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Bahn Mi Sandwich

Irresistible Bahn Mi Sandwich with Zesty Lemongrass Twist

Discover the flavor-packed Bahn Mi Sandwich, a delicious fusion of lemongrass-marinated pork and crispy veggies, perfect for any meal.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Marinating Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 4 sandwiches
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

For the Pork Marinade
  • 1 pound Pork Tenderloin Trimmed to remove excess fat for a tender bite.
  • 2 medium Shallots Can substitute with yellow onion if unavailable.
  • 2 stalks Lemongrass Use the white inner stalk; can substitute with lemongrass paste (1 tsp paste for 1 stalk).
  • 3 tablespoons Fish Sauce Red Boat Fish Sauce recommended for quality.
  • 2 tablespoons Oyster Sauce Quality brands like Lee Kum Kee are best.
  • 1 lime Lime Juice Fresh is preferred, bottled can be used if needed.
  • 1 tablespoon Maple Syrup Pure maple syrup preferred; can substitute with brown sugar.
  • 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar Granulated sugar can replace in a pinch.
  • 1 inch Ginger Fresh is optimal; ground can be used if necessary.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Fresh cloves are preferable; garlic powder can substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Toasted Sesame Oil Do not use plain sesame oil for flavor loss.
  • 1 tablespoon Chili Paste Sambal Oelek or Sriracha suggested; adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander Essential for depth of flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Chinese 5 Spice A crucial component in this Bahn Mi Sandwich.
For the Pickled Vegetables
  • 1 cup Rice Vinegar Use unseasoned for the best results.
  • 1 cup Carrots and Daikon Matchstick or julienne cut preferred.
For the Assembly
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Chili garlic mayo can enhance the flavor profile.
  • 1 cup Fresh Vegetables (Cucumber, Jalapeños, Cilantro) Cucumber sliced lengthwise fits better in the sandwich.
  • 4 pieces Baguettes Use crusty, airy baguettes; hoagie rolls also work.
  • optional Pâté Look for pork pâté at grocery stores if desired.
  • optional Maggi Seasoning DIY substitute: 2 tbsp soy sauce + 2 tbsp fish sauce + 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce + ½ tsp sugar.

Equipment

  • Blender
  • Grill or skillet
  • Small Saucepan
  • resealable bag
  • airtight containers

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a blender, combine shallots, lemongrass, fish sauce, oyster sauce, lime juice, maple syrup, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, toasted sesame oil, chili paste, ground coriander, and Chinese 5 spice. Blend until smooth. Place your pork tenderloin into a resealable bag, pour the marinade over it, seal, and refrigerate for 4-8 hours, ideally 6-8 hours for maximum flavor infusion.
  2. In a small saucepan, heat rice vinegar, water, and sugar over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, about 3-5 minutes. Once dissolved, remove from heat and pour the hot brine over julienned carrots and daikon in a jar. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 10 minutes.
  3. After marinating, remove the pork tenderloin from the fridge. Slice the pork thinly lengthwise into ¼-inch strips, then pound each slice between plastic wrap until it reaches about 1/8-inch thickness.
  4. Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork slices in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and caramelized, achieving an internal temperature of 145°F.
  5. While the pork rests, cut the baguettes in half lengthwise. Lightly toast the insides on the grill or under a broiler for about 1-2 minutes until golden and crispy.
  6. Spread mayonnaise (and optional pâté) generously on the toasted sides of the baguettes. Layer the sliced pork, followed by the freshly pickled vegetables, cucumber slices, jalapeños, and cilantro. Optionally drizzle with Maggi seasoning for an additional umami kick.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sandwichCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Marinade the pork for at least 6 hours. Cook pork slices just until golden to avoid dryness. Toast the baguettes just on the insides for optimal texture. Feel free to experiment with toppings like fresh herbs or avocado.

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