TLT Sandwich with Tempeh Bacon

Ingredients

• 8 oz. tempeh
• 3 Tbsp. tamari (or soy sauce)
• 1 Tbsp. pure maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp. smoked paprika
• 2 roma tomatoes
• 6 leaves romaine lettuce
• 6 slices of your favorite bread
• 3 Tbsp. Cashew Mayo (or store-bought)
• Toppings of choice: avocado, sprouts, hummus, mustard, etc.

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 350°F (176°C).

2. 2

   Cut tempeh into small, semi-thin strips. (I cut the tempeh block into strips, then halve those strips to make them thinner.)

3. 3

   In a medium bowl, mix together the tamari, maple syrup, and smoked paprika. Add the tempeh strips. Gently stir with a spatula to coat each piece. Then set aside to marinate for about 10-15 minutes while your oven preheats. (You can stir them again occasionally to evenly coat.)

4. 4

   Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or Silpat. Then place the marinated tempeh strips in a single layer. Drizzle any leftover tamari mixture on top for even more flavor if you'd like.

5. 5

   Bake for 10 minutes. Then flip and return to oven. Bake for 10 more minutes.

6. 6

   Meanwhile, prepare your toppings. When ready, assemble your sandwich: Layer bread, mayo, tomatoes, lettuce, tempeh bacon, and any other toppings of choice. (I highly recommend avocado and alfalfa/clover sprouts! You can even mash the avocado on one slice of bread for better stability.)