Introduction
Banh Mi, a beloved Vietnamese sandwich, harmoniously combines the special flavors of pickled vegetables, savory meats, and a medley of fresh herbs. This delightful treat is not only satisfying but also showcases the vibrant and robust culinary traditions of Vietnam. The pickled vegetables add a tangy crunch, while the chicken and spreads provide rich, creamy textures. Let’s explore the ingredients that bring this remarkable dish to life.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Pickled Vegetables:
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and cut into 2-3mm batons
– 1/2 large white radish (daikon), peeled and cut similarly to carrots
– 1 1/2 cups boiling water
– 1/2 cup white sugar
– 4 teaspoons cooking/kosher salt
– 3/4 cup rice wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
Banh Mi:
– 4 crusty white rolls (~20cm/8″)
– 2–3 tablespoons salted butter
– 120g (4 oz) chicken pate (or preferred pate)
– 4 tablespoons whole egg mayonnaise or Kewpie
– 4 cups (400g/14 oz) shredded chicken (from a small store-bought or homemade brined roast chicken, or poached breast)
– 2–3 green onion stems, cut to bread roll length (3 pieces per Banh Mi)
– 1 cucumber, thinly sliced lengthwise (2 slices per Banh Mi)
– 1 1/2 cups (lightly packed) coriander/cilantro sprigs
– 1/4 teaspoon Maggi seasoning per Banh Mi
– 2–3 bird’s eye or Thai red chilies, finely sliced
Prep Time
Approximately 15 minutes for initial preparation of pickled vegetables and sandwich ingredients.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (includes pickling time)
Yield: 4 Banh Mi sandwiches
With these ingredients, you’re ready to assemble delicious Banh Mi sandwiches that pack a traditional Vietnamese punch in every bite! Enjoy the flavors and textures that make this dish a favorite around the world.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Pickled Vegetables
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the salt and sugar in 1 1/2 cups of boiling water by stirring until completely mixed.
2. Stir in 3/4 cup of rice wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar) until well combined.
3. Add the prepared carrot and daikon batons to the bowl, ensuring that they are mostly submerged in the brine.
4. Allow the mixture to stand for 2 hours at room temperature until the vegetables become slightly floppy.
5. Once ready, drain the pickled vegetables well before using them in the sandwich.
Banh Mi Assembly
1. Begin by splitting each crusty white roll in half, being careful not to cut all the way through; the roll should still be connected at one side.
2. Take 2–3 tablespoons of salted butter and spread it evenly on the inside of the top half of the roll.
3. On the bottom half, generously spread 1 to 2 tablespoons of chicken pate, followed by an additional 1 1/2 tablespoons of mayonnaise.
4. Layer the shredded chicken in a pile, then drizzle 1/4 teaspoon of Maggi seasoning over the top.
5. Add a generous amount of the prepared pickled vegetables on top of the chicken, followed by 2 slices of cucumber and 3 pieces of green onion.
6. Tuck in a handful of fresh coriander or cilantro sprigs for added flavor.
7. Finish by sprinkling as much fresh chili (2–3 finely sliced bird’s eye or Thai red chilies) as desired, then close the sandwich securely.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy your Banh Mi!
Notes
Pickled Vegetables
– Allowing the pickled vegetables to sit for the full 2 hours enhances their flavor and texture, making them more enjoyable in the sandwich.
Banh Mi
– To save time, the pickled vegetables can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
– Feel free to adjust the amount of chili according to your spice preference.
– You can substitute the chicken with other proteins such as pork, tofu, or shrimp for a variation.
Cook Techniques
Pickling
Pickling involves immersing vegetables in a solution of vinegar, sugar, and salt, facilitating preservation and enhancing flavor. The choice of vinegar influences the acidity and overall taste.
Spreading
Spreading is a technique used to evenly apply butter and mayonnaise to the surface of the bread. This not only adds flavor but also acts as a barrier, preventing the bread from becoming soggy.
Layering
Layering entails stacking ingredients in a thoughtful order to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. In Banh Mi, starting with pate and mayonnaise followed by chicken, vegetables, and aromatics provides a balanced bite.
Slicing
Slicing vegetables, such as cucumber and green onion, should be done thinly to enhance texture and facilitate easier biting into the sandwich, ensuring an even distribution of flavor.
Drizzling
Drizzling involves gently pouring a small amount of sauce or seasoning over the ingredients, such as Maggi seasoning, to enhance flavor without overwhelming the dish.
FAQ
How long should I let the pickled vegetables sit?
The pickled vegetables should sit for at least 2 hours to become slightly floppy and absorb the flavors of the pickling solution.
Can I use a different type of vinegar for the pickling process?
Yes, rice wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be used, depending on your flavor preference.
What type of bread is best for Banh Mi?
Crusty white rolls around 20cm (8 inches) long are ideal for Banh Mi, as they provide a crunchy texture that complements the fillings.
Can I substitute chicken with another protein?
Yes, you can replace chicken with other proteins like tofu, pork, or beef to suit your dietary preferences.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the Banh Mi?
To adjust spiciness, you can add more or fewer bird’s eye chilies or use a milder chili variety to control the heat level.
Conclusion
The Banh Mi sandwich, enriched with pickled vegetables, offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The combination of savory chicken, creamy mayonnaise, and the tangy crunch of pickled carrots and daikon creates a deliciously satisfying meal. This Vietnamese classic is not only easy to prepare but also customizable, allowing you to cater to various tastes.
Variations with Different Proteins
Consider substituting shredded chicken with grilled pork, tofu, or beef for a twist on the traditional Banh Mi.
Spicy Alternatives
Add sriracha or chili garlic sauce in place of the Maggi seasoning for an extra kick, or combine with jalapeños for added heat.
Vegetable Additions
Incorporate sliced bell peppers, radishes, or avocados to add more freshness and variety to your sandwich.
Changing the Bread
Try using whole grain or gluten-free rolls for a healthier option, or even a baguette for a more authentic approach.
Pickle Variations
Experiment with different types of pickled vegetables, such as cucumber, onion, or even pickled jalapeños, for unique flavor profiles.
