Sizzling BBQ Tempeh Sandwiches with a Smoky Twist

When you're in the mood for something a little heartier and filling, but still plant-based, this BBQ Tempeh Sandwiches recipe is perfect! They're packed with flavor from the BBQ sauce and topped with a creamy sriracha slaw that isn't too spicy. These saucy sandwiches will definitely satisfy your cravings! Plus, they're easy to make with simple ingredients and only take minutes to make.

INGREDIENTS FOR THE BBQ TEMPEH
  • 1 c. ketchup
  • 1/4 c. bourbon
  • 3 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
  • 1/3 c. packed dark brown sugar
  • 3/4 tsp. smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp. onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp. ground mustard
  • 2 (8 oz.) packages tempeh, cut crosswise into thirds, each third sliced lengthwise
  • Canola oil, for grill
  • 4 vegan hamburger buns, split
  • 3 tbsp. vegan butter

INGREDIENTS FOR THE SLAW

  • 1/2 c. vegan mayo
  • 4 tsp. apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp. granulated sugar
  • 1/4 tsp. celery seeds
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 c. green cabbage, very thinly sliced
  • 1 c. red cabbage, very thinly sliced
  • 1 small carrot, coarsely grated
  • 1 shallot, finely chopped


INSTRUCTIONS FOR TEMPEH SANDWICH

  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, mix together the ketchup, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and ground mustard. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer gently for 15 minutes while stirring occasionally. Pour BBQ sauce into a shallow baking dish or bowl when it has thickened and darkened in color.
  2. Place a steamer basket in the bottom of a medium saucepan. Fill with 2 inches of water. Place over medium-high heat and bring to a simmer. Put tempeh pieces into baskets, making sure they are evenly spread out. Cover and reduce heat to medium. Steam for 10 minutes
  3. After steaming the tempeh, use tongs or a spatula to coat it in BBQ sauce. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight if you cover and refrigerate it.
  4. Make the slaw: In a medium bowl, whisk the mayo with apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, and celery seed. Season with salt and pepper. Add cabbage, carrot, and shallot to the mixture and toss until coated.
  5. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat and lightly oil the grates before cooking. Take the tempeh out of the bbq sauce, setting any extra sauce aside in the dish. Grill the tempeh for 8 minutes total, flipping it a few times during cooking until it is lightly charred and warmed through.
  6. Cut the butter into small pieces and spread it on the buns. Then, grill them for about 3 minutes until they're toasted. Lastly, put them on a plate.
  7. Assemble sandwiches by placing tempeh on toasted buns, adding BBQ sauce if desired, and topping with slaw. Serve remaining slaw on the side.


Why do we steam and grill the tempeh?
It is important to steam the tempeh before marinating it with BBQ sauce. Steaming helps the tempeh pores to open up, facilitating better absorption of the marinade and enhancing the overall taste.

Steaming tempeh makes it tender and cooked all the way through. This is better than just putting sauce on it and burning it on the outside. It also takes away any bitter taste.

Tips on cooking BBQ Tempeh Sandwiches
Here are some tips for cooking delicious BBQ Tempeh Sandwiches:

  • Marinate the tempeh: To make the tempeh taste the best, let it sit in BBQ sauce for 30 minutes or more. You can even leave it overnight. This allows the tempeh to absorb the smoky and tangy flavors.
  • Slice the tempeh evenly: When cutting tempeh, try to make the slices even. They should be about 1/4-1/2 inch thick. This will help the tempeh cook evenly and absorb more of the marinade.
  • Before marinating tempeh, you should steam it for 10 minutes first. This will make the tempeh softer and less bitter, so it can better absorb the marinade.
  • Choose a quality BBQ sauce: A good-quality BBQ sauce is crucial for tasty BBQ Tempeh Sandwiches. Look for one that has a nice balance of sweetness, tanginess, and smokiness. You can make your own sauce by mixing together ketchup, molasses, apple cider vinegar, mustard, and spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  • Cook the tempeh using your preferred method: You can pan-fry, bake, or grill the marinated tempeh. Pan-frying creates a crispy exterior while baking or grilling offers a healthier cooking option. If grilling, be sure to oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  • Toast the bread: Lightly toasting the sandwich bread adds a pleasant crunch and prevents it from getting soggy when you assemble the sandwich.
  • Add your favorite toppings: Customize your BBQ Tempeh Sandwich with toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, avocado, pickles, or coleslaw. Don't forget a delicious spread like vegan mayo, mustard, or chipotle sauce.
  • Serve with complementary sides: Pair your BBQ Tempeh Sandwich with sides like potato salad, corn on the cob, or baked beans for a complete and satisfying meal.

By following these tips, you will create mouthwatering BBQ Tempeh Sandwiches that are packed with flavor and sure to impress.
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