Sardine banh mi

Posted March 17, 2023

Last Updated: March 17, 2023

A banh mi sandwich with sardines, carrots, cilantro and cucumber

Ingredients

  • 1 baguette
  • 2 cans of sardines in olive oil, drained
  • 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium carrot, julienned
  • 1 small daikon radish, julienned
  • Fresh cilantro sprigs
  • 2 jalapeno peppers, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

  1. Quick Pickled Vegetables. To make the pickled vegetables, combine the julienned carrot and daikon radish in a bowl. In a separate container, mix together the rice vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Pour this mixture over the vegetables and toss to coat them evenly. Let the vegetables sit for at least 10 minutes, or until they become slightly tangy.
  2. Preparing the Baguette. Slice the baguette into 4 equal portions, then cut each portion lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Spread a layer of mayonnaise on one side of the baguette.
  3. Assembling the Sandwich. Place a few whole sardines onto the mayonnaise-coated side of the baguette, making sure they are evenly distributed. Add a layer of the quick pickled vegetables, followed by cucumber slices. Top the sandwich with fresh cilantro sprigs and jalapeno slices, if desired.



Sardine Banh Mi Sandwich: A No-Cook Meal on the Go

Taking a lunch break in the heart of downtown, I eagerly stepped out of the engineering firm where I work, looking forward to indulging in a delicious banh mi sandwich. As an engineer, time is always of the essence, and I needed a quick meal that wouldn't compromise on flavor. I strolled down to my favorite Vietnamese food truck, which was conveniently parked just a couple of blocks away from my office. The aroma of grilled meats and fresh herbs wafted through the air, enticing my taste buds. The best part about this food truck is how fast they can whip up a banh mi, making it perfect for busy professionals like myself. I placed my order, opting for a classic grilled pork banh mi with all the trimmings. In no time at all, the friendly vendor handed me my sandwich, neatly wrapped in paper.

As I unwrapped my banh mi, the crusty baguette revealed a colorful medley of pickled vegetables, tender pork, and vibrant herbs. I took a bite, and the symphony of flavors and textures transported me to the bustling streets of Vietnam. The tangy pickled daikon and carrots balanced the savory pork, while the cilantro and jalapeños added a refreshing kick. The creamy sriracha mayonnaise tied everything together in perfect harmony. Each bite was a welcome escape from the stresses of my engineering job. As I savored my banh mi, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the convenience and satisfaction this simple sandwich brought to my busy workday. The entire experience was a much-needed reminder of the importance of taking time out to enjoy life's little pleasures, even amid the hustle and bustle of downtown.

I don't have the luxury of having that food truck where I work today. That means I have to make the sandwich at home. As a result, I can make it in any way I want. Why not take a spin on the sandwich and include delicious and healthy sardines? Combining the convenience of canned sardines with fresh, crunchy vegetables and aromatic herbs, this sandwich is both flavorful and satisfying.

Enjoy the Sardine Banh Mi immediately or wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap to maintain its freshness for a meal on the go. This sandwich pairs well with a cold beverage or a light, zesty salad. Don't hesitate to customize the ingredients, such as adding avocado or pickled red onions for a personalized touch.