Incredible Vegan Egg Mayo Sandwich Recipe

This post for a vegan egg mayo sandwich was initially published on 30th January 2023.

When I say fancy sandwich, the first that comes to mind is usually the egg mayo one, and boy do we love some egg salad sandwiches ourselves. But if you are vegan, then you know egg mayo salad sandwiches are out of the question. Although, count your lucky stars: I have the yummiest and most perfect vegan egg mayo sandwich recipe you will ever need.

And let me tell you, it is as good as the non-vegan counterpart. And I prefer it much more than the non-vegan version! Somehow it’s quicker to whip up, packed with protein and a little healthier too. At least, that is what I like to believe myself! A tofu egg sandwich like no other, ready to rock your world as much as it rocked mine. Even our mother, an avid meat eater and egg lover, has become addicted to this vegan egg mayo mix.

For our friends from over the pond, what I am currently talking about is an egg salad sandwich. But a vegan one, at that. So if you are ready to explore such a thing, then jump on the bandwagon and let me blow your mind – it is that beautiful!

First off, this vegan egg mayo recipe is 100% plant-based, which is always a plus. And it’s the perfect lunch option to take to the office, healthy and extremely quick to make. Plus, if anything, you don’t have to spend any time boiling eggs to perfection. Even though I love eggs and I love egg mayo, I like my eggs boiled in a very specific way and it’s not always the fastest thing to do. So give this vegan egg mayo a shot and let me know what you think!

easiest Vegan Egg Mayo Sandwich Recipe

When I think egg mayo, generally, I connect it to afternoon tea. I know what you are thinking, it has nothing really to do with it. But then again, after 12 years in the UK, you kind of see the connection going! Of all the sandwiches one serves at tea, this is my favourite. And for someone on a plant-based diet to be able to enjoy it as well, there is no bigger satisfaction than that. And if you are after that vegan egg salad recipe, then you know this is the one you need to follow.

What is vegan egg mayo made of?

This easy recipe is extremely tasty and flavourful, and while firm tofu is the main ingredient here, we do use some extras to help with that flavour profile only eggs have. To replicate the eggy flavour you can use Kala Namak, a kiln-fired rock salt with a sulphurous, pungent smell. Kala namak it’s composed mainly of sodium chloride, with several other components lending the salt its colour and smell. It can also be called Himalayan black salt, but we will use normal salt.

Then we have a shallot, finely chopped, some Dijon mustard and turmeric to give it a nice colour. Last, but most definitely not least, we have vegan mayonnaise, nutritional yeast and both salt & ground black pepper. Oh, almost forgot the bread! We have used some plain, white sliced bread with no crusts on. You can choose anything you like, even filling up a baguette if it tickles your fancy!

We have also added some sprouts, but you can use salad or sliced cucumber too. And nothing at all is also an option here. Slather the bread in vegan mayo and you’re ready to rock and roll with this easy vegan mayo sandwich filling.

What is tofu and how is it made?

Tofu, also known as bean curd, is a popular food derived from soybeans. It is a staple ingredient in many Asian cuisines and has gained popularity worldwide, especially among vegetarians, vegans, and those looking to incorporate more plant-based protein into their diets. It makes so much sense for it to feature in this recipe for the vegan egg mayo sandwich as it’s used to replace the egg part.

Here’s an overview of how tofu is made:

1. Soybeans Selection: The process starts with selecting high-quality soybeans. These soybeans are soaked in water to rehydrate them, making them easier to blend and extract;
2. Grinding: The soaked soybeans are then ground into a smooth paste or slurry. This step helps break down the beans and release their nutrients;
3. Cooking: The soybean slurry is then cooked in water to further soften the beans and eliminate any raw taste. The mixture is heated to a certain temperature to ensure the beans are properly cooked;
4. Coagulation: Once the soybean mixture is cooked, a coagulant is added to separate the solids from the liquid. Traditionally, coagulants like calcium sulfate (gypsum) or magnesium chloride are used. These substances cause the soy milk to curdle and form solid curds, leaving behind a watery whey;
5. Pressing: The curds are then transferred into moulds lined with cheesecloth or tofu moulds. The moulds are pressed to remove excess moisture and shape the tofu into blocks. The amount of pressing determines the firmness of the tofu; for softer tofu, less pressing is applied, while firmer tofu requires more pressure;
6. Cooling and Packaging: After pressing, the tofu blocks are cooled either by immersion in cold water or through refrigeration. Once cooled, they are typically packaged and ready for distribution to markets or consumers.

Tofu comes in various textures, including silken, soft, firm, and extra-firm, depending on the amount of water pressed out during production. It is prized for its versatility, as it can be used in both savory and sweet dishes, taking on the flavors of the ingredients it’s cooked with.

Nutritionally, tofu is an excellent source of protein, iron, calcium, and other essential nutrients. It’s low in calories and saturated fat, making it a healthy addition to any diet. Additionally, tofu is cholesterol-free and contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source for vegetarians and vegans alike.

Overall, tofu is a versatile and nutritious food that’s enjoyed by people all around the world for its taste, texture, and health benefits.

Where do I find all the ingredients for the vegan egg mayo?

Most of the ingredients for this vegan egg mayo sandwich recipe are easy to find in your local supermarket. Make sure you pick firm tofu and not silken tofu as the texture with silken tofu wouldn’t work. You will be crumbling the tofu, so the firm one is a must here. When it comes to black salt, you will be able to find this one in your local Asian supermarket. As for the turmeric and nutritional yeast, a good supermarket or health shop will most definitely stock these.

What is black salt and why do I need it in this vegan egg mayo mix?

Black salt, also known as kala namak, is a type of rock salt that is commonly used in South Asian cuisine. Despite its name, black salt is actually pinkish-grey or purple in colour and has a distinct sulfurous smell and taste. It is not to be confused with Himalayan black salt, which is a different type of salt altogether.

The unique flavour of black salt comes from its sulfur content, which is created during the salt’s production process. Black salt is typically harvested from volcanic regions and is heated to high temperatures with various herbs, seeds, and spices, including harad seeds, amla, bahera, babul bark, or saindhav salt, which imparts the characteristic sulfuric aroma and taste.

In vegan cooking, black salt is often used to mimic the flavour of eggs, just like in this vegan egg mayo, due to its sulfurous aroma. When added to dishes, especially those that are meant to replicate the taste of eggs, such as tofu scrambles or vegan egg mayo, black salt can contribute an eggy flavour and aroma.

In the vegan egg mayo recipe here, black salt is not explicitly mentioned or required but can be added as an optional ingredient to enhance the eggy flavour of the spread. It can be added along with the other seasonings during the mixing step. However, it’s important to note that black salt has a strong flavour, so it should be added sparingly, tasting as you go to avoid overpowering the other flavours in the vegan egg mayo mixture.

Overall, while black salt is not essential in the vegan egg mayo recipe, it can be a helpful addition for those looking to replicate the taste of eggs in vegan dishes. Its distinct flavour can add depth and complexity to plant-based recipes, making them more satisfying and flavorful for those transitioning to a vegan diet or simply looking to reduce their consumption of animal products.

What ingredients do I need for the vegan egg mayo?

Creating a vegan egg mayo sandwich with these ingredients will hand you a delightful fusion of textures and flavours. Let’s break down each component and explore how they come together to craft a satisfying sandwich:

1. Firm Tofu: Acting as the base for the vegan egg mayo, firm tofu provides a creamy and protein-rich foundation. Its mild flavour allows it to absorb the other ingredients while offering a substantial texture reminiscent of traditional egg salad;
2. Shallot: Shallots contribute a subtle onion flavour that enhances the overall complexity of the sandwich filling. Their sweetness and mildness make them a perfect choice for adding depth without overpowering the other ingredients;
3. Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard brings a tangy and slightly spicy kick to the vegan egg mayo, complementing the creamy tofu and adding a zesty contrast to the sandwich’s flavour profile;
4. Turmeric: Beyond its vibrant yellow hue, turmeric lends a warm and earthy flavour to the vegan egg mayo. Additionally, turmeric provides anti-inflammatory properties and a host of health benefits, making it a welcome addition to any dish;
5. Vegan Mayo: Vegan mayo acts as a binder, providing creaminess and richness to the sandwich filling. It helps meld the flavours together while ensuring a smooth and spreadable consistency;
6. Nutritional Yeast: Nutritional yeast flakes add a savoury, umami-rich flavour to the vegan egg mayo, reminiscent of the depth found in traditional egg salad. Additionally, it offers a boost of B vitamins and protein, enhancing the nutritional profile of the sandwich;
7. Salt and Pepper: These staples of seasoning are essential for balancing the flavours of the sandwich filling, adding depth and enhancing the overall taste experience;
8. White Bread: The choice of white bread provides a neutral canvas that allows the flavours of the sandwich filling to shine. Its soft texture complements the creamy consistency of the vegan egg mayo. We like the crusts off, but this is your choice;
9. Sprouts or Cress: Adding a layer of freshness and crunch, sprouts or cress elevate the sandwich with their vibrant flavour and texture. They provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy filling, adding brightness to each bite.

When combined, these ingredients create a vegan egg mayo sandwich that’s bursting with flavour, texture, and nutrients. From the creamy tofu base to the tangy Dijon mustard and the crisp freshness of sprouts or cress, every element plays a crucial role in crafting a satisfying and delicious sandwich experience. Whether enjoyed for lunch, dinner, or any time in between, this vegan egg mayo sandwich is sure to leave you feeling nourished and satisfied. It makes a perfect mix for a meal prep for your weekly office lunch or to take with you anywhere as a dip with crackers too.

How do I make this vegan egg mayo sandwich?

As previously mentioned, this vegan egg mayo sandwich is made with tofu. And the tofu will need to be crumbled by breaking it between your fingers in a mixing bowl. Then you will add the rest of your ingredients and combine them well with a spoon. It cannot get easier than this! These vegan egg mayo sandwiches are as delicious as they get!

When you build your sandwich, make sure you add some greens: we recommend cress or sprouts, but salad will work fine too.

Let’s make the vegan egg mayo sandwich together!

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Of course, with Veganuary in full swing, we have done our best to dish out some fancy recipes everyone could enjoy. So make sure you also check this post on Violife, this recipe from last week on a vegan panna cotta, vegan mushroom korma and, why not, a mocktail made with grapefruit!

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