Banh Mi Sandwich Recipe
Banh Mi Sandwich Recipe
Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Look no further than the Banh Mi sandwich. This Vietnamese gem is bursting with flavors and textures, making it an irresistible meal option for any day of the week. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this Banh Mi sandwich recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress your taste buds.
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 500g pork shoulder (1.1 lb)
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
For the Pickled Vegetables:
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 daikon radish, julienned
- 1/2 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Sandwich:
- Baguette or French roll
- Cucumber, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Fresh mint leaves
- Jalapeno peppers, thinly sliced
- Maggi sauce or mayonnaise (optional)
Directions
- Start by marinating the pork shoulder. In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, soy sauce, fish sauce, honey, vegetable oil, and five-spice powder. Mix well.
- Place the pork shoulder in a sealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it. Massage the marinade into the pork to ensure even coating. Seal the bag and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
- While the pork is marinating, prepare the pickled vegetables. In a bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until the sugar and salt dissolve. Add the julienned carrot and daikon radish, and toss to coat. Let the vegetables sit in the pickling liquid for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Remove the marinated pork from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes.
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the pork for about 3-4 minutes per side, until it is nicely charred and cooked through. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.
- Slice the baguette or French roll horizontally, leaving one side attached to create a pocket. Scoop out some of the bread from the center to make room for the fillings.
- If desired, spread a thin layer of Maggi sauce or mayonnaise on the inside of the bread.
- Layer the sliced cucumber, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs in the bread pocket. Top with the sliced grilled pork.
- Add a few slices of jalapeno peppers for some heat, or adjust the amount according to your preference.
- Serve the Banh Mi sandwich immediately and enjoy!
Notes/Tips
- To give your Banh Mi sandwich an extra kick, add a drizzle of sriracha sauce or hoisin sauce.
- Don’t have pork shoulder? You can substitute it with grilled chicken, beef, or tofu for a vegetarian version.
- If you like your Banh Mi extra crunchy, lightly toast the baguette or French roll before assembling the sandwich.
- Feel free to customize your Banh Mi sandwich with other toppings like sliced radish, bean sprouts, or even a fried egg.
Conclusion
The Banh Mi sandwich is a culinary delight that combines the vibrant flavors of Vietnam in one delicious package. With its tender marinated pork, pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and crusty bread, it’s no wonder that this sandwich has gained popularity worldwide. Whether you’re craving a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, give this Banh Mi sandwich recipe a try and experience a burst of flavors that will transport you straight to the streets of Vietnam.
FAQ
Q: Can I make the pickled vegetables ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The pickled vegetables can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. The longer they sit, the more flavorful they become.
Q: Can I use a different type of bread?
A: While a traditional baguette or French roll is commonly used for Banh Mi sandwiches, you can certainly experiment with other bread options. Ciabatta or a sturdy whole-grain bread can be great alternatives.
Q: Is it possible to make a vegetarian version of the Banh Mi sandwich?
A: Yes! You can substitute the pork with grilled tofu, tempeh, or even marinated portobello mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian Banh Mi sandwich.
Q: What other sauces can I use in the sandwich?
A: In addition to Maggi sauce or mayonnaise, you can try adding sriracha sauce, hoisin sauce, or even peanut sauce for a different flavor profile.
Q: Can I freeze the leftover grilled pork?
A: Yes, you can freeze the grilled pork in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator and reheat it before assembling your Banh Mi sandwich.
