Banh Mi

Fork n Fly
May 6, 2024
2 min read

Originating from Vietnam, Banh Mi is a beloved street food sensation that has captivated foodies worldwide. This delectable sandwich combines French colonial influences with Vietnamese culinary traditions, resulting in a mouthwatering fusion of flavors and textures. Perfect for adventurous eaters and street food enthusiasts, Banh Mi is a tantalizing combination of crusty baguette, tender grilled meats (such as pork, chicken, or tofu), crisp fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, and a medley of zesty condiments. Each bite offers a symphony of savory, sweet, tangy, and spicy notes, creating a culinary experience that is both satisfying and unforgettable. Whether enjoyed as a quick grab-and-go snack or a hearty meal, Banh Mi is sure to delight your taste buds and transport you to the bustling streets of Vietnam with its irresistible flavors.

Ingredients:

Baguette (1 piece)
Pork tenderloin or chicken breast (7-8 ounces)
Fish sauce (2 tablespoons)
Soy sauce (1 tablespoon)
Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
Sugar (1 tablespoon)
Rice vinegar (2 tablespoons)
Carrots (1 large, matchsticks)
Daikon radish (1/2 large, julienned)
Cucumber (1 medium, thinly sliced)
Fresh cilantro (a handful)
Jalapeño peppers (2, thinly sliced)
Mayonnaise (2 tablespoons)
Sriracha sauce (1 tablespoon)
Soy sauce (1 tablespoon)

Instructions:

Marinate the pork or chicken: In a bowl, mix together the fish sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and sugar. Add the pork or chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Pickle the vegetables: In a separate bowl, combine the rice vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add the matchsticks carrots and daikon radish, and let them pickle for about 30 minutes.
Grill the pork or chicken: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the marinated pork or chicken until cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Prepare the baguette: Cut the baguette lengthwise, but not all the way through. Toast it lightly in the oven or on a grill until crispy.
Assemble the Banh Mi: Spread mayonnaise on one side of the baguette and sriracha sauce on the other. Layer the grilled pork or chicken slices on one side of the baguette. Top with pickled carrots and daikon, sliced cucumber, fresh cilantro, and jalapeño slices.
Drizzle with soy sauce for extra flavor.
Close the sandwich and press gently to compact the ingredients.
Slice the Banh Mi diagonally and serve immediately.