Pork banh mi

A Vietnamese-inspired banh mi sandwich combines marinated grilled pork, quick pickles, and a spicy mayo spread – a flavourful, crunchy, and satisfying sandwich with a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy notes.

By Matt Tebbutt
From Saturday Kitchen

This recipe has a moderate nutritional profile with a mix of lean protein, vegetables, and some added sugars and fats. The pork provides protein, while the vegetables add fibre and nutrients. However, the baguette, sugar, and sauces contribute to its calorie content. (nutri-score)

Equipment

• Food processor
• Griddle pan
• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan
• Knife and cutting board

Ninja Food Processor with 4 Automatic Programs; Chop, Puree, Slice, Mix, and 3 Manual Speeds, 2.1L Bowl, Chopping, Slicing & Dough Blades, 850W, Dishwasher Safe Parts, Black BN650UK

£99.00 (available from £96.03)

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Jean-Patrique The Whatever Pan, Griddle Pan for Induction or Stove Top - Non-Stick Grill Pan, Lighter Than Cast Iron Pan, with Lid, 10.6" Diameter

£39.99 (available from £39.99)

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Ingredients

For the pork

• Thai shallots: 2, chopped
• Lemongrass stalks: 2, outer skin removed and chopped
• Garlic cloves: 4, crushed
• Oyster sauce: 3 tbsp
• Fresh root ginger: 1 tbsp, crushed
• Palm sugar: 1 tsp
• Fish sauce: 1 tbsp
• Soy sauce: 1 tbsp
• Pork loin: 500g/1lb 2oz, flattened out and cut into strips

For the pickles

• Green chilli: 1, julienned
• Carrot: 1, julienned
• Daikon: ¼, julienned
• Palm sugar: 2–3 tbsp, to taste
• Lime: 1, juice only
• Rice wine vinegar: 50ml/2fl oz

To serve

• Crunchy baguette: ½
• Mayonnaise: 3 tbsp
• Garlic cloves: 2, chopped
• Thai basil: ½ bunch, chopped
• Sriracha: 1 tbsp
• Little Gem lettuce: 1, leaves separated
• Cucumber: ½, cut into discs
• Fresh coriander sprigs: for garnish

Method

Prepare the Pork Marinade

• Add all ingredients for the pork (except the pork itself) to a food processor.
• Blend until well combined.
• Pour the marinade into a bowl.
• Add the pork strips and toss to coat evenly.
• Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for 24 hours.

Make the Quick Pickles

• Place julienned chilli, carrot, and daikon in a bowl.
• In a saucepan, combine palm sugar, lime juice, and rice wine vinegar.
• Heat the mixture until the sugar dissolves.
• Pour the hot liquid over the vegetables.
• Allow to steep and cool to create the pickles.

Cook the Pork

• Preheat a griddle pan over high heat.
• Add the marinated pork to the hot pan.
• Cook for 7–10 minutes until crispy, adjusting time based on meat thickness.

Prepare the Baguette

• Toast the inside of the baguette in a griddle pan until golden.
• Mix mayonnaise, chopped garlic, chopped Thai basil, and sriracha in a bowl.
• Spread the spicy mayo mixture inside the toasted baguette.

Assemble the Banh Mi

• Layer lettuce leaves and cucumber slices on one side of the baguette.
• Add the crispy pork on top.
• Top with the pickled vegetables.
• Garnish with fresh coriander sprigs.

Nutri-score Health Check

Nutri-Score: C (Moderately healthy)

This Vietnamese-inspired banh mi sandwich receives a Nutri-Score of C, indicating it’s moderately healthy. The score is based on a balance of positive and negative nutritional aspects:

Positive factors:
– Lean protein from pork loin
– Vegetables (carrots, daikon, lettuce, cucumber) providing fiber and nutrients
– Use of herbs and spices for flavor

Negative factors:
– Added sugars (palm sugar in marinade and pickles)
– High sodium content from soy sauce, fish sauce, and oyster sauce
– Refined carbohydrates from the baguette
– Fat content from mayonnaise

The score could be improved by using whole grain bread, reducing added sugars, and increasing the proportion of vegetables to meat. Please note that this score has been automatically calculated from the ingredients in the recipe and is only a guide.

Recipe FAQ

• Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe? Yes, you can substitute the pork with chicken, beef, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
• How long can I keep the pickled vegetables? The quick pickles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Is there a gluten-free alternative for the baguette? You can use gluten-free bread or wrap the filling in lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
• Can I make the marinade in advance? Yes, you can prepare the marinade up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
• What can I substitute for palm sugar? Brown sugar or honey can be used as alternatives to palm sugar.
• Is this recipe very spicy? The spice level is moderate, but you can adjust it by reducing or increasing the amount of sriracha and green chilli.
• Can I grill the pork instead of using a griddle pan? Absolutely! Grilling the pork will give it a nice smoky flavor.
• What sides go well with this banh mi? Vietnamese spring rolls, a light salad, or a clear soup would complement this sandwich nicely.
• Can I prepare the components in advance for a party? Yes, you can marinate the pork, make the pickles, and prepare the spicy mayo a day in advance. Just cook the pork and assemble the sandwiches before serving.
• What’s a good vegetarian filling alternative? Marinated and grilled tofu or tempeh would make excellent vegetarian options.
• Can I freeze the marinated pork? Yes, you can freeze the marinated pork for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
• What if I can’t find daikon? You can substitute daikon with radishes or additional carrots for a similar crunchy texture.