Open-faced 'Turkey' Sandwiches with Golden Gravy

Vegetarian Open-Faced 'Turkey' Sandwiches with Golden Gravy Recipe from China

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Open-faced 'Turkey' Sandwiches with Golden Gravy is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy meal at home. This recipe is a vegan twist on the classic turkey sandwich, using tofu as a substitute for the meat. The savory golden gravy adds a rich and flavorful touch to this comforting dish.

History

The idea of using tofu as a meat substitute in sandwiches has been around for decades, as tofu is a versatile ingredient that can easily take on different flavors. This recipe takes inspiration from traditional Thanksgiving turkey sandwiches, but with a plant-based twist. The golden gravy adds a delicious umami flavor that complements the tofu perfectly.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) extra-firm tofu, cut horizontally in half
1 cup mushroom broth or soaking liquid from dried shiitake mushrooms
0.5 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tbsp brown rice vinegar
1 tbsp finely shredded fresh ginger
2 large cloves garlic, minced
1.25 cup Golden gravy
4 slices bread (preferably whole-grain), lightly toasted
mashed potatoes and jellied cranberry sauce for serving (optional)

How to prepare

Cover the cutting board with a piece of plastic wrap and place the tofu halves side-by-side on top of the plastic. Cover with a second piece of plastic, then another cutting board. Use large cans of tomatoes or a cast-iron skillet to weigh it down. Let it stand for 1 hour to compact the texture and press out the water.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). In a small saucepan, boil the broth until it is reduced by half, which should take about 15 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the soy sauce, oil, vinegar, ginger, and garlic.
Arrange the pressed tofu to cover the bottom of a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan. Pour the warm broth mixture on top. Bake, uncovered, for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Transfer the pan to a wire rack and let it cool completely in the liquid.
Using a slotted spatula, transfer the tofu to a plastic container and discard the liquid. Cover and refrigerate thoroughly to firm up the texture, for at least 4 hours or overnight.
To serve, thinly slice the tofu lengthwise while holding the knife at a 45° angle. Place the tofu slices in a large saucepan, add the gravy, and warm it through over low heat. Place a slice of toast on each plate. Arrange several tofu slices on top and spoon the gravy over them. Serve hot, optionally with mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce.

Variations

Use tempeh or seitan instead of tofu for a different texture and flavor.
Add sliced avocado or roasted vegetables for extra toppings.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Pressing the tofu before baking helps to remove excess water and create a firmer texture.

- Be sure to slice the tofu thinly for the best texture and presentation.

- Warm the gravy before serving to ensure it coats the tofu slices evenly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Open-faced 'Turkey' Sandwiches with Golden Gravy with a side of mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce for a complete and comforting meal.

Cooking Techniques

Pressing the tofu

- Baking the tofu in broth

- Slicing the tofu thinly

Ingredient Substitutions

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

- Substitute apple cider vinegar for brown rice vinegar.

Make Ahead Tips

The tofu can be pressed and baked ahead of time, then stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Warm the gravy and assemble the sandwiches just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the tofu slices on the toast in a decorative pattern and drizzle the gravy over them for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Open-faced 'Turkey' Sandwiches with Golden Gravy with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories per serving: 320

Carbohydrates

Total Carbohydrates: 32g

Dietary Fiber: 4g

Sugar: 6g

Fats

Total Fat: 14g

Saturated Fat: 2g

Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

Protein: 18g

Vitamins and minerals

Calcium: 184mg

Iron: 4mg

Vitamin C: 3mg

Alergens

Contains soy

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein and fiber, while also providing essential vitamins and minerals. It is a satisfying and nutritious meal option for vegans and vegetarians.

Summary

Open-faced 'Turkey' Sandwiches with Golden Gravy is a delicious and satisfying vegan dish that is perfect for a cozy meal at home. The savory tofu slices and rich golden gravy create a comforting and flavorful sandwich that is sure to please. Serve with mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce for a complete and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Open-faced 'Turkey' Sandwiches with Golden Gravy. It was a cold winter day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret in her cozy little kitchen. Margaret was a wonderful cook, always experimenting with new recipes and flavors. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of roasting turkey and savory herbs.

Margaret was busy at the stove, stirring a pot of rich gravy and basting a golden turkey in the oven. She smiled warmly at me and said, "I'm trying out a new recipe for open-faced turkey sandwiches today. Would you like to help me?"

I eagerly agreed, excited to learn a new dish from my talented friend. As we worked together, Margaret shared the story behind the recipe. She told me that she had learned how to make these sandwiches from her grandmother, who had passed down the recipe through generations.

According to Margaret, the key to the perfect open-faced turkey sandwich was the golden gravy that topped it. She explained that the secret was to slowly simmer the drippings from the roasted turkey with a blend of herbs and spices until it thickened into a rich and flavorful sauce.

As we assembled the sandwiches, Margaret showed me how to layer slices of tender turkey breast on thick slices of toasted bread. She then ladled a generous spoonful of the golden gravy over the top and sprinkled it with a dash of freshly ground black pepper.

The moment I took my first bite of this delicious sandwich, I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself. Margaret graciously shared the recipe with me, and I eagerly took notes as she dictated the ingredients and instructions.

Over the years, I have made these open-faced 'turkey' sandwiches for countless family gatherings and holiday feasts. Each time I prepare them, I am reminded of that special day in Margaret's kitchen, learning from a dear friend who had a passion for good food and shared it with me.

The recipe itself is simple, yet the flavors are complex and satisfying. The combination of tender turkey, crisp toast, and savory gravy is a true comfort food that never fails to impress.

To make these open-faced 'turkey' sandwiches, you will need:

- 1 lb of sliced turkey breast

- 4 slices of thick bread, toasted

- 2 cups of turkey drippings

- 1/4 cup of flour

- 1/4 cup of butter

- 1 tsp of dried thyme

- 1 tsp of dried sage

- Salt and pepper to taste

To prepare the gravy, start by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for a few minutes until it forms a smooth paste. Gradually pour in the turkey drippings, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.

Add the dried thyme and sage to the gravy, along with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to simmer the gravy, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.

To assemble the sandwiches, place a slice of toast on a plate and top it with a generous portion of sliced turkey. Ladle a generous spoonful of the golden gravy over the top, making sure to cover the entire sandwich.

Serve the open-faced 'turkey' sandwiches hot, with a side of cranberry sauce and steamed green beans for a complete and satisfying meal.

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I have over the years. It has become a beloved tradition in my family, and I am proud to pass it down to future generations. Cooking is more than just following a recipe – it's about creating memories and sharing love through food. And these open-faced 'turkey' sandwiches with golden gravy are the perfect example of that.

Bon appétit!