Banh Mi

Banh Mi

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If you’ve ever had Banh Mi, you know it’s not just a sandwich—it’s a flavor-packed experience. This Vietnamese street food classic is a beautiful fusion of crispy French baguette, savory proteins, tangy pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and a creamy, spicy spread.

Banh Mi is loved worldwide for its perfect balance of textures and flavors, and the best part? You can make it at home with simple ingredients and a few easy steps.

Banh Mi

What is Banh Mi?

Banh Mi (pronounced “bahn mee”) is a Vietnamese sandwich that dates back to the French colonial period in Vietnam. The dish combines French influences (baguette, pâté, and mayonnaise) with Vietnamese flavors (pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and seasoned meats).

It’s typically served as a quick street food meal, but it’s hearty enough for lunch or dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy & Soft – The perfect combination of a crunchy baguette with a soft, flavorful filling.

Bold Flavors – A mix of savory, tangy, sweet, and spicy in every bite.

Easy to Customize – Choose your favorite protein and toppings.

Great for Meal Prep – Make ahead and assemble quickly for a delicious meal.

Timing

  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes

  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes

  • Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients for Homemade Banh Mi

For the Pickled Vegetables

  • 1 cup julienned carrots

  • 1 cup julienned daikon radish

  • ½ cup rice vinegar

  • ½ cup water

  • 2 tablespoons sugar

  • 1 teaspoon salt

For the Meat (Choose One or Mix & Match)

Grilled Chicken

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce

  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce

  • 1 teaspoon sugar

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Pork

  • 1 cup sliced pork belly or grilled pork

  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce

  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce

  • ½ teaspoon five-spice powder

Tofu (Vegan Option)

  • 1 block firm tofu

  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce

  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

For the Sandwich

  • 2 Vietnamese baguettes (or French baguettes)

  • 4 tablespoons mayonnaise

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or Maggi seasoning

  • 1 cucumber, thinly sliced

  • ½ cup fresh cilantro

  • 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Pickled Vegetables

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

  2. Add the carrots and daikon radish.

  3. Let them sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat

For Grilled Chicken or Pork

  1. Mix soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper in a bowl.

  2. Marinate chicken thighs or pork slices for 15–30 minutes.

  3. Grill or pan-fry over medium heat until golden brown and cooked through.

For Tofu

  1. Slice tofu into ½-inch thick slabs.

  2. Marinate in soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic powder.

  3. Pan-fry until crispy on both sides.

Step 3: Prepare the Baguette

  1. Slice the baguette in half lengthwise.

  2. Lightly toast it for extra crunch.

  3. Spread mayonnaise on both sides.

  4. Drizzle a little soy sauce or Maggi seasoning for extra umami flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the Banh Mi

  1. Layer the cooked meat or tofu on the baguette.

  2. Add pickled vegetables, cucumber slices, cilantro, and jalapeños.

  3. Close the sandwich and press gently to hold everything together.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Slice in half and enjoy immediately while crispy and fresh

Banh Mi

Tips for the Best Banh Mi

How to Get a Crispy Baguette

  • Use Vietnamese baguettes if possible—they’re lighter and crispier.

  • Toast the bread lightly before assembling for extra crunch.

How to Make It Extra Flavorful

  • Use pâté for a rich, authentic flavor.

  • Marinate meats for at least 30 minutes to absorb seasonings.

  • Add a little Sriracha or chili sauce for heat.

Banh Mi Variations

Banh Mi Ga (Chicken Banh Mi)

  • Use grilled or roasted chicken thighs for a juicy texture.

Banh Mi Thit Nuong (Grilled Pork Banh Mi)

  • Made with caramelized grilled pork for a smoky, sweet flavor.

Banh Mi Chay (Vegetarian Banh Mi)

  • Uses tofu, mushrooms, or seitan instead of meat.

Banh Mi Op La (Egg Banh Mi)

  • Topped with a fried egg for a simple yet delicious breakfast version.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Banh Mi

  • Vietnamese Iced Coffee – A sweet and creamy drink to balance the flavors.

  • Pho – A warm, comforting noodle soup alongside your sandwich.

  • Spring Rolls – Fresh rice paper rolls filled with shrimp or tofu.

  • Papaya Salad – A crunchy, tangy salad that pairs perfectly with Banh Mi.

How to Store & Reheat Banh Mi

Storing Banh Mi

  • Refrigerator: Store the ingredients separately for up to 3 days.

  • Baguette: Keep at room temperature for the best texture.

Reheating Banh Mi

  • Oven: Toast at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.

  • Air Fryer: Heat at 300°F for 3–4 minutes.

  • Avoid the microwave – it can make the bread soggy

Conclusion

Banh Mi is more than just a sandwich—it’s a beautiful mix of cultures, flavors, and textures that creates an unforgettable meal. Whether you prefer grilled chicken, pork, or tofu, you can customize it to your liking and enjoy an authentic Vietnamese experience at home.