BBQ Tempeh Sandwich with Quick Slaw

• •8 oz Tempeh (cut into 1/4-inch thick slices)
• •2 tbsp Olive oil
• •1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• •3 piece Ciabatta rolls (split horizontally)
• •3 tbsp Vegan mayonnaise (or to taste)
• •1 cup Green cabbage (shredded)
• •1 cup Carrots (shredded)
• •2 tbsp Apple cider vinegar
• •2 tsp Maple syrup (or agave nectar)
• •1 tsp Dijon mustard
• •1 tsp Salt (or to taste)
• •1 tsp Black pepper (freshly ground, or to taste)

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the Quick Slaw: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage and carrots. In a small separate bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots, tossing well to coat. Set aside to marinate while you prepare the tempeh.

2. 2

   Cook the Tempeh: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced tempeh in a single layer (work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and slightly crispy.

3. 3

   Sauce the Tempeh: Once the tempeh is browned, pour the BBQ sauce into the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and gently toss the tempeh slices to fully coat them in the sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to warm through and cling to the tempeh.

4. 4

   Toast the Ciabatta: While the tempeh simmers, lightly brush the cut sides of the ciabatta rolls with a little olive oil. You can toast them in a separate pan, a toaster oven, or under a broiler until golden brown and slightly crisp. Be careful not to burn them.

5. 5

   Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread a generous layer of vegan mayonnaise on the cut sides of each toasted ciabatta roll. Divide the BBQ tempeh evenly among the bottom halves of the rolls. Top with a generous scoop of the quick slaw. Place the top halves of the ciabatta rolls on top and serve immediately.

Chef's Tips

• 💡For extra tender tempeh, you can steam the block whole for 10 minutes before slicing and pan-frying. This removes any bitterness.
• 💡Adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the slaw dressing to your liking. A pinch of celery seed can also add a nice touch.
• 💡If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce to your BBQ sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the slaw.