How to Make the Delicious Vietnamese Banh Mi

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A Delicious Vietnamese Sandwich Recipe

If you're looking for a sandwich that's full of flavor and a bit different from your everyday lunch, look no further than the Banh Mi with Chicken.

This Vietnamese sandwich combines crispy French baguette, savory grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and zesty herbs, making it a perfect blend of textures and flavors.

In this post, I'll guide you through how to make the best Banh Mi with Chicken at home, provide some useful tips, and suggest variations to suit your taste.

What is Banh Mi?

Banh Mi is a popular Vietnamese sandwich that has gained worldwide popularity due to its unique combination of ingredients and flavors.

Traditionally, it consists of a crispy baguette filled with various meats, pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and a spread like mayonnaise or pate.

The sandwich's origins date back to the French colonial period in Vietnam, which explains the use of a baguette and the fusion of French and Vietnamese ingredients.

Ingredients for Chicken Banh Mi

To make this delicious Chicken Banh Mi, you'll need the following ingredients:

• Baguette: A traditional French baguette or a smaller Vietnamese-style baguette. It should be crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts work best for this recipe. Thighs are juicier, but breasts are leaner.
• Marinade for Chicken: A mixture of soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, garlic, lemongrass, and black pepper gives the chicken a deep, savory flavor.
• Pickled Vegetables: A mix of julienned carrots and daikon radish, pickled in rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. These add a tangy crunch to the sandwich.
• Fresh Herbs: Cilantro and mint are classic choices for a burst of freshness.
• Cucumber: Thinly sliced for a cool, refreshing crunch.
• Mayonnaise or Pate: Adds a creamy texture and rich flavor to the sandwich.
• Jalapeño or Chili Pepper (Optional): For those who like a bit of heat.
• Soy Sauce and Lime Juice: For drizzling over the finished sandwich.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Chicken Banh Mi

1. Marinate the Chicken
Start by preparing the chicken marinade. In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of finely chopped lemongrass, and a pinch of black pepper.

Mix well. Add the chicken thighs or breasts to the bowl, ensuring they are well-coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.

2. Prepare the Pickled Vegetables
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the pickled vegetables. In a small saucepan, heat 1/2 cup of rice vinegar, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt until the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

In a bowl, combine the julienned carrots and daikon radish, then pour the vinegar mixture over them. Let them sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. The longer they sit, the more flavorful they become.

3. Grill the Chicken
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off, and grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice char.

Remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly.

4. Prepare the Baguette
While the chicken is grilling, prepare the baguette. Cut the baguette lengthwise, but not all the way through, leaving a hinge. Lightly toast it in the oven or on a grill until the outside is crispy but the inside remains soft.

5. Assemble the Banh Mi
Spread a layer of mayonnaise or pate on the inside of the baguette. Layer the thinly sliced grilled chicken on one side of the baguette.

Top with the pickled vegetables, fresh cucumber slices, cilantro, and mint leaves. Add sliced jalapeño or chili pepper if you like it spicy. Drizzle a little soy sauce and lime juice over the top for extra flavor.

6. Serve and Enjoy
Close the baguette, press gently to hold everything together, and serve immediately. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Banh Mi with a side of fresh salad or some crispy fries for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Chicken Banh Mi

1. Use the Right Bread: A good Banh Mi starts with the bread. Look for a light, airy baguette with a crispy crust. If you can't find Vietnamese baguettes, a French baguette will work, but avoid those that are too dense or chewy.
2. Marinate the Chicken Well: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, a few hours will make a big difference.
3. Pickle the Vegetables in Advance: The pickled vegetables are a key component of Banh Mi. They add a tangy crunch that balances the richness of the chicken and mayo. Make them at least 30 minutes before assembling the sandwich, or even a day ahead for more flavor.
4. Don’t Overfill the Sandwich: While it's tempting to load up your Banh Mi with all the ingredients, a good sandwich should have a balance of flavors and textures. Too much filling can overwhelm the delicate balance of tastes.
5. Add Herbs Generously: Fresh herbs like cilantro and mint are essential in a Banh Mi. They add brightness and a fresh, herbal note that complements the savory chicken and tangy pickles.
6. Customize to Your Taste: One of the best things about Banh Mi is its versatility. Feel free to add your favorite ingredients or adjust the spice level to your liking.

Creative Variations for Chicken Banh Mi

• Lemongrass Chicken Banh Mi: Add extra lemongrass to the chicken marinade for a more intense, fragrant flavor.
• Spicy Chicken Banh Mi: Add more chili peppers or a drizzle of sriracha or hot chili sauce to spice up your sandwich.
• Avocado Chicken Banh Mi: Add sliced avocado for a creamy texture and extra nutrients.
• Grilled Tofu Banh Mi: Substitute the chicken with grilled tofu for a vegetarian option. Marinate the tofu in the same marinade for the best flavor.
• Egg Banh Mi: Add a fried egg to your Banh Mi for an extra layer of flavor and protein. The runny yolk adds a delicious richness to the sandwich.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Banh Mi

Chicken Banh Mi is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to store leftovers, keep the ingredients separate. Store the grilled chicken and pickled vegetables in the refrigerator in airtight containers.

To reheat, warm the chicken in a skillet or microwave and toast the baguette again before assembling the sandwich.

If you want to prep in advance, you can marinate the chicken and make the pickled vegetables a day ahead. When ready to serve, just grill the chicken and assemble the sandwich fresh.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Side of Salad: A light, crisp salad with a simple vinaigrette pairs well with the flavors of the Banh Mi.
• With Vietnamese Iced Coffee: For an authentic Vietnamese experience, serve your Banh Mi with a strong, sweet Vietnamese iced coffee.
• With Fresh Fruit: A side of fresh fruit, like pineapple or mango, complements the flavors and adds a refreshing sweetness to the meal.

With this guide, you’re ready to make a delicious Chicken Banh Mi at home. Whether you’re new to Vietnamese cuisine or a long-time fan, this sandwich is sure to impress with its balance of flavors and textures.

Enjoy the process of making this classic dish and feel free to get creative with your own variations!

Share your Banh Mi creations and any tips you have in the comments below. Let’s explore the flavors of Vietnam together!

Enjoy this Easy video tutorial about Banh Mi

Source: Munchies

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