Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a burst of vibrant flavors? Dive into the world of Vietnamese cuisine with our Grilled Lemongrass Turkey Banh Mi, a sandwich that promises to elevate your lunch game! This delightful fusion of juicy turkey marinated in aromatic lemongrass, crisp pickled carrots, and fresh cilantro all nestled in a perfectly toasted French baguette will leave you craving more. With just 25 minutes from prep to plate, this recipe is not only quick but also a delicious adventure for your palate. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this irresistible dish that’s sure to become a favorite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Turkey breast
- Lemongrass
- French baguette
- Cucumber
- Pickled carrots
- Fresh cilantro
- Mayonnaise
- Chili sauce
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the turkey breast. If it is not already thinly sliced, slice it into thin cutlets to allow for quick and even cooking. This will help the turkey absorb the flavors of the marinade.
- Prepare the lemongrass by trimming the ends and removing the tough outer layers. Finely chop the tender white part of the lemongrass. In a bowl, combine the chopped lemongrass with a tablespoon of oil, salt, and pepper to create a marinade for the turkey.
- Add the sliced turkey breast to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Allow the turkey to marinate for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
- While the turkey is marinating, prepare the pickled carrots. If you don’t have pre-pickled carrots, julienne fresh carrots and soak them in a mixture of equal parts vinegar and sugar for about 10 minutes. This will add a tangy crunch to your banh mi.
- Slice the cucumber into thin strips or rounds for easy layering in the sandwich. Set aside.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated turkey on the grill. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side, or until the turkey is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- While the turkey is grilling, prepare the French baguettes. Slice them in half lengthwise, but not all the way through, so they can hold the fillings. If desired, lightly toast the baguettes on the grill for a minute to enhance their texture.
- Once the turkey is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a minute. This will help retain its juices.
- To assemble the banh mi, spread a layer of mayonnaise on the inside of each baguette. Add a generous layer of the grilled lemongrass turkey, followed by the pickled carrots and cucumber slices.
- Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a drizzle of chili sauce, adjusting the amount according to your spice preference.
- Close the baguette and gently press down to hold everything together. Cut the sandwich in half if desired, and serve immediately while warm.
- Enjoy your Grilled Lemongrass Turkey Banh Mi with a side of extra pickled carrots or a light salad for a refreshing meal!
Tips
- Marinate for Flavor: For an even deeper flavor, consider marinating the turkey for longer than 10 minutes. If time allows, let it sit in the refrigerator for up to an hour to really absorb the lemongrass essence.
- Customize Your Crunch: Feel free to get creative with the pickled carrots! You can add thinly sliced radishes or jalapeños for an extra kick and crunch.
- Grill Marks Matter: Ensure your grill or grill pan is preheated before adding the turkey. This will not only give you those beautiful grill marks but also lock in the juices for a more succulent bite.
- Toast for Texture: Lightly toasting the baguette can enhance the overall texture of your banh mi. A quick grill on both sides will give it a satisfying crunch that complements the tender turkey.
- Perfect Portions: When assembling your sandwich, don’t be shy with the fillings! Layer generously with turkey, pickled veggies, and fresh herbs for a truly satisfying experience.
- Spice it Up: Adjust the amount of chili sauce to your liking. If you enjoy heat, go for a drizzle; if you prefer milder flavors, a light touch will do.
- Serve Fresh: Banh Mi is best enjoyed fresh. Assemble just before serving to keep the baguette crispy and the ingredients vibrant.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 435kcal
Carbohydrates: 47g
Protein: 32g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 75mg
