Authentic Bánh Mì Recipe | Vietnamese sandwich Recipe

Bánh Mì is a delectable Vietnamese sandwich that harmoniously blends French and Vietnamese culinary influences. It typically consists of a crispy baguette filled with a variety of savory ingredients like pickled vegetables (carrots, daikon), cilantro, cucumber, chili peppers, mayonnaise or pâté, and a choice of protein such as grilled pork, chicken, tofu, or Vietnamese cold cuts.

What makes Bánh Mì truly special is its fusion of flavors and textures - the crusty bread contrasts with the tender fillings while the tanginess of the pickled vegetables complements the richness of the protein. This iconic street food represents the cultural diversity and culinary innovation of Vietnam, earning it worldwide acclaim for its deliciousness and uniqueness. Here is a recipe of Bánh Mì:  

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Ingredients of Bánh Mì:

For the pickled vegetables:

• 1 cup julienned carrots
• 1 cup julienned daikon radish
• 1 cup warm water
• 1/2 cup rice vinegar
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the sandwich:

• 1 (12 inch) Baguette or French bread rolls
• Mayonnaise or pâté
• ¼ cup thinly Sliced cucumber
• 1 tablespoon Fresh cilantro leaves
• Thinly sliced chili peppers (optional)
• Protein of your choice (grilled pork, chicken, tofu, or Vietnamese cold cuts)

Instructions of Making Bánh Mì:

1. Prepare the pickled vegetables:

• Combine warm water, rice vinegar, sugar and salt In a bowl. Stir until the sugar and salt dissolve.
• Add the julienned carrots and daikon radish to the mixture, ensuring they are submerged. Allow it to pickle for at least 30 minutes or longer in the refrigerator.

2. Prepare the protein:

• Cook your chosen protein (grilled pork, chicken, tofu, etc.) according to your preference. Season it with Vietnamese flavors like lemongrass, garlic, soy sauce, or fish sauce for an authentic taste.

3. Assemble the Bánh Mì:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Slice the baguette or French bread rolls in half lengthwise and lightly toast them in the oven for a few minutes until they are slightly crispy.
• Spread a layer of mayonnaise or pâté on the inside of the bread.

4. Layer the sandwich with:

• Pickled vegetables (drain excess liquid)
• Sliced cucumber
• Fresh cilantro leaves
• Thinly sliced chili peppers for added heat (if desired)
• The prepared protein

5. Serving of Bánh Mì:

• Close the sandwich and press gently to combine the flavors.
• Serve the Bánh Mì immediately and enjoy!

Feel free to customize your Bánh Mì with additional toppings or sauces to suit your taste preferences. The beauty of Banh Mi lies in its versatility, so don't hesitate to experiment with different ingredients!

You can also read this Vietnamese noodles recipe: Cao Lầu Recipe | Vietnamese Noodle Bowl

 Recipe Card

Cuisine: Vietnamese, Prep Time: 30 minutes, Cook Time: 20 minutes, Total Time: 50 minutes, Servings: 2