Vietnamese sandwiches or “banh mi” are trending everywhere in local sandwich shops, food trucks and even on Food Network! Where did this idea come from and how can you make it at home?
Banh mi has been a staple in Vietnamese fast food since the French Indochina Era. That explains the French influence in Vietnamese cuisine. Banh mi means “bread” but foodies have given it a name of its own - Vietnamese sandwich. The sandwich is served with a variety of fillings such as cold cuts, chicken, pate, meatball, BBQ beef and grilled pork tenderloin. What gives the banh mi its characteristic flavors are the pickled shredded carrots and daikon combo, fresh cilantro, sliced jalapenos and soy sauce served on a warm baguette. Local eateries are constantly creating the next best filling for banh mi. I’ve tried them all except a grilled duck banh mi which I have not seen served anywhere. Now foodies can make your own one-of-a-kind delightful banh mi slider at home!
Ingredients: (Makes 8 sliders)
- 2 duck breasts, whole and thawed
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons Five Spice seasoning
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ teaspoon of ground black pepper
- ¼ cup shredded carrot
- ¼ cup shredded daikon
- 2 tablespoons vinegar
- 4 teaspoons sugar
- Fresh cilantro
- 1 jalapeno, sliced round
- 1 loaf of fresh baguette
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, Five Spice seasoning, garlic, 2 teaspoons sugar and black pepper. Add duck breasts and let marinade overnight.
- Combine shredded carrots and daikon in a medium bowl. Add vinegar and 2 teaspoons sugar. Mix well and leave in the fridge for at least 1 hour. Drain the vinegar before serving.
- Grill the duck breast at 350 degrees for 10 minutes on each side or until brown on both sides.
- Slice the baguette in eight even pieces. I angled my slices for an easy bite. Split each piece in half.
- Slice the duck breast in an angle and lay it on top of the bottom half of the baguette.
- Layer the rest with carrots and daikon, jalapeno, cilantro and drizzle soy sauce over the vegetables.
- Add the top half of the baguette and serve. (You can also add your favorite mayo for a creamy bite.)
Eat them all up, because it’s so good!
Enjoy!
Chan