Banh mi
Banh Mi is a Vietnamese sandwich featuring marinated chicken thighs, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs, all within a crispy baguette. This recipe emphasizes a delightful balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors, perfect for a satisfying meal.
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 40 min
Ingredients:
1 tsp ginger root1/3 cup vinegar
2 tsp sugar
1 carrot
1/2 cucumber
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/3 cup salsa sauce
2 garlic cloves
4 chicken thighs
1 tbsp olive oil
1 baguette (french bread)
1/3 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup coriander leaves
2 red hot chili peppers
Banh Mi is a traditional Vietnamese sandwich that offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. This recipe combines marinated chicken thighs, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs, all nestled in a crispy baguette. It's a unique and satisfying meal that brings together savory, sweet, and spicy elements for a delicious experience.
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, mix together the grated ginger, vinegar, and sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Add the julienned carrots and sliced cucumber to the pickling mixture. Set aside and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. You can also prepare this a day ahead and refrigerate for a stronger flavor.
- In a large zip-lock bag or a shallow dish, combine the soy sauce, salsa sauce, and minced garlic.
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure each piece is well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for deeper flavor.
- Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and cook them in the skillet for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked through and have a nice golden color.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.
- Cut the baguette in half lengthwise. You can slightly toast the bread for extra crunch if desired.
- Spread a generous amount of mayonnaise on both sides of the baguette.
- Layer the sliced chicken thighs evenly on the bottom half of the baguette.
- Drain the pickled carrots and cucumber, then place them on top of the chicken.
- Add the coriander leaves and sliced red hot chili peppers for a burst of fresh flavor and heat.
- Place the top half of the baguette over the fillings to complete the sandwich.
- Cut the Banh Mi into manageable portions and serve immediately.
Once you've assembled your Banh Mi, take a moment to appreciate the colorful presentation and tantalizing aroma. The combination of marinated chicken, pickled veggies, and fresh herbs makes every bite a burst of flavor. This Banh Mi recipe not only provides a delicious meal but also introduces you to the vibrant culinary traditions of Vietnam. Enjoy your creation, and don't forget to experiment with different ingredients to make it your own.
Banh mi FAQ:
To store leftover Banh Mi, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days. For the best texture, it's recommended to store the components separately and assemble just before eating.
For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken thighs for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is ideal. This allows the chicken to absorb more of the marinade's flavors.
Yes, you can prepare the pickled vegetables a day ahead. Prepare and refrigerate them to intensify their flavor, ensuring they are ready to use when assembling the Banh Mi.
A large skillet is recommended to cook the chicken thighs evenly, allowing for enough space to avoid overcrowding. Ensure it has a lid or can retain heat effectively.
You can use tamari for a gluten-free alternative or coconut aminos for a soy sauce substitute. Keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly with these substitutes.
Tips:
- Marinate the chicken thighs overnight if possible to enhance the flavors.
- Use a sharp knife to finely julienne the carrot and cucumber for better texture.
- For a spicier kick, add more red hot chili peppers or leave the seeds in.
- Lightly toast the baguette to add a crunch and prevent it from getting soggy.
- Try using different types of vinegar for pickling to see which flavor you prefer.
- Make sure to evenly spread the mayonnaise for a creamy and delicious base.
Nutrition per serving
4 ServingsCalories 400kcal
Protein 22g
Carbohydrates 22g
Fiber 1.93g
Sugar 7g
Fat 27g
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