There’s a special kind of joy that comes from creating a meal that transcends the mundane—like stepping away from dreary takeout and diving into the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese street food. Enter the Banh Mi Sandwich, a delightful fusion of savory pork tenderloin, crisp pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs, all nestled within a perfectly toasted baguette. This recipe has graced my kitchen anytime I’m seeking comfort and excitement at the same time.
Just the thought of marinated pork grilling on the barbecue brings a smile to my face as the tantalizing aroma fills the air. The contrast of the crunchy, tangy pickled vegetables against the tender, flavorful meat is pure magic. And the best part? You won’t spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. With just a little prep work and some marinating time, you can whip up these impressive sandwiches that will leave your family or guests raving for more.
Join me as we embark on a delicious adventure that promises to breathe new life into your meal routine. These Banh Mi Sandwiches aren’t just food; they’re an experience waiting to happen!
Why Love Banh Mi Sandwiches?
Flavor explosion in every bite—these sandwiches are a symphony of tastes, from the savory marinated pork to the tangy pickled veggies. Ease of preparation means they fit perfectly into your busy schedule; a little marinating, and you’re set! Crowd-pleaser status ensures that everyone at the table will be coming back for seconds. Versatile enough to customize with your favorite toppings—think extra herbs or a spicy kick! Perfect for elevating your home cooking game, these Banh Mi Sandwiches are the ideal remedy for fast food fatigue. Discover how easy and satisfying they can be with this delightful recipe!
Banh Mi Sandwich Ingredients
Get ready to assemble a flavor-packed feast at home with these Banh Mi Sandwich essentials!
For the Pork Marinade
- Pork tenderloin – a lean cut that absorbs marinades beautifully.
- Shallots – add a mild sweetness that complements the pork.
- Lemongrass – infuses a bright, citrusy flavor that’s the heart of Vietnamese cuisine.
- Fish sauce – delivers that umami punch vital for authentic taste.
- Oyster sauce – brings depth and richness to the marinade.
- Lime juice – a zesty touch that balances the savory notes.
- Pure maple syrup – adds subtle sweetness to enhance the flavors.
- Brown sugar – helps caramelize the pork during grilling.
- Ginger – introduces warmth and spice; use fresh or ground based on availability.
- Garlic – infuses aromatic goodness that pairs perfectly with pork.
- Toasted sesame oil – a nutty flavor that elevates the overall taste.
- Vegetable or canola oil – for marinating and cooking without overpowering the pork.
- Asian chili sauce – provides just the right amount of heat; your choice of Sriracha or Sambal Oelek works here.
- Ground coriander – offers a unique, warm spice to the blend.
- Chinese 5 spice – layers in complexity, enhancing the savory profile.
For the Pickled Vegetables
- Rice vinegar – the secret to that tangy crunch in your sandwiches.
- Water – balances the vinegar for perfect pickling.
- Sugar – counteracts the acidity for a balanced flavor.
- Salt – aids in the pickling process and enhances taste.
- Matchstick carrots – add a sweet and crisp texture; the vibrant color brightens your dish.
- Daikon – lends a mild sweetness; can be substituted with radishes if preferred.
For Assembling
- Mayonnaise – creamy base to smooth out the flavors of the sandwich.
- Additional Asian chili sauce – for those who like an extra kick!
- Soft French baguettes – serve as the delightful, crusty vessel for all these flavors.
- Pâté (optional) – a gourmet touch that adds richness.
- English cucumber – for a refreshing crunch and cooling effect.
- Jalapeños – provide a spicy zing to set your taste buds dancing.
- Fresh cilantro leaves – the final touch for a burst of freshness.
- Maggi seasoning (optional) – drizzle this magic ingredient for enhanced umami.
With these ingredients, you’re on your way to creating irresistible Banh Mi Sandwiches that will whisk your taste buds away on a culinary journey!
How to Make Banh Mi Sandwiches
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Prepare pickled vegetables: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine rice vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Microwave until boiling, then whisk to dissolve the sugar completely.
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Submerge vegetables: Place the matchstick carrots and daikon into a large mason jar or bowl. Pour your hot vinegar mixture over the veggies, pressing down to ensure they’re fully submerged. Let them cool to room temperature for 30 minutes before sealing and refrigerating.
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Marinate the pork: Slice each tenderloin in half and then into long 1/4-inch slices. Cover with plastic wrap and gently pound to about 1/8-inch thickness for tenderness.
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Blend marinade: In a blender, combine lemongrass, fish sauce, oyster sauce, lime juice, maple syrup, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, vegetable oil, chili sauce, ground coriander, and Chinese 5 spice. Blend until smooth and well combined.
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Combine pork and marinade: Place the pork slices and marinade in a freezer bag or shallow dish. Seal tightly and allow the pork to marinate in the fridge for 4-8 hours for maximum flavor.
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Toast the baguettes: Preheat a grill or your oven and toast the baguette rolls for about 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
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Grill the pork: Preheat your grill or grill pan. Allow the marinated pork to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes, then grill in batches for around 2 minutes per side, or just until cooked through. Transfer the pork to a plate to rest.
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Prepare the spread: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and additional chili sauce if desired. Spread this delicious mixture on both halves of your toasted rolls. If you’re feeling fancy, smear some pâté on the bottom half.
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Assemble sandwiches: Layer the sandwiches with sliced pork, your tangy pickled vegetables, cucumber slices, jalapeño slices, and fresh cilantro. Drizzle with Maggi seasoning for that umami kick and serve immediately.
Optional: Add extra sliced jalapeños for a spicier sandwich experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Banh Mi Sandwiches are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the pickled vegetables up to 3 days in advance, allowing their flavors to deepen and develop. Simply refrigerate them in an airtight container after they cool. The pork can be marinated up to 24 hours ahead; just ensure the marinade coats the slices evenly for maximum flavor absorption. When ready to serve, simply grill the marinated pork (allow it to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before grilling) and toast the baguettes. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality Banh Mi Sandwiches with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Banh Mi Sandwiches
Fridge: Store leftover Banh Mi Sandwiches wrapped in plastic or in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep pickled vegetables separate for optimal crunch.
Freezer: Unassemble the sandwiches and place individual parts in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. This allows you to enjoy fresh Banh Mi any time!
Reheating: To reheat, briefly grill or pan-sear the pork and toast the baguettes before assembling with fresh toppings. This keeps the flavors vibrant and satisfying.
Pickled Vegetables: These can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks in a sealed jar, ready to add an extra zing to your meals or future sandwiches!
Expert Tips for Banh Mi Sandwiches
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Pork Tenderness: Ensure you pound the pork to 1/8-inch thickness; this helps it cook faster and stay juicy, avoiding overcooking.
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Marinating Time: Don’t rush the marinating process—allow 4-8 hours for the richest flavors. If in a hurry, even an hour can make a difference!
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Pickled Vegetables Prep: Always let your pickled veggies cool completely before sealing them in the fridge to maintain their crunch and freshness.
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Choosing Baguettes: Opt for soft, crusty French baguettes; overly hard rolls might tear during assembly or be too tough to bite into.
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Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of Asian chili sauce to match your spice tolerance; start with less and add more to taste if needed.
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Garnish Wisely: Fresh cilantro adds good flavor, but don’t overload; too much can overwhelm the other flavors in your Banh Mi Sandwiches.
Banh Mi Sandwich Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing your Banh Mi Sandwiches with these delightful variations!
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Gluten-Free Bread: Substitute traditional baguettes with gluten-free rolls to keep this dish inclusive and equally delicious.
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace pork with marinated tofu or tempeh for a plant-based twist. The marinade will still provide that flavorful punch!
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Crunchy Veggies: Add radishes or bell peppers for extra crunch and colorful flair, enhancing both texture and taste.
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Herb Boost: Layer on fresh mint or basil along with cilantro for a fragrant boost that elevates these sandwiches to new heights of freshness.
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Spicy Kick: Infuse Sriracha directly into the mayonnaise spread or use pickled jalapeños for a spicy zing with every bite.
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Coconut Sugar: Swap brown sugar with coconut sugar in the pork marinade for a unique sweetness that adds depth of flavor.
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Pâté Variation: Experiment with different types of pâté, like chicken or duck, for a gourmet touch that personalizes each sandwich.
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Fruit Addition: Thinly sliced mango or pineapple can be added for a sweet contrast that complements the savory elements beautifully.
Let these variations inspire you to create your perfect Banh Mi experience, crafted just the way you love it!
What to Serve with Pork Tenderloin Sandwiches with Pickled Vegetables?
Elevate your dining experience with perfectly paired sides that complement every layer of flavor in your Banh Mi Sandwiches.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness and crunchy exterior provide a delightful contrast to the savory pork and tangy veggies.
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Fresh Herb Salad: A refreshing mix of cilantro and mint with a light dressing brightens the palate and echoes the sandwich’s freshness.
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Spicy Asian Cucumber Salad: This crunchy, tangy salad offers a punch of heat and flavor, mirroring the jalapeños from your sandwiches.
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Garlic Rice: Fluffy rice infused with garlic complements the richness of the pork, making each bite of your meal comforting and satisfying.
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Charred Corn on the Cob: The sweet, smoky kernels add a seasonal touch and delightful texture, making your meal feel special.
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Boba Tea: A creamy, sweet beverage that not only quenches your thirst but brings a fun twist, balancing the spices of the Banh Mi.
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Mango Sorbet: Light and refreshing, this dessert provides a fruity, sweet finish that echoes the vibrant Asian flavors in your meal.
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Sriracha Mayo Dipping Sauce: Perfect for your fries or as an extra spread for the sandwiches, it imparts that delicious heat everyone loves.
These pairings will ensure your table is bursting with flavors, turning your meal into an unforgettable experience!
Pork Tenderloin Sandwiches with Pickled Vegetables Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting pork tenderloin?
Absolutely! Choose a pork tenderloin that is firm to the touch with a fresh smell. The color should be a light pink; avoid any with dark spots or an off odor. If you’re unsure, check the sell-by date for optimal freshness!
How can I properly store leftover Banh Mi Sandwiches?
Very simple! Wrap leftover sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To preserve the crunch of the pickled vegetables, store them separately in the fridge in a sealed jar.
Can I freeze the components of Banh Mi Sandwiches?
Yes, you can! To freeze, unassemble the sandwiches. Wrap the pork in freezer-safe bags and freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, reheat the pork in a hot pan or grill once you’re ready to enjoy. Assemble with fresh baguettes and toppings afterward for the ultimate flavor experience.
How do I prevent the pork from drying out while grilling?
To keep your pork tender and juicy, make sure to pound it to 1/8-inch thickness before grilling. Additionally, let the marinated pork come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling. This method ensures even cooking and enhances juiciness.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of for this recipe?
Great question! For those with shellfish allergies, be cautious with the fish sauce and oyster sauce, as they both contain seafood. You can substitute them with soy sauce or coconut aminos for a tasty alternative. Regarding pets, avoid sharing the sandwiches, especially components like garlic and onions, which can be harmful to dogs.
How long should I marinate the pork for the best flavor?
For the richest flavor, I recommend marinating the pork for at least 4 to 8 hours in the refrigerator. If you’re in a crunch, even an hour can enhance the taste! The longer it marinates, the more the flavors will infuse into the meat, creating a truly delightful Banh Mi experience.
Savory Banh Mi Sandwiches with Flavor-Packed Pork Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine rice vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Microwave until boiling, then whisk to dissolve the sugar completely.
- Place the matchstick carrots and daikon into a large mason jar or bowl. Pour your hot vinegar mixture over the veggies, pressing down to ensure they’re fully submerged. Let them cool to room temperature for 30 minutes before sealing and refrigerating.
- Slice each tenderloin in half and then into long 1/4-inch slices. Cover with plastic wrap and gently pound to about 1/8-inch thickness for tenderness.
- In a blender, combine lemongrass, fish sauce, oyster sauce, lime juice, maple syrup, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, vegetable oil, chili sauce, ground coriander, and Chinese 5 spice. Blend until smooth and well combined.
- Place the pork slices and marinade in a freezer bag or shallow dish. Seal tightly and allow the pork to marinate in the fridge for 4-8 hours for maximum flavor.
- Preheat a grill or your oven and toast the baguette rolls for about 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan. Allow the marinated pork to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes, then grill in batches for around 2 minutes per side, or just until cooked through. Transfer the pork to a plate to rest.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and additional chili sauce if desired. Spread this delicious mixture on both halves of your toasted rolls. If you're feeling fancy, smear some pâté on the bottom half.
- Layer the sandwiches with sliced pork, your tangy pickled vegetables, cucumber slices, jalapeño slices, and fresh cilantro. Drizzle with Maggi seasoning for that umami kick and serve immediately.