Vegan Blt Recipe

Prepare tempeh/tofu

If using tempeh: slice the 8 oz block into 8 even thin strips (about 1/8–1/4 inch thick). If using extra-firm tofu: press for 20–30 minutes, then slice into 8 thin strips.

Make marinade

In a shallow dish combine 3 tbs soy sauce, 1.5 tbs maple syrup, 1 tbs apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp liquid smoke, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder and 1/2 tsp onion powder. Whisk until smooth.

Marinate

Place the tempeh/tofu strips in the dish and turn to coat thoroughly. Let marinate at room temperature for at least 20 minutes (or refrigerate up to 2 hours for stronger flavor), turning once halfway through.

Cook

Heat 1 tbs neutral oil in a skillet over medium heat. Remove tempeh/tofu from marinade (reserve marinade). Cook strips 3–4 minutes per side until browned and slightly crisp. During the last 1–2 minutes, brush strips with reserved marinade so it caramelizes slightly. Remove and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

Prep produce

Slice the hydroponic tomato into 8 even slices. Wash and spin/dry the leaf lettuce. Lightly season the tomato slices with a pinch of salt and a light grind of black pepper (reserve remaining salt/pepper).

Toast bread

Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat (or use a toaster oven). Lightly brush each side of the 4 slices of Texas toast with a small amount of oil or vegan butter (optional). Toast 1–2 minutes per side until golden and slightly crisp. If you prefer, toast until darker for more crunch.

Assemble sandwiches

Spread 1 tbs vegan mayonnaise on one face of each toast slice (total 4 tbs). On two slices, layer 4 slices of housemade vegan bacon on each (8 slices total across both sandwiches). Top bacon with 4 tomato slices (2 per sandwich), then 4 leaves of lettuce (2 per sandwich). Add optional dill pickle slices if using. Close sandwiches with remaining toast slices, mayo side down.

Finish and serve

Press sandwiches gently, cut each sandwich in half on the diagonal if desired. Plate with 2 oz chips per sandwich. Taste and add additional salt and pepper to each half as needed. Serve immediately while bacon is warm and toast is crisp.