Gluten-Free Bánh Mì

This delicious and unique gluten-free bánh mì sandwich comes with marinated pork, fresh herbs and vegetables, and pickled radishes!

Jump to Recipe

What Exactly is a Bánh Mì?

A Bánh mì is a traditional Vietnamese sandwich that is a fusion of meats and vegetables. This sandwich is a staple in Vietnamese cuisine and includes marinated pork, which is often grilled to perfection, adding a smoky flavor that enhances the overall experience. Alongside the pork, fresh coriander or cilantro contributes a burst of herbaceous freshness, while vegetables like cucumber and jalapeños provide a satisfying crunch and a hint of spice. The inclusion of pickled vegetables, typically carrots and daikon radish, adds a delightful tang and texture, balancing the savory elements of the sandwich.

The Bánh mì is then finished with a red chili and buttery mayonnaise mixture that produces a creamy and slightly spicy spread, elevating the flavor profile to new heights. Today, this sandwich is a popular street food in Vietnam but has also grown popular in North America, where it has inspired countless variations and adaptations. Its unique combination of ingredients and flavors has made it a beloved choice for those seeking both authenticity and innovation in their meals.

First Step: Prepare the Pork

Arguably one of the most important steps in making a good Bánh mì sandwich is preparing the pork. Pork tenderloin is used for this sandwich and is marinated for 12 hours in a mixture of ingredients that creates a delicious marinade. Start by freezing the pork tenderloin for 15 minutes. This makes the meat easier to cut, so we can get thin pieces of pork. After 15 minutes, take a sharp knife and slice the pork as thin as possible. Then, add the pork to a large bowl or Tupperware container.

Next, add in gluten-free hoisin sauce and rice wine vinegar. After, add coconut amino acids or Tamari as a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce. Stir this mixture, then add brown sugar, grated garlic cloves, and fish sauce. Stir again before adding the next ingredients. Next, add grated ginger, lemongrass paste, chili/ garlic paste, and salt. Use metal tongs to move the meat around to ensure each piece is evenly coat in the marinade. Cover the container and place the pork in the refrigerator for 12 hours to marinate overnight.

After 12 hours, pour the marinade and pieces of pork into a large pan. Turn the heat to medium and cook the pork for 4-5 minutes on each side before flipping. Once the pork is thoroughly cooked, remove all the pieces of pork and set tot the side. Then, turn up the heat to medium-high and add one tablespoon of cornstarch once the marinade is boiling. Whisk the cornstarch in until the marinade has thickened, then remove from heat. This sauce is delicious to dunk your gluten-free bánh mì sandwich into! 

Let's Pickle Some Radishes!

Now for the veggies! We're going to start by pickling some daikon radish. While other pickled veggies, like carrots, are sometimes used in traditional recipes, I like to use radishes instead. Radishes are delicious pickled because it not only softens the vegetable but adds a nice touch of acidity to an otherwise bland vegetable. To pickle the radishes, start by slicing two cups of radishes. Then, add the radishes to a large mason jar or container. Pour in one cup of rice wine vinegar, three tablespoons of cane sugar, and a touch of salt. If you don't have rice wine vinegar, you can also use a mixture of apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar. Finally, add hot water until the radishes are completely covered. Place a lid over the container or jar, and refrigerate overnight. 

Finish the Sandwich with These Filings

Before adding the rest of the vegetables, prepare the gluten-free French baguette first. Start by slicing two baguettes in half so you have the making for four sandwiches. Then, cut each sandwich horizontally to open it up. Mix together mayo and chili/ garlic paste or sriracha to create a spicy mayo. Spread this on the inside of each piece of bread, then bake in the oven at 425 for 10 minutes. Once the baguettes are golden, remove from the oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes. 

Now that the bread is toasted, the pork is cooked, and the pickled radishes are ready, it's time to load the Bánh mì up with lots of vegetables! Below are some vegetables that are commonly served in this Vietnamese sandwich. 

• Shredded carrots
• Sliced jalapeños
• Fresh cilantro and or Thai basil
• Sliced cucumber

Once the vegetables are in the gluten-free bánh mì sandwich, top with the final piece of bread and enjoy! If you looking to add onto this meal, I highly recommend my Noodles with Spicy Peanut Sauce!