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The Bánh mì is a world-famous Vietnamese sandwich that beautifully blends French and Vietnamese culinary traditions. Built on a crisp, airy baguette, it’s typically filled with savory meats like grilled pork, chicken, or pâté, then balanced with pickled vegetables, fresh cucumber, cilantro, and a touch of chili or spicy mayo. Light, flavorful, and refreshing, the Bánh mì is more than just a sandwich—it’s a cultural icon and a street food favorite that has gained global recognition.
Ingredient
For the Pickled Vegetables:
| Daikon Radish | ½ cup (sliced into matchsticks) |
|---|---|
| Carrots | ½ cup (sliced into matchsticks) |
| Warm Water | 1 cup (240ml) |
| Granulated Sugar | 3 tablespoons |
| Distilled White Vinegar | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast | 1 (sliced into thin strips) |
|---|---|
| Minced Lemongrass (fresh or paste) | 1 teaspoon |
| Minced Garlic | 1 clove |
| Soy Sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Brown Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Neutral Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Vietnamese Baguette or French Bread | 1 (about 6-8 inches long) |
|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | 1-2 tablespoons |
| Maggi Seasoning or Soy Sauce | 1 teaspoon |
| Cucumber, thinly sliced | ¼ cup |
| Fresh Cilantro, a small handful | ¼ cup |
| Fresh Jalapeño, thinly sliced | To taste (optional) |
Cooking Steps
Step 1: Make the Pickled Vegetables
- In a small jar, combine the warm water, granulated sugar, distilled white vinegar, and salt. Stir until the sugar and salt dissolve.
- Add the daikon and carrot matchsticks. Ensure they are submerged in the liquid.
- Seal the jar and let the vegetables pickle for at least 30 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Marinate and Cook the Chicken
- In a small bowl, combine the sliced chicken, minced lemongrass, minced garlic, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Heat a skillet or grill pan with 1 teaspoon of oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated chicken strips and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are cooked through and slightly caramelized.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
- Slice the baguette lengthwise, but do not cut all the way through.
- Lightly toast the baguette in a warm oven or a dry skillet for 1-2 minutes until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
- Spread a layer of mayonnaise on both cut sides of the baguette. Drizzle the Maggi seasoning or soy sauce over the mayonnaise.
- Arrange the sliced cucumber on the bottom half of the baguette.
- Pile the warm lemongrass chicken over the cucumber.
- Drain the pickled daikon and carrots and place a generous amount on top of the chicken.
- Add the fresh cilantro and jalapeño slices (if using) on top of the pickled vegetables.
- Close the sandwich and enjoy immediately.
Extra Tips for a Perfect Bánh Mì
- The Bread is Key: A classic Vietnamese baguette is light and airy with a thin, crispy crust. If you can't find one, a soft French baguette or a good-quality sub roll will work.
- Customize Your Protein: You can easily swap the chicken for thinly sliced grilled steak or firm tofu for a vegetarian version.
- The Pickles: Don't skip the pickled vegetables! They provide the signature tangy crunch that makes a Bánh Mì so special.
- The Spreads: Maggi seasoning is a key flavor for Bánh Mì. A small amount adds a deep, savory, umami flavor.
Nutritional Value
Approximate (per sandwich)
| Calories | 500-700 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 30-40 grams |
| Fat | 20-35 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 40-60 grams |
| Fiber | 4-6 grams |
Benefits
- ✅ Flavor Fusion: Combines savory meats, tangy pickles, fresh herbs, and crusty bread.
- ✅ Nutritious & Balanced: Offers protein, vegetables, and carbs in one meal.
- ✅ Customizable Fillings: Can be made with chicken, beef, tofu, or even eggs for variety.
- ✅ Light Yet Satisfying: A refreshing option compared to heavy sandwiches.
- ✅ Cultural Experience: Offers an authentic taste of Vietnamese street food at home.
The Bánh mì is more than just a sandwich—it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and cultural heritage. With its crisp baguette, savory fillings, and vibrant toppings, it delivers a unique eating experience that’s both light and satisfying. Whether you enjoy it as a quick street snack or as a homemade specialty, the Bánh mì is a must-try dish that showcases the best of Vietnamese cuisine.