Are you craving an authentic taste of Vietnam? Look no further! This Banh Mi recipe, featuring succulent beef, will transport your taste buds straight to the bustling streets of Hanoi. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend lunch. Prepare to be amazed by the explosion of flavors in every bite – a symphony of savory, sweet, and tangy notes that will leave you wanting more. It's a delicious dish, a healthy meal, and one of the best recipes you'll ever try!
Ingredients:
This recipe makes approximately 4 Banh Mi sandwiches.
For the Beef Marinade:
- 1 lb lean beef sirloin steak, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, minced
For the Quick Pickled Vegetables:
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup shredded daikon radish
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp water
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Banh Mi:
- 4 baguette rolls
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sriracha mayo (or your favorite chili sauce)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Fresh jalapeño slices (optional)
- Cucumber slices
Instructions:
Marinating the Beef:
- In a large bowl, combine all the beef marinade ingredients. Add the thinly sliced beef and gently toss to ensure all pieces are evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or preferably, for several hours or overnight for maximum flavor. This is where the magic happens!
Preparing the Quick Pickled Vegetables:
- In a separate bowl, combine the shredded carrots, daikon radish, rice vinegar, sugar, water, and salt.
- Mix well and let it sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the vegetables to pickle and soften slightly. This adds a delightful crunch and tang.
Cooking the Beef:
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated beef and cook until it's browned and cooked through, about 3-5 minutes per side. Don't overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook the beef in batches.
Assembling the Banh Mi:
- Slice the baguettes lengthwise, almost all the way through, to create a pocket.
- Spread mayonnaise and sriracha mayo evenly on both halves of each baguette.
- Fill each baguette with the cooked beef, pickled vegetables, fresh cilantro, and jalapeños (if using).
- Add cucumber slices for extra freshness and a nice textural contrast.
Tips and Variations:
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the beef with marinated tofu or mushrooms.
- Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like pickled onions or shredded lettuce.
- If you don't have a griddle, you can cook the beef in a pan or even use a slow cooker for a more tender result.
- For an extra touch of sweetness, add a smear of pate to your Banh Mi.
- Adjust the amount of sriracha mayo to suit your spice preference.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450-500 Protein: 25-30g Fat: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This Banh Mi recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delicious and healthy meal that's quick and easy to prepare. Enjoy the amazing flavors and aromas of authentic Vietnamese cuisine right in your own kitchen! It's a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest and among the easy recipes you can master quickly. This recipe is a must-try for everyone looking for quick dinner ideas and delicious dishes. It's truly one of the best recipes for a flavorful and satisfying meal.