How to Make the Perfect Banh Mi Vietnamese Sandwich
Vietnamese · Medium · 45 min · 2 servings
This iconic Vietnamese street food combines crispy French baguette with savory pork, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs for an explosion of flavors. The balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy makes it one of the most satisfying sandwiches in the world.
Why this recipe works
This Banh Mi Vietnamese Sandwich recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 45 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 520 calories with 28g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 2 pieces Vietnamese baguette or French baguette
- 200 grams pork belly sliced thin
- 1 cup daikon radish julienned
- 1 cup carrots julienned
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 0.5 cup fresh cilantro sprigs
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Pickle the Vegetables
Combine julienned daikon and carrots in a bowl with 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1 teaspoon of salt. Pour 0.5 cup of rice vinegar over the mixture and let it sit for at least 20 minutes until softened and tangy.
Step 2: Cook the Pork
Season pork belly slices with soy sauce, garlic, and a pinch of sugar. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the pork for 3 to 4 minutes per side until caramelized and cooked through.
Step 3: Prepare the Bread
Slice the baguettes lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Spread mayonnaise generously on both inner sides of the bread. Optionally toast the bread in the oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 3 minutes for extra crispiness.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Layer the cooked pork onto the bread, followed by the pickled vegetables and fresh cilantro. Add sliced chili peppers for heat if desired. Press the sandwich gently together and serve immediately while the bread is still crispy.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- pork belly → grilled chicken thighs or firm tofu for a vegetarian option
- daikon radish → thinly sliced cucumber for a milder crunch
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Using a soft sandwich loaf instead of a crusty baguette which ruins the authentic texture
- Not allowing the vegetables enough time to pickle properly resulting in bland raw flavor
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 520 calories, 28g protein, 58g carbs, 18g fat, 4g fiber.
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