Vietnamese Banh Mi 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Vietnamese Banh Mi is a culinary masterpiece that offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The crispy and airy French baguette is stuffed with flavorful meats or tofu, fresh vegetables, pickled carrots and daikon, cilantro, and a spicy kick from chilies or mayonnaise. It’s a sandwich that brings together contrasting elements in the best way possible. The versatility of Banh Mi makes it easy to customize to your taste, whether you like it spicy, mild, or packed with extra herbs. Perfect for a quick meal, this sandwich will leave you craving more!

Ingredients

• 1 baguette (Vietnamese-style or French baguette)

• 1/2 lb pork belly, grilled chicken, or tofu (depending on preference)

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or fish sauce)

• 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced

• 1/4 cup pickled carrots and daikon (see below for pickling instructions)

• Fresh cilantro leaves

• 1-2 fresh jalapeño or Thai bird chilies, sliced (optional)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pickled Carrots and Daikon:

• 1/2 cup julienned carrots

• 1/2 cup julienned daikon radish

• 1/2 cup rice vinegar

• 1/4 cup sugar

• 1/4 cup water

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Make the Pickled Vegetables:

• In a small bowl, combine the rice vinegar, sugar, water, and salt. Stir until the sugar dissolves.

• Add the julienned carrots and daikon to the vinegar mixture, making sure they’re fully submerged.

• Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight) to allow the flavors to develop.

2. Prepare the Protein:

• If using pork belly or chicken, season with salt and pepper, then grill or pan-fry with olive oil until cooked through. Slice thinly.

• For tofu, press to remove excess moisture, then cut into slices and pan-fry with a little olive oil until golden and crispy. Season with soy sauce or fish sauce.

3. Prepare the Baguette:

• Slice the baguette horizontally, but don’t cut all the way through—leave it attached on one side.

• Toast the baguette lightly in the oven or on a grill until it’s crispy on the outside but still soft inside.

4. Assemble the Banh Mi:

• Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise inside the baguette.

• Add the protein of your choice, followed by the pickled carrots and daikon, cucumber slices, and fresh cilantro.

• For an extra kick, add slices of jalapeño or bird chilies.

• Drizzle with soy sauce or fish sauce for added flavor.

5. Serve:

• Close the baguette and slice into individual servings. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2 sandwiches

• Prep time: 20 minutes (excluding pickling time)

• Cook time: 10-15 minutes

• Total time: 30-35 minutes (with pickling time)

Variations

1. Chicken Banh Mi: Substitute the pork with grilled or roasted chicken for a lighter variation.

2. Vegetarian Banh Mi: Use tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version, and add extra veggies like avocado for creaminess.

3. Spicy Banh Mi: Add more chilies or mix chili paste into the mayonnaise for a spicier version.

4. Grilled Vegetables: Add grilled eggplant, bell peppers, or zucchini for a smoky, savory flavor.

5. Shrimp Banh Mi: Substitute the protein with shrimp for a seafood twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Banh Mi is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, store the ingredients separately. The pickled vegetables, protein, and sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store the baguette separately to keep it from becoming soggy.

• Reheating: If you need to reheat, warm the baguette in the oven before assembling the sandwich again.

FAQs

1. Can I use a regular baguette if I can’t find a Vietnamese baguette?

Yes, you can use any crusty baguette, though a Vietnamese-style baguette is typically lighter and airier due to its different flour ratio.

2. Can I use a different type of protein?

Absolutely! You can use grilled chicken, pork belly, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. The possibilities are endless!

3. How do I make my own pickled vegetables?

To make pickled carrots and daikon, simply combine rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and water, then refrigerate the vegetables for at least an hour. This can be done ahead of time.

4. Can I prepare Banh Mi ahead of time?

It’s best to assemble the sandwich just before serving to keep the bread crispy. However, you can prepare the pickled vegetables, protein, and mayo in advance.

5. Can I make Banh Mi without fish sauce?

Yes, you can substitute fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari for a vegetarian or vegan option.

6. What if I don’t like spicy food?

If you’re not a fan of spice, you can leave out the chilies or opt for milder options like bell peppers or sweet pickles.

7. Can I use mayonnaise alternatives?

If you prefer, you can use vegan mayo or make your own mayo with olive oil, egg, and mustard for a healthier version.

8. What other vegetables can I add to Banh Mi?

You can add lettuce, cucumber, or even radishes for extra crunch and freshness.

9. Is Banh Mi gluten-free?

Traditional Banh Mi uses a baguette, which contains gluten. To make a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread or wraps.

10. Can I freeze Banh Mi sandwiches?

It’s best to eat Banh Mi fresh, as the bread will lose its crispness once frozen. However, you can freeze the pickled vegetables and proteins separately and assemble the sandwich fresh.

Conclusion

The Vietnamese Banh Mi is a flavorful, satisfying sandwich that combines the best of fresh ingredients, savory proteins, and tangy pickled vegetables. Whether you choose to fill it with pork, chicken, tofu, or shrimp, the Banh Mi offers a burst of flavors with each bite. It’s a versatile and easy-to-make meal that can be enjoyed any time of day, and its unique blend of textures will leave you craving more.