How to Make the Best Vietnamese Bánh Mì Breakfast

Vietnamese bánh mì is a delicious and versatile sandwich that makes for a perfect breakfast option. Combining crispy bread with savory ingredients, bánh mì offers a delightful explosion of flavors that guarantees to kickstart your day. If you’re eager to learn how to make the best Vietnamese bánh mì for breakfast, follow these simple steps.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create an authentic Vietnamese bánh mì, gather the following ingredients:

  • 1 fresh baguette (preferably French-style)
  • 1-2 eggs
  • 1-2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
  • Pickled carrots and daikon (do chua)
  • Cucumber, sliced
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Jalapeño or other chilies (optional)
  • Protein of your choice (grilled pork, chicken, tofu, or pâté)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Pickled Vegetables

To make do chua, which is essential for an authentic bánh mì, follow these steps:

  1. Peel and julienne 1 cup each of carrots and daikon radish.
  2. In a bowl, mix together 1 cup of vinegar, 1 cup of sugar, and 1 cup of water until dissolved.
  3. Add the julienned vegetables into the mixture and let them sit for at least an hour. For the best flavor, refrigerate overnight.

Cooking the Eggs

While the pickled vegetables are marinating, it’s time to prepare the eggs. You can fry, scramble, or even make an omelet according to your preference:

  1. For fried eggs: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Crack the eggs into the pan. Season with salt and pepper, then cook until the whites are set and the yolks are still runny.
  2. For scrambled eggs: Whisk the eggs in a bowl. Pour into the pan and stir gently until they’re fully cooked.

Assemble Your Bánh Mì

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to assemble your bánh mì:

  1. Cut the baguette in half lengthwise, but not all the way through. Leave a hinge to hold the ingredients.
  2. Spread a generous layer of mayonnaise on both sides of the bread.
  3. Add a layer of your cooked protein (grilled pork, chicken, or tofu) to one side.
  4. Place the cooked eggs on top of the protein.
  5. Add a handful of pickled carrots and daikon, followed by cucumber slices.
  6. Top with fresh cilantro and sliced jalapeños if desired.

Final Touches

For an extra kick, drizzle some soy sauce or Sriracha inside the sandwich. Close the baguette and give it a gentle press to hold everything together. Your bánh mì is now ready! Serve it warm with a side of fresh fruits or a hot beverage.

Enjoy Your Breakfast!

Making the best Vietnamese bánh mì breakfast at home is simple, quick, and immensely satisfying. The combination of crunchy baguette, flavorful fillings, and fresh herbs creates a memorable breakfast experience. Whether enjoyed at home or packed for a quick meal on the go, bánh mì is sure to become a breakfast favorite.

Try different proteins and toppings to customize your bánh mì to your liking. With these easy steps, you can elevate your breakfast game and enjoy a taste of Vietnam in your kitchen!