Delicious Homemade Banh Mi Recipe – Quick & Easy
If you’re looking for a quick and easy sandwich to satisfy your hunger cravings, look no further than the Spam Banh Mi. This Vietnamese-inspired sandwich has all the right ingredients to make your taste buds dance. With its crispy fried spam, fresh vegetables, and savory sauces, it’s no wonder why this delight is a classic in Vietnamese cuisine.
But don’t let the thought of spam turn you off. Believe it or not, the canned meat has become a popular ingredient in many tasty creations over the years. And when paired with a crispy baguette and pickled vegetables, the flavor profile of this sandwich reaches new heights.
Plus, this recipe puts a unique spin on the traditional banh mi by including a fried egg for added protein and mouthwatering texture. So whether you’re in need of a quick lunch or want to impress your guests with an unexpected twist on a classic sandwich recipe, give this Spam Banh Mi a try. You won’t be disappointed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bánh mì is a traditional Vietnamese sandwich that has taken the world by storm. And while the classic recipe traditionally calls for pork belly or cold cuts, this spam banh mi takes things to the next level. Trust me when I say that this recipe will revolutionize your sandwich game.
What makes this sandwich so special? Well, for starters, it features one of the most underrated ingredients out there – Spam. Don’t turn up your nose just yet; this dish is not only surprisingly tasty but also incredibly versatile.
When combined with some soy sauce, sriracha sauce, and sugar, Spam becomes a flavor-packed protein source that you never knew you needed in your life. Topped with fresh cilantro, crisp carrots, English cucumber slices, and pickled daikon radish (a staple in Vietnamese cuisine), this sandwich is a true flavor bomb.
And let’s not forget about the sauces that make all the difference. A mix of mayonnaise and butter spread on a warm and toasty baguette along with fish sauce and sesame oil lend this banh mi its signature depth of flavor.
But here’s the kicker – you can make this sandwich as-is or tweak it to fit your taste preferences! Don’t like eggs? Skip them. Add some spice with more sriracha or dial it down with less fish sauce. The possibilities are endless.
So trust me, when I say that this spam banh mi will be your new go-to lunch option. It’s easy to make, versatile, and packed with flavor. You won’t know what hit you until you take that first bite!
Ingredient List
Before diving into the how-to of this delectable spam Banh Mi recipe, let’s take a look at the list of ingredients that you will need. Don’t worry; most of these can be easily found at your local grocery store, Asian market, or even online.
Ingredients:
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2 (12oz) cans of Spam
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1 English cucumber
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1 yellow onion
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2 radishes
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1 cup shredded carrots
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Cilantro
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Mayonnaise
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Softened unsalted butter
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1 Tbsp sugar
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1 Tbsp sesame oil
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2 Tbsp soy sauce
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2 Tbsp sriracha sauce
Apart from the ingredients mentioned above, you will also need baguettes or Banh Mi bread (if available), but other bread options can work too. Additionally, you can adjust the ingredient ratios according to your taste preferences. Be sure to have all the ingredients measured out and prepped before starting with the recipe for smooth execution.
The Recipe How-To
Now, let’s dive into the most exciting part – The Recipe How-To.
Prep Time
- Total prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time
- Total cook time: 10 minutes
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
First, gather all the necessary ingredients listed above. Slice the cucumber and onion into thin rounds. Julienne the carrots. Roughly chop a handful of cilantro leaves.
Step 2: Heat the Spam
Open the can of Spam and remove it from the can. Cut it lengthwise into 1/4 inch slices. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and fry the Spam until it is golden brown on both sides.
Step 3: Toast the Bread
Slice open your banh mi or French rolls and spread some butter mayo on each side of the bread. Toast them face down on a clean skillet over medium heat until they are lightly browned.
Step 4: Assemble Your Banh Mi Sandwich
Begin by spreading mayonnaise on one half of each roll, then spread some soy sauce and sriracha sauce on top. Layer some cucumber, onion, and carrot on top of the mayo.
Next, add the fried spam to one side of your sandwich roll and top with an egg (optional). Sprinkle some fresh cilantro leaves over everything.
Drizzle with some fish sauce or more soy sauce if desired.
Enjoy!
And voila! Your delicious Spam Banh Mi Sandwich is ready to enjoy!
Substitutions and Variations
One of the great things about bánh mì is that it’s a very versatile sandwich, and there are many substitutions and variations you can make to create your ideal version. Here are some ideas:
– Protein: While we’ve used Spam and fried egg in this recipe, you can easily swap in other proteins like pork belly, cold cuts, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
– Vegetables: We’ve used cucumber, carrots, and cilantro for a classic combination of fresh and crunchy veggies. Feel free to mix it up with other pickled or raw vegetables like daikon radish, bell peppers, jalapeño peppers, or bean sprouts.
– Sauce: The traditional sauce for bánh mì is a mixture of mayonnaise and pâté, but we’ve simplified it by using a butter mayo sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own pâté or adding different sauces like soy sauce, sriracha sauce, fish sauce, hoisin sauce or chili-garlic sauce.
– Bread: While classic bánh mì uses a French baguette as the bread base, you could also use other types of bread like wheat rolls or even ciabatta.
– Toppings: Feel free to experiment with toppings like sliced avocado, jalapeño peppers, bacon bits, or green onion.
Remember that these substitutes can vary the final taste and texture of the sandwich considerably. You are encouraged to experiment and find what best suits your palate!
Serving and Pairing
The Spam Banh Mi recipe is a true delight for those who crave a fusion of different flavors and textures in their sandwiches. This Vietnamese sandwich is traditionally served as street food, but it has quickly become a popular dish all over the world.
Serving this sandwich could hardly be easier: cut the baguette into four equal parts, then cut each piece lengthwise, creating pockets to fit the filling. Fill the baguette with fresh cilantro, sliced English cucumbers, pickled daikon and carrots, thinly sliced yellow onion, and your delicious fried spam and egg. The end result? A perfect blend of savory and sweet flavors.
When it comes to pairing, there are a few options that complement this flavor-packed sandwich. For drinks, a cold beer or an iced tea make great choices to refresh the palate with their crispness. If you’re looking for something more substantial, try a bowl of pho – rice noodles in flavorful soup broth with sliced beef, fresh herbs, and bean sprouts – to accompany your Spam Banh Mi.
Overall, this sandwich is perfect for any occasion or mealtime – whether for lunch or dinner – as long as you are seeking something yummy, quick and fulfilling. Its versatility and unforgettable taste make it a winner at any table.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
If you’re planning to serve these Spam Banh Mi sandwiches for a party or gathering, there’s good news. You can make components of the sandwiches ahead of time for easy assembly later on.
For example, the pickled daikon and carrots can be made up to a week in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. The fried Spam and egg can also be prepared a few hours before serving. Simply keep them warm in the oven or toaster oven at 300°F until you’re ready to assemble.
Assembling the sandwich is best done just before eating to preserve its freshness and crispiness, but you can prepare the butter mayo and slice the cucumbers and onions ahead of time.
If you end up with leftovers, wrap each sandwich tightly with plastic wrap and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply remove from the fridge and let sit at room temperature for 20 minutes. Then, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
However, take note that when reheating this sandwich, it will no longer retain its perfectly crisp texture. Nevertheless, its flavor will remain intact so don’t worry about sacrificing taste just because it’s reheated.
Overall, these Spam Banh Mi sandwiches are versatile enough to be made ahead or stored away for later enjoyment without compromising much on their taste profile.
Tips for Perfect Results
Cooking a delicious Spam Banh Mi requires more than just following the recipe directions. Here are some tips to ensure your sandwich turns out perfectly.
First and foremost, make sure that you have all the necessary ingredients before you start cooking. Double-check the ingredient list to avoid any surprises halfway through the process. Freshness is also important, particularly when it comes to the vegetables. Look for firm carrots and crispy English cucumbers, as they will add crunch and texture to your sandwich.
When cooking the Spam or fried egg, use a non-stick pan to avoid sticking and burning. To get the best possible results, cook on medium-high heat for approximately 2-3 minutes per side until brown and crispy.
Another important tip is to let all of your ingredients come to room temperature before assembling your sandwich, particularly the bread. This allows for better distribution of flavors and prevents the bread from becoming soggy.
To achieve a perfect balance of flavors, be careful not to overdo it on sauces like soy sauce or Sriracha. Start with small amounts and adjust as necessary, tasting as you go along. It’s also worth noting that homemade mayonnaise tastes considerably better than store-bought varieties.
Once all of your ingredients are prepared, assembly is key. Make sure you distribute ingredients evenly throughout the sandwich, layering them carefully between slices of bread for maximum flavor.
Finally, cutting the sandwich into halves or quarters may make it easier to eat and also showcase its colorful layers. A sharp knife will allow for clean cuts without smashing or tearing apart your masterpiece.
By following these tips, you will achieve a tasty Spam Banh Mi that is both visually stunning and utterly satisfying to eat.
FAQ
As with any recipe, you may come across questions or uncertainties while trying to create it. In the case of spam banh mi, there are a handful of common concerns that home cooks may encounter. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about this popular Vietnamese sandwich.
What meat is best for banh mi?
Banh mi, a popular Vietnamese sandwich, originally consisted of a baguette filled with savory Asian ingredients, such as pork, chicken, and pate. However, more meats like beef have been incorporated into the recipe over time. As of Feb 10, 2023, this sandwich remains a staple in Vietnamese cuisine.
What is banh mi sauce made of?
Creating the desired sauce is a quick process that involves combining several key ingredients. To make it, I suggest mixing together mayonnaise, hoisin sauce, sriracha, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Alternatively, if you prefer a different flavor profile, you can swap out the hoisin sauce for Maggi seasoning. The latter is a popular choice in many international dishes, such as soups, stir-fry’s and sauces, and can be easily found at specialty food markets or online retailers like Amazon. This will allow you to enhance the overall taste of the sauce and elevate its flavor profile.
What does a traditional banh mi contain?
The Banh Mi sandwich is a tasty blend of French and Vietnamese cuisine that was popularized on the streets of Saigon. It consists of a light and fluffy baguette, tangy pickled daikon and carrot, fresh cilantro, spicy chilis, and a refreshing slice of cucumber. The sandwich can be filled with a variety of protein options, ranging from sweet minced pork to rich pate to flavorful sardines. This delicious fusion sandwich offers a unique culinary experience that you won’t want to miss!
Is it butter or mayo in banh mi?
When it comes to preparing delectable Banh Mi, adding a touch of butter to the mayo can provide a rich, nutty taste and a smooth, soft texture. While cilantro is one herb that is typically used to garnish this popular sandwich, there are other varieties of fresh herbs that can also enhance its flavor.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the Spam Banh Mi recipe is a wonderful way to experiment with new ingredients and flavors. This recipe is perfect for anyone who would love to try something new, especially if they’re a fan of classic Vietnamese dishes. With its delicious combination of salty and sweet, this sandwich is sure to impress your taste buds.
Whether you stick with traditional Banh Mi toppings like cilantro, pickled vegetables, and mayo or try out something new like fried eggs or pork belly, this recipe is endlessly customizable. Plus, with tips on make-ahead, storing, and reheating options, it’s easy to bring the taste of Vietnam into your own kitchen.
So why not give the Spam Banh Mi recipe a try? It’s an affordable, delicious meal that is easy enough for even beginner cooks to try their hand at. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings or switch things up with different sauces and spices. Who knows- maybe you’ll even come up with a new variation of Banh Mi that will become a family favorite for years to come!
Spam Banh Mi Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 cups rice wine vinegar
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup sesame oil
- 1 medium yellow onion
- 2 carrots
- 1 jalapeno pepper
- 1 English cucumber
- 1/2 cup cilantro, roughly chopped
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 ounces sriracha sauce
- 3 ounces vegetable oil
- 2 (12 ounce) cans Spam, classic thin sliced (the thinner the better)
- 3 ounces soy sauce
- 8 ounces sweet chili sauce (Mae Ploy or homemade $notetemplate1$)
- 6 vietnamese french-style buns
Instructions
- Using a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, sesame oil and sugar until fully dissolved.
- Julienne the onion, carrot, cucumber and jalapeno; add to the mixing bowl.
- Refrigerate for 25 minutes, stirring twice.
- After 25 minutes, strain the liquid from the vegetables and add the cilantro.
- In the meantime, mix together the mayonnaise and Sriracha in a small bowl; set aside.
- In a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, add vegetable oil and SPAM Classic. Fry until crispy and then remove from the pan.
- Strain the fat from the pan.
- Deglaze the same pan with the soy sauce, then add the sweet chili sauce. Immediately remove the pan from heat and stir until the sauce is sticky, about 1 minute. Add back into the pan the seared spam slices and flip to coat.
- Slice the French bun and slather Sriracha mayo on top and bottom.
- Stuff with the sticky SPAM Classic and pickled vegetables.
Your own notes
Nutrition
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Tony is an experienced chef, crafting delicious comfort food. He’s also an influential blogger, providing helpful recipes and tips on his website, taosburgersandbeer.com. As an expert in his field, he offers valuable advice to readers. His knowledge and creative recipes make it easy to cook exciting, flavorful dishes.