Smoky Tempeh & Kimchi Miso Melt

Introduction

Hey there, foodies! Today I'm bringing you a sandwich that’s a total vibe—think of it as a California sunset meeting the bustling night markets of Seoul. We're taking the classic gourmet melt and giving it my signature Asian-BBQ makeover. This isn't just a sandwich; it's a toasty, umami-packed hug for your tastebuds that perfectly captures the 'pressed sandwich' trend hitting gourmet delis right now. Let’s get grilling!

Ingredients

• 4 thick slices of sourdough bread
• 8 oz tempeh, thinly sliced into "brisket" strips
• 2 tbsp white miso paste, softened
• 3 tbsp vegan butter, room temperature
• 1/2 cup vegan kimchi, drained and roughly chopped
• 2 slices vegan smoked gouda or provolone
• 1/4 cup vegan mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 1 tsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp liquid smoke
• 1/2 tsp grated ginger
• Handful of fresh arugula

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, liquid smoke, maple syrup, and grated ginger. Marinate the tempeh strips in this mixture for at least 15 minutes.
2. While the tempeh marinates, create your "Miso-Butter" by blending the softened vegan butter with the miso paste until smooth. Set aside.
3. Mix the vegan mayo and gochujang in a small ramekin to create your spicy aioli spread.
4. Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the tempeh strips for 3-4 minutes per side until charred and crispy around the edges. Remove from heat.
5. Spread the outside of each bread slice generously with the miso-butter.
6. On the unbuttered side of two slices, layer the gochujang aioli, a slice of vegan cheese, the seared tempeh strips, a heap of chopped kimchi, and a few leaves of arugula.
7. Top with the remaining bread slices, miso-butter side facing out.
8. Place the sandwiches back in the skillet over medium heat. Press down with a heavy spatula or a sandwich press. Toast for 3-4 minutes per side until the bread is golden-brown and the vegan cheese has perfectly melted.
9. Slice on a diagonal and serve while the steam is still rising!

There you have it—a sandwich that’s smoky, spicy, and soul-satisfyingly crunchy. It’s the perfect way to bring a bit of that sunshine-infused Asian BBQ flair to your lunch routine. Stay vibrant and keep experimenting in that kitchen of yours!

Emily