Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Vietnam with this mouthwatering Lemongrass Beef Banh Mi sandwich. Imagine tender, caramelized beef infused with aromatic lemongrass, nestled in a crispy baguette and bursting with fresh, zesty toppings that dance on your palate. This isn't just a sandwich – it's a flavor explosion that combines the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy elements in every single bite.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Serves: 2 sandwiches
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons lemongrass, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 baguette
- 1/2 cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 cup pickled carrots and daikon
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine minced lemongrass, soy sauce, fish sauce, and sugar to create a marinade for the beef.
- Thinly slice the beef sirloin against the grain into strips approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Add beef strips to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Let marinate for 15-20 minutes at room temperature to allow flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook marinated beef strips for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they develop a nice caramelized exterior and are cooked to medium-rare.
- While beef is cooking, slice baguette lengthwise and lightly toast the inside surfaces to create a crispy texture.
- Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on both interior sides of the toasted baguette.
- Layer the cooked lemongrass beef onto the baguette.
- Top with sliced cucumber, pickled carrots and daikon, and fresh cilantro leaves.
- Slice the banh mi diagonally and serve immediately while beef is still warm.
Tips
- Slice the beef against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness and easier chewing.
- Allow the beef to marinate for at least 15 minutes to fully absorb the lemongrass and sauce flavors.
- Use a very hot skillet to achieve a beautiful caramelized exterior on the beef.
- Choose a fresh, crusty baguette and toast it lightly for the ideal texture contrast.
- Don't skimp on the pickled vegetables – they provide a crucial tangy crunch to the sandwich.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a small amount of sriracha or chili sauce if you enjoy some heat.
- Serve immediately after assembling to enjoy the sandwich at its peak temperature and texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 75mg
