Are you ready to take a flavorful journey to Vietnam right from your kitchen? Today, we’re diving into a classic dish that has captured the hearts of food lovers everywhere—Banh Mi, the delightful Vietnamese baguette! This incredible sandwich combines a crusty baguette with tantalizing fillings and fresh herbs, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite. Let’s get started on this delicious recipe!
Banh Mi, Vietnamese Baguette
This Vietnamese baguette is not just any sandwich; it’s an experience! With contrasting textures and vibrant flavors, it’s the perfect meal for any time of day. But first, let’s take a look at what you will need to craft this tasty treat.
Ingredients
- 1 French baguette
- 1/2 pound of pork pâté
- 1/2 pound of grilled pork (or chicken, or tofu for a vegetarian option)
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 daikon radish, julienned
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Thinly sliced jalapeños (adjust for spice preference)
- Mayonnaise (or a vegan alternative)
- Soy sauce, for drizzling
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by prepping your vegetables. In a bowl, mix the julienned carrot and daikon radish with a pinch of salt. Let them sit for about 10 minutes, drain, and then rinse. This quick pickle adds a refreshing crunch to your Banh Mi!
- If you’re grilling the pork or chicken, marinate it ahead of time with soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and black pepper. Grill or pan-fry until fully cooked and slightly charred.
- Next, slice your baguette in half lengthwise, but do not cut all the way through. You want it to stay intact for easy filling.
- Spread a generous layer of pork pâté on one side and mayonnaise on the other. If you’re opting for a vegetarian version, you can skip the pâté and add more fresh veggies or a slather of hummus instead!
- Layer in the grilled protein, followed by slices of cucumber. The coolness of the cucumber complements the savory pork perfectly.
- Add the quick-pickled carrots and daikon radish for that signature crunch.
- Top off your sandwich with fresh cilantro, jalapeños, and a drizzle of soy sauce for added depth of flavor.
- Close the baguette, press down gently, and slice it into manageable pieces, ready to be devoured.
Your homemade Banh Mi is now ready to enjoy! This vibrant and delicious sandwich is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a snack. The combination of flavors and textures will surely impress anyone who takes a bite. Enjoy!