Vegan BLT Sandwich Recipe
This vegan BLT swaps out bacon for crispy, marinated baked tofu — smoky, savory, and every bit as satisfying between two slices of toasted bread. Layered with fresh lettuce, juicy tomato, and vegan mayo, it's a plant-based take on the classic sandwich that's simple enough for lunch and hearty enough for a light dinner.
Watch the full recipe video here
Why Marinate the Tofu Overnight
Firm tofu on its own is fairly neutral in flavor, so the marinade does most of the work here. Soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, and smoky paprika soak into the thin tofu slices over several hours, giving the tofu a savory, almost bacon-like depth before it even hits the oven. The longer it marinates, the more flavor it absorbs — overnight gives the best result.
Ingredients
- 8 oz firm tofu
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp mustard
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- 1 beefsteak tomato, sliced
- Iceberg lettuce
- 4 slices of bread
- Vegan mayo
- Olive oil, for baking
How to Make a Vegan BLT Sandwich
1. Marinate the tofu.
Slice the tofu into thin slices, about ⅛ inch thick. Mix the soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, paprika, mustard, and garlic powder in a small bowl. Place the tofu slices in a container, pour the marinade over them, and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for 2–3 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
2. Bake the tofu.
Preheat the oven to 420°F (215°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and drizzle with oil to cover the surface. Arrange the tofu slices in a single layer and bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
3. Assemble the sandwich.
Toast the bread slices to your preference. Spread vegan mayo on the bottom slices, then top with crispy tofu, lettuce, and tomato slices. Close with the remaining bread slices.
Recipe Tips
- Add creaminess: A few avocado slices add extra flavor and richness to the sandwich.
- Skip the oven if needed: The tofu slices can be cooked in a skillet instead of baked, if you're short on time.
- Make it heartier: Use a full 16 oz block of tofu for a bigger batch of crispy tofu slices.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I marinate the tofu?
At least 2–3 hours, though marinating overnight gives the tofu the most flavor.
Can I cook the tofu in a skillet instead of the oven?
Yes, pan-frying the marinated tofu slices in a bit of oil works just as well and can be faster than baking.
What can I use instead of vegan mayo?
Hummus, avocado, or a garlic aioli all work well as a spread in place of vegan mayo.