free! You can easily make this TLT gluten-free by using gluten-free bread. Just make sure to use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari as well!
Meal Prep: Whip up a big batch of this meal prep-friendly Tofu BLT sandwich; you only need a hassle-free assembly when ready to serve. The tofu can be stored for up to 6 days, and the garlic aioli lasts up to 5 days when refrigerated properly.
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Tofu TLT With Garlic Basil Aioli
Ingredients
For the Tofu Bacon
- 450 g extra firm tofu
- ¼ cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 3 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp liquid smoke
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Garlic Aioli
- 1 cup raw cashews
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 clove of garlic
- ½ cup fresh basil
- ½ tsp salt
- ⅓ cup water
For the Sandwich
- Sourdough or your favourite bread
- Lettuce
- Tomato
- Red Onions
Instructions
- First, prepare your tofu marinade. Mix all ingredients in a small bowl.
- Slice your tofu into thin ‘bacon-shaped’ strips. Place the tofu strips into a small baking dish or container and pour over your marinade. Let sit for at least 10 minutes.
- Place your tofu onto a lined or greased baking tray and bake at 400f for 35-40 minutes. Flip halfway through and brush with the remaining marinade to pack in more flavour!
- While your tofu cooks, prepare your garlic basil aioli, place all ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth. Adjust seasonings to taste as desired.
- Assemble your TLT with toasted bread, garlic basil aioli, sliced red onion, tomatoes, and lettuce and enjoy!