vegan tuna sandwichTotal Recipe Yield: 6-8 sandwiches
Portion Size: 1/4 cup
Vegan:Ìý³Û±ð²õ
LO Vegetarian:Ìý³Û±ð²õ
Contains Pork:Ìý±·´Ç
Contains Alcohol:Ìý±·´Ç

Ingredients

For the 'Tuna'

  • 1 can (20 oz) young green jackfruit in water or brine, drained and rinsed
  • 2 teaspoons of Old Bay Seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon of lemon juice (1/2 lemon)
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1/4 cup vegan mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon crumbled nori (optional, for a seafood flavor) (alternatively, use kelp powder or dulce granules)
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion (~50 grams)
  • 1/2 cup or 2 stalks of celery, finely chopped (~50 grams)
  • 1 tablespoon capers, drained

For the Sandwich

  • Sourdough slices or any bread
  • Batch of store-bought vegan pesto
  • Tomatoes, sliced
  • Avocado, sliced
  • Hot sauce
  • Sliced jalapeños or pickled sliced banana peppers
  • Optional: vegan chipotle mayo or vegan mayo

Directions

Prepare the Jackfruit

  • Rinse and drain the jackfruit to remove the briny flavor. Dry in a towel and remove as much excess moisture as possible by ringing the towel over the sink.

Combine the Ingredients

  • In a food process, add the jackfruit, Old Bay Seasoning, lemon juice, chickpeas, vegan mayonnaise, crumbled nori sheet, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Process until smooth, stopping when necessary to scrape down the sides.
  • Remove the lid and add chopped red onion, capers, and celery. Pulse to only barely combine ingredients. We want some chunky parts in there.
  • Adjust seasonings. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want more lemon for brightness or an extra dollop of vegan mayonnaise for creaminess. 
  • Chill Before Using: This is optional, but the 'tuna' tastes even better when chilled. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. 

Assembling the Sandwich

  • Add a layer of pesto, then avocado, tomato, and tuna on one side of the bread. Add vegan chipotle mayo or regular vegan mayo on the other slice of bread, top with jalapenos or banana peppers, and close the sandwich shut.
  • Cut in half and enjoy with your favorite hot sauce and a side of salty chips.

Why did you choose to submit this recipe?
"I am sending my version of a vegan tuna sandwich recipe to the Taste of Home collection because it's a family favorite. It swaps out tuna for a vegan blend of chickpeas and jackfruit that's so good, they think they're eating tuna fish! It's about giving my kids a plant-based twist on the classic that's both delicious and a bit kinder to our ocean friends. Here's to hoping it spices up their meal plans with homey vibes!" - Regina Pearce