Bánh Mì (Vietnamese Sandwich)
What is Bánh Mì
Bánh Mì is a popular Vietnamese sandwich that can be found all over the world, right there alongside Phở. This sought-after tasty export combines the unique flavors and textures of Vietnam with the convenience of a sandwich, making it the perfect meal on the go. And as of 2022, Banh Mi is finally recognized by Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary.
The traditional Bánh Mì sandwich is made with a crispy baguette, filled with your choice of protein, pickled and fresh vegetables, a spread of pate and mayo, and a drizzle of umami soy sauce.
Bánh Mì (Vietnamese sandwich with chicken)
The Origin of Bánh Mì
The origin of Bánh Mì can be traced back to the French colonial period in Vietnam. The French introduced the baguette to Vietnam, and the Vietnamese began to fill the bread with their own ingredients, creating the Bánh Mì we know and love today.
What is Inside Bánh Mì
The ingredients of a typical Bánh Mì sandwich include the following. Make sure to click on the links to get the recipes.
Vietnamese Baguette
Baguette — A French-style bread that is crispy on the outside and fluffy and mostly hollow on the inside. The baguette is cut lengthwise and then filled with the following goodies.
Vietnamese Ham (Chả Lụa)
Choice of Protein — You can choose from a variety of proteins:
Grilled pork (Thịt Nướng)
Chinese-style BBQ pork (Xá Xíu)
Ham (Chả Lụa, pictured above)
Cold cuts and headcheese combo (Thịt Nguội or Đặc Biệt)
Tomato pork meatballs (Xíu Mại)
Grilled chicken (Gà Nướng)
Vegetarian option such as fried tofu (Đậu Hũ Chiên)
Vietnamese Pickled Carrot & Daikon (Đồ Chua)
Pickled carrot and daikon — Provides tangy and crunchy contrast to the sandwich.
Vietnamese mayo (bơ) and pâté
Mayo — What the Vietnamese call bơ (butter) because I don’t think there is a word for mayo. This is made from egg yolks, a neutral oil, and salt. When mixed and emulsified together, this provides a creamy flavor and texture to the sandwich.
Pate — Pâté is a staple ingredient in French cuisine that has made its way into Vietnamese cuisine. A smear of pâté provides a rich and savory flavor. Pate is typically made from pork liver. I would get a house-made pate from my local Vietnamese deli or use my favorite canned version.
Jalapenos, cilantro (also known as coriander), and cucumber
jalapenos, cilantro (also known as coriander), and cucumber — for a burst of freshness and spicy kick.
Sunny-side-up or over-easy fried egg
Fried egg — One popular fancy addition to the traditional Banh Mi sandwich that will likely cost extra is a sunny-side-up or over-easy fried egg.
Maggi seasoning sauce and light soy sauce
Maggi Seasoning Sauce — Last but not least, a little drizzle of Maggi seasoning sauce or another type of light soy sauce adds a punch of umami flavor.
Bánh Mì is not just a sandwich, it's a cultural experience. The combination of flavors and textures is a true representation of the blending of French and Vietnamese cultures. So, next time you're craving something delicious, grab a Bánh Mì and take a culinary trip to Vietnam without ever leaving your city.
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