Get To Know What's in a Bánh Mì
With just one bite, you’re greeted by the signature crunch of the classic Vietnamese bánh mì. Then comes the burst of fresh, flavorful ingredients that will leave you craving more. But what exactly makes this iconic sandwich so irresistible and healthy?
Bánh mì isn’t your typical sandwich. It’s a vibrant culinary experience that perfectly captures the fusion of flavors and textures that Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated for. This dish has gained global popularity, but what really goes into this #OddlyDelicious creation?
Depending on who you ask, people have different definitions of what a Classic Vietnamese sandwich. The type of meat may vary, as well as the other components, which can alter its taste depending on the presentation. However, its flavor must still evoke the familiar taste of authentic Vietnamese bánh mì.
And here at Bánh Mì Kitchen, we strive to serve our customers its signature taste that will surely immerse them in a true Vietnamese food experience.
Now, let’s take the first bite to get to know our “The Classic” Vietnamese Bánh Mì.
How to Make The Classic Vietnamese Bánh Mì
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The Bread: A Toast to Tradition
At the heart of every bánh mì is the bread.The Vietnamese baguette reflects the fusion of French and Vietnamese culinary traditions, a remnant of the colonial era. The bread is popular for its light and airy inside, with a crispy crust and a soft interior that perfectly holds the fillings.
This is a staple in Vietnamese cuisine and an essential element of the beloved bánh mì sandwich.
Enjoying a bánh mì starts with appreciating the craftsmanship of the baguette itself—crunchy, soft, and full of flavor.
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The Protein: Savory Selections
The choice of protein is where bánh mì truly shines. There are several versions of bánh mì and they often differ based on the type of meat that contributes to its rich and savory flavor. Options include roasted pork or chicken, marinated in a blend of spices and roasted to perfection.
In Vietnam, bánh mì is often made with Vietnamese pork sausage (chả lụa), a cured meat that’s both flavorful and satisfying. For vegetaria
n options, marinated and grilled tofu provides a delicious and healthy alternative.
Here at Bánh Mì Kitchen, we continue to expand our menu to offer a variety of choices for how people want their bánh mì. We explored fusions of flavor that come from applications of wagyu tapa, samgyupsal kimchi, and lechon belly to give our bánh mì unique flavors.
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The Vegetables: Crunch and Color
Adding pop of colors is essential for a bánh mì. And because of this, many go all out through adding a generous portion of vegetables in it. These vegetables add crunch, enhance the visual appeal, and provide freshness in every bite.
Typically, bánh mì includes pickled carrot and radish which are thinly sliced and soaked in vinegar to complement the richness of the meat. Cucumber, also sliced, adds a refreshing bite, while fresh cilantro tops it off, imparting a unique and elevated taste.
The vegetables greatly highlight the perfect balance this Vietnamese sandwich offers, providing just enough freshness for an even enjoyable experience.
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The Condiments: A Flavor Explosion
To enhance the taste even further, bánh mì is usually dressed with unique and diverse flavors.
Pâté serves as a base spread in the sandwich. Its moistness adds extra texture and prevents dryness. Usually made from pig’s liver and a mixture of meat, vegetables, and spices, its unique flavor adds depth to the classic Vietnamese bánh mì — making it indispensable.
Though pâté is usually made with pork liver, our team at Bánh Mì Kitchen opted for chicken pâté in many of our selections.
Next, mayonnaise adds richness and a creamy texture to the sandwich. Its natural flavor pairs perfectly with the sweet, tangy taste of hoisin sauce, another staple in bánh mì. For those who like it spicy, some prefer to add chili or hot sauce for an extra kick.
The Perfect Bite of the Perfect Creation
When you take a bite of bánh mì, you experience a harmonious blend of savory, tangy, crunchy, and creamy flavors and textures. Each component plays a crucial role, creating a sandwich that is both satisfying and refreshing.
It’s not just an ordinary sandwich. Each is filled with exciting flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Bánh Mì Kitchen, as the name suggests, represents our passion for serving the best bánh mì in town. We explore and infuse different flavors to cater to the unique taste preferences of our customers, ensuring that every bite is enjoyable.
Most importantly, we commit to serving a classic Vietnamese bánh mì that Filipinos would love for its signature flavor. We want people to experience and remember what Vietnam feels like in their first bite. Whether enjoyed as a quick street food snack or as a gourmet treat, bánh mì is a testament to the rich culinary traditions of Vietnam.
So, the next time you crave a sandwich, Bánh Mì Kitchen is ready to serve you crunchy, healthy, and savory bánh mìs. Browse our selections and get your bánh mìs at www.banhmikitchen.ph!