Herb Tofu Focaccia Sandwich

Instructions

1. Prepare the Focaccia

   1 min hands-on2 min waiting

   • Cut the focaccia horizontally in half to create sandwich bases and tops.
   • Place the cut sides down on a dry frying pan and toast over medium heat until golden and slightly crispy. Remove and set aside.

2. Slice the Tofu

   3 min hands-on

   • Pat the firm tofu dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel to remove excess moisture.
   • Slice each tofu block into thin, even slices, approximately 1 cm thick.

3. Prepare Batter and Coating

   3 min hands-on

   • Whisk together whole wheat flour, soy milk, and a portion of pesto in a mixing bowl until smooth and thick.
   • Pour seasoned breadcrumbs into a separate shallow plate or bowl.

4. Coat the Tofu Slices

   4 min hands-on

   • Dip each tofu slice into the batter, ensuring full coverage.
   • Transfer the tofu slice to the breadcrumbs and press gently to adhere crumbs on all sides. Repeat for all slices.

5. Fry the Tofu

   2 min hands-on6 min waiting

   • Heat olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat.
   • Add breaded tofu slices in a single layer without overlapping. Fry for about 3 minutes on each side until crispy and golden brown.
   • Remove tofu from the pan and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

6. Prepare Pesto Mayo Spread

   1 min hands-on

   • Mix the remaining pesto with mayonnaise in a small bowl until well combined. Set aside.

7. Prepare the Vegetables

   5 min hands-on

   • Slice tomatoes into thin, even rounds.
   • Drain pickled peppers and pat dry to remove excess moisture.
   • Wash kale, pat dry, and tear into small pieces.

8. Assemble the Sandwiches

   4 min hands-on

   • Spread a generous layer of pesto mayo on the cut side of the bottom half of each toasted focaccia slice.
   • Layer crispy tofu slices on top of the spread.
   • Add slices of tomato, pickled peppers, and kale on top of the tofu.
   • Place the top half of the focaccia over the fillings to complete the sandwich.

9. Serve

   1 min hands-on

   • Slice each sandwich in half for easier handling, if desired, and serve immediately while the tofu remains crispy.
   • Cooking tips:
   • Make sure the tofu is well-dried before slicing to help the batter and breadcrumbs adhere better and to prevent splattering when frying.
   • Use medium-high heat while frying to achieve a golden, crispy crust without burning the breadcrumbs.
   • Toasting the focaccia adds a pleasant crunch and prevents it from becoming soggy when layered with the pesto mayo and vegetables.
   • Customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of pickled hot peppers or replacing them with a milder option if preferred.