Banh Mi is Vietnam’s most iconic sandwich, a perfect balance of crispy bread, savory meats, tangy pickles, and fresh herbs. This fusion of French and Vietnamese flavors creates an irresistible street food favorite that you can now easily make at home!
In this recipe, we’ll use juicy pork sausages as the filling, but you can swap them for your protein of choice. The key to authentic Banh Mi flavor lies in the quick pickled vegetables, rich umami sauce, and fresh herbs. Let’s get started!
Ingredients (Serves 4)
Main Ingredients
- 4 pork sausages (or any sausage of your choice)
- 4 bread rolls (Vietnamese baguettes work best)
- 1 cucumber, sliced lengthways
- 1 spring onion, sliced
- ½ bunch coriander
- 1-2 bird’s eye chilies, sliced (optional)
- 4 tbsp mayonnaise
- Extra coriander, for garnish
Quick Pickled Vegetables
These sweet and tangy pickles add the signature crunch and flavor to Banh Mi.
- 1 tbsp salt
- 2 tbsp sugar
- ½ cup hot water
- ½ cup rice vinegar
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ½ cup shredded daikon radish
Banh Mi Sauce
This savory, slightly tangy sauce ties everything together.
- 2 tbsp Maggi seasoning (or soy sauce)
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Pickled Vegetables
- In a small bowl, mix salt and sugar into hot water until dissolved.
- Add rice vinegar, then toss in shredded carrots and daikon.
- Let them pickle for 15-20 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Cook the Sausages
- Heat a large frying pan over medium heat.
- Cook the sausages until browned and fully cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Banh Mi Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix Maggi seasoning, lime juice, and cracked black pepper.
- Set aside until ready to assemble.
4. Assemble Your Banh Mi
- Slice each bread roll lengthwise, but don’t cut all the way through.
- Spread 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise inside each roll.
- Layer in cucumber slices, pickled vegetables, and a cooked sausage.
- Garnish with spring onions, coriander, and chili slices (if using).
- Drizzle the Banh Mi sauce over the filling for an extra punch of flavor.
How to Serve & Store Banh Mi
- Serve immediately while the bread is crispy and the ingredients are fresh.
- If making ahead, store the pickled vegetables separately to avoid soggy bread.
- Leftover pickled carrots and daikon can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Tips for the Best Banh Mi
- Use Vietnamese baguettes – They’re crispy on the outside and light on the inside, unlike traditional French baguettes, which are denser.
- Don’t skip the pickles – The sweet and tangy crunch is key to the signature Banh Mi taste!
- Customize your protein – Swap sausages for grilled chicken, pork belly, tofu, or pâté for different variations.
Why You’ll Love This Banh Mi Recipe
✅ Authentic Vietnamese street food flavors at home.
✅ Quick & easy to prepare, with minimal cooking.
✅ Perfect balance of crispy, savory, tangy, and fresh ingredients.
Now it’s time to bring the flavors of Vietnam into your kitchen! Try this homemade Banh Mi recipe and enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal any time of the day.
