Classic Vietnamese Bánh Mì (Crispy Baguette Sandwich)
Crisp and airy Vietnamese baguette filled with savory caramelized lemongrass pork, rich liver pâté, pickled daikon & carrots, fresh cucumber spears, cilantro, and chili.
Ingredients
For the Lemongrass Pork
- 500g pork tenderloin or boneless pork shoulder, thinly sliced
- 2 stalks lemongrass, white parts finely minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fish sauce (nước mắm)
- 1.5 tbsp brown sugar or sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
For the Pickled Daikon & Carrots (Đồ Chua)
- 1 large carrot, cut into matchsticks
- 1 small daikon radish, cut into matchsticks
- 1/2 cup rice vinegar or white vinegar
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
For Assembling the Bánh Mì
- 4 fresh French-Vietnamese baguettes (light and crusty)
- 4 tbsp French pork liver pâté or mushroom pâté
- 4 tbsp Kewpie mayonnaise or butter-mayo spread
- 1 English cucumber, sliced lengthwise into spears
- 1 bunch fresh cilantro (coriander)
- 1 red bird's eye chili or jalapeño, thinly sliced
- A few dashes of Maggi seasoning sauce or soy sauce
Instructions
Make Quick Pickles (Đồ Chua)
Toss carrot and daikon matchsticks with salt and sugar. Pour in vinegar and warm water, stirring until dissolved. Let pickle for at least 20 minutes.
Marinate the Pork
In a bowl, mix minced lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, and oil. Coat sliced pork thoroughly and marinate for 20-30 minutes.
Grill / Sear the Pork
Cook pork in a hot skillet or grill over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side until beautifully charred and caramelized.
Warm the Baguettes
Warm the baguettes in a 180°C (350°F) oven for 3 minutes until the crust is super crispy and delicate.
Assemble the Sandwich
Slice baguettes lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Spread mayonnaise on one side and pâté on the other. Layer with grilled pork, cucumber spears, drained pickled carrots and daikon, fresh cilantro sprigs, and chili slices. Finish with a few drops of Maggi seasoning and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
* Based on a 2,000 calorie diet.