Banh Mi (Vietnam)

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Bánh mì, a popular Vietnamese street food, is widely available throughout Vietnam, from bustling city streets to small alleys. Here are some of the easiest and most popular specific locations to find delicious bánh mì vendors across major cities in Vietnam:

Hanoi

  - Bánh Mì 25: 25 Hàng Cá, Hoàn Kiếm District, Hanoi. A famous spot among locals and tourists alike, known for its fresh ingredients and quick service.

  - Bánh Mì P: 12 Hàng Buồm, Hoàn Kiếm District, Hanoi. Located in the Old Quarter, this vendor is well-known for its variety of fillings.

  - Bánh Mì Bà Dần: 34 Lò Sũ, Hoàn Kiếm District, Hanoi. A small, traditional vendor offering classic northern-style bánh mì.

Ingredients:

For the Baguette:

- 4 Vietnamese-style baguettes or small French baguettes

For the Pickled Vegetables:

- 1 cup julienned carrots

- 1 cup julienned daikon radish

- 1/2 cup white vinegar

- 1/2 cup water

- 2 tbsp sugar

- 1 tsp salt

For the Meat Filling:

- 1 lb pork tenderloin, thinly sliced

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 tbsp soy sauce

- 2 tbsp fish sauce

- 1 tbsp sugar

- 1 tbsp vegetable oil

- 1 tsp black pepper

For the Sandwich Assembly:

- 1/2 cup mayonnaise

- 1 tbsp soy sauce

- 1 tbsp sriracha or other chili sauce (optional)

- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced

- Fresh cilantro leaves

- Fresh jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)

- Pâté (optional but traditional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pickled Vegetables:

1. In a bowl, mix the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt until the sugar and salt are dissolved.

2. Add the julienned carrots and daikon radish to the bowl and mix well.

3. Cover and let the vegetables pickle at room temperature for at least 1 hour. For a stronger flavor, refrigerate for several hours or overnight.

2. Marinate the Pork:

1. In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, vegetable oil, and black pepper.

2. Add the thinly sliced pork to the marinade, mixing well to coat all the pieces.

3. Cover and let the pork marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

3. Cook the Pork:

1. Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add the marinated pork slices to the grill or skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until fully cooked and slightly caramelized.

3. Remove from heat and let the pork rest for a few minutes.

4. Prepare the Baguettes:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Lightly toast the baguettes in the oven for about 5 minutes, until the outside is crispy but the inside is still soft.

5. Assemble the Sandwiches:

1. In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise with soy sauce and sriracha (if using).

2. Slice the toasted baguettes lengthwise, leaving one side attached to create a hinge.

3. Spread a layer of the mayonnaise mixture on both sides of the inside of the baguettes.

4. If using, spread a thin layer of pâté on one side of each baguette.

5. Layer the cooked pork slices inside the baguettes.

6. Add the pickled carrots and daikon radish.

7. Top with cucumber slices, fresh cilantro leaves, and jalapeño slices (if using).

Tips:

- Baguettes: For an authentic Banh Mi, use light and airy Vietnamese-style baguettes. If unavailable, small French baguettes can be used.

- Meat Variations: Banh Mi can also be made with other proteins like grilled chicken, beef, tofu, or even cold cuts.

- Pickled Vegetables: Prepare these ahead of time and store in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to develop.

- Customization: Adjust the amount of sriracha, jalapeño, and pâté to suit your taste preferences.

Banh Mi is a perfect blend of textures and flavors, from the crispy baguette and savory meat to the tangy pickled vegetables and fresh herbs. This versatile sandwich is ideal for lunch, dinner, or a hearty snack. Enjoy!

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