Smoky Chipotle Maple Tofu Sandwich

I've had my eye on this recipe for a while and finally got around to putting it together. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint. My only additions were adding a little bit of ground chipolte pepper and using a bit more of each ingredient than what it called for in the marinade. I love the caramelized onions and the avocado mash as the condiment...so good! I love using avocado or a light flavored thin style hummus as a sandwich spread. You could also use veganaise too. If you use the avocado, I ensure you that you will not miss the old standard spreads. The tomato will also lend some nice juices into the mix. 

This is reminiscent of a B.L.T in some ways....or rather it might be called a T.L.T. However you call it, this was a great find and a keeper! And, it will leave your home smelling delicious. :)

Smoky Chipotle Maple Tofu Sandwich

Ingredients

• 1 block (15oz) organic firm or extra firm tofu, drained, pressed and thinly sliced
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons sesame or olive oil, divided
• 1 medium tomato, sliced thin
• Dijon or stoneground mustard, to spread
• 1 avocado, mashed, to spread
• a few leaves of your favorite sandwich greens, red or green leaf, romaine, iceberg, etc...
• salt to taste
• 6 slices bread of choice

Marinade

• 2 cloves garlic, crushed and minced 
• 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoon tamari, bragg's or soy sauce (use less if using soy sauce, may be too salty) 
• 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke
• a few dashes of chipotle powder, to taste

In a small bowl, mix together your marinade. Place tofu in a shallow bowl, or pie dish, along with the marinade and let soak for about 1 hour turning carefully once or twice in between. 

Once the hour is almost up, caramelize your onions using 1 tablespoon oil. Heat oil over medium heat, add onions, turn down heat to medium low, stir often and cook until they start to brown and caramelize. May take 10 to 15 minutes or so. Once done, set aside.

In same skillet, heat remaining oil and cook tofu over medium high heat. Add a little extra chipotle powder & salt if desired. Once tofu has browned, gently flip and brown the other side. It's ok if it gets a little crispy too! If you feel it is drying out too much, add some of the juices from the bowl it marinated in for extra moisture. When done, remove from heat.

Toast your bread. Spread one side of toast with mustard and the other with a layer of mashed avocado. Over the avocado, layer your lettuce, tomato, caramelized onions and tofu. Top with your other slice of bread. You can either eat it as is or slice in half. Serves three.

Notes: If you don't like caramelized onions, substitute with raw.

Enjoy! 

Recipe and photos inspired by I Love Vegan, find original recipe here