Bánh Mì Thịt (Classic Vietnamese Pork Sandwich)

🧂 Ingredients

• 4 Baguettes(Look for fresh, crusty Vietnamese-style baguettes if possible. If not, a good quality French baguette will work.)
• 200 g Cha lua (Vietnamese pork roll)(This is a common Vietnamese deli meat. It's usually found in Asian markets. Slice thinly.)
• 100 g Pâté(Pork liver pâté is traditional. A smooth, good quality pâté is recommended.)
• 1 cup Pickled vegetables (Do Chua)(A mix of shredded daikon radish and carrots, pickled in a sweet and sour brine. You can buy this pre-made at Asian markets or make your own.)
• 4 tablespoons Mayonnaise(Regular mayonnaise or Kewpie mayonnaise for a richer flavor.)
• 1/2 cup Fresh cilantro sprigs(Washed and dried.)
• 1-2 small Fresh jalapeño slices(Thinly sliced, seeds removed for less heat if desired. Adjust to your spice preference.)
• 2 tablespoons Soy sauce or Maggi seasoning(Optional, for drizzling over the meats.)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the baguettes: Slice each baguette lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through, creating a hinge. If the baguettes are not fresh, you can lightly toast them in an oven preheated to 180°C (350°F) for about 3-5 minutes until they are warm and slightly crisp. Watch closely to prevent burning.

   ⏱️ 5 minutes
2. 2

   Spread the inside of each baguette generously with mayonnaise. Then, spread a layer of pâté over the mayonnaise on one side of the baguette. Ensure even coverage.

   ⏱️ 3 minutes
3. 3

   Layer the fillings: Arrange the thinly sliced cha lua on top of the pâté. Follow with a generous layer of the pickled vegetables (do chua), draining any excess liquid.

   ⏱️ 5 minutes
4. 4

   Add the aromatics and seasoning: Tuck in fresh cilantro sprigs and arrange jalapeño slices to your liking. If desired, drizzle a small amount of soy sauce or Maggi seasoning over the fillings for an extra savory kick.

   ⏱️ 2 minutes
5. 5

   Close and serve: Gently close the baguette. The sandwich is best served immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm bread, cool fillings, and crisp vegetables.

   ⏱️ 1 minute

💡 Pro Tips

• ✓The baguette is crucial! A light, airy interior with a crisp crust is ideal. Avoid dense bread.
• ✓Achieve a balance of flavors and textures: the richness of the pâté and mayo, the savory pork, the tangy-sweet pickles, and the fresh herbs and spice.
• ✓This is a classic Vietnamese street food. Enjoy it as a quick, satisfying meal.
• ✓Ensure pickled vegetables are well-drained to prevent a soggy sandwich.

🔄 Variations

• Add grilled marinated pork (thịt nướng) for a heartier sandwich.
• Incorporate Vietnamese meatballs (xíu mại) for a different texture and flavor profile.
• Include other deli meats like Vietnamese ham or thinly sliced roasted pork belly.

🥗 Nutrition

Per serving