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Classic Banh Mi Sandwich Recipe

classic banh mi sandwich recipe - featured image

A flavorful Vietnamese sandwich featuring a crunchy baguette, pickled veggies, tender pork, fresh herbs, and spicy mayo. Easy to make at home and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 light, airy French baguette (about 1012 inches) with a crisp crust
  • 8 oz pork shoulder or pork loin, thinly sliced (or grilled pork belly or chicken thighs)
  • 1 cup daikon radish, julienned
  • 1 cup carrot, julienned
  • 1/2 cup white vinegar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 3 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • handful of cilantro leaves, washed and patted dry
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp Sriracha or favorite chili sauce
  • 1 tsp lime juice
  • 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce or Maggi seasoning
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • Optional: sliced jalapeños, pâté, splash of fish sauce

Instructions

  1. Make the pickled vegetables: In a bowl, combine 1/2 cup white vinegar, 1/2 cup water, 3 tablespoons sugar, and 1 teaspoon salt. Stir until sugar dissolves. Add julienned daikon and carrot, toss well. Let sit at room temperature for at least 1 hour or refrigerate overnight.
  2. Prepare the pork marinade: In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon soy sauce, minced garlic, and a pinch of black pepper. Add thinly sliced pork and toss to coat. Marinate for 10-15 minutes.
  3. Make the spicy mayo: Combine 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon Sriracha, and 1 teaspoon lime juice in a small bowl. Mix until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to use.
  4. Cook the pork: Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated pork in a single layer. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until cooked through and caramelized. Remove from heat.
  5. Prepare the baguette: Slice lengthwise without cutting all the way through, leaving a hinge. Toast lightly in oven or skillet until crust is crisp and inside is warm.
  6. Assemble the sandwich: Spread spicy mayo on both sides of the bread. Layer cooked pork, drained pickled veggies, cucumber slices, cilantro, and jalapeños if using. Close sandwich and press lightly.
  7. Serve immediately for best crunch and freshness. Optionally, add a small drizzle of soy sauce or Maggi seasoning inside for extra umami.

Notes

Marinate pork briefly to keep it tender. Do not overcrowd pan when cooking pork. Pickled veggies can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight for better flavor. Toast baguette lightly to avoid hard crust. Assemble sandwich just before eating to keep crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: banh mi, Vietnamese sandwich, pork sandwich, pickled vegetables, spicy mayo, easy sandwich recipe