Get ready to transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Vietnam with this mouthwatering Banh Mi sandwich that's about to become your new obsession! Imagine biting into a perfectly crisp baguette filled with succulent marinated pork, tangy pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs – a culinary adventure that combines bold flavors and textures in one incredible sandwich. Whether you're a foodie looking to impress or simply craving something extraordinary, this Banh Mi recipe will revolutionize your lunch game and leave you craving more with every single bite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 baguettes
- 1 lb pork tenderloin
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- Fresh cilantro
- Mayonnaise
Instructions
- Marinate the pork tenderloin by combining soy sauce and sugar in a bowl, whisking until sugar dissolves completely. Place pork in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Prepare the pickled vegetables by julienning the carrot and slicing cucumber into thin strips. In a separate bowl, mix vinegar, sugar, and salt to create a quick pickle brine. Soak carrots and cucumbers in the brine for 15-20 minutes to develop flavor.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove pork from marinade and pat dry with paper towels. Sear the tenderloin in a hot skillet with olive oil on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Transfer seared pork to a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing thinly.
- Slice baguettes lengthwise and lightly toast in the oven until crisp and golden, about 3-4 minutes.
- Spread a generous layer of mayonnaise on both sides of the toasted baguette. Layer sliced roasted pork, pickled carrots and cucumbers, and fresh cilantro leaves.
- Slice sandwiches diagonally and serve immediately while bread is still warm and crisp.
Tips
- Marination Magic: For the most flavorful pork, marinate overnight if possible. The longer the meat sits in the soy sauce and sugar mixture, the more intense the flavor will be.
- Pickle Perfection: Don't rush the pickling process. Let your carrots and cucumbers sit in the brine for at least 15 minutes to develop that signature tangy crunch.
- Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork is cooked perfectly – 145°F (63°C) is the sweet spot for juicy, tender meat.
- Bread is Key: Choose a fresh, crusty baguette and toast it lightly to create that essential crispy exterior that makes Banh Mi so irresistible.
- Fresh Herbs are Non-Negotiable: Don't skimp on fresh cilantro – it's the secret weapon that brings the entire sandwich to life.
- Serve Immediately: Banh Mi is best enjoyed right after assembling, while the bread is still warm and crisp, and the ingredients are at their peak flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 75mg
