Get ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey through the vibrant streets of Vietnam with this show-stopping Caramel Pork Banh Mi that promises to transform your ordinary lunch into an extraordinary culinary experience. Imagine tender, glossy pork caramelized to perfection, nestled in a crispy baguette with tangy pickled vegetables and fresh herbs – this isn't just a sandwich, it's a flavor explosion that will transport you straight to the bustling markets of Saigon with every single bite!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork shoulder, sliced
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 baguette
- Pickled carrots and daikon
- Cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the caramel sauce by heating sugar in a large skillet over medium heat. Watch carefully as the sugar melts and turns a deep amber color, about 4-5 minutes. Do not stir, only swirl the pan occasionally.
- Carefully add soy sauce and fish sauce to the caramel, which will bubble and steam. Stir to combine and create a smooth caramel sauce.
- Add sliced pork shoulder to the caramel sauce, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until pork is tender and deeply glazed.
- While pork cooks, prepare the pickled carrots and daikon. If not pre-pickled, quickly pickle vegetables by mixing with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt for 15 minutes.
- Slice baguette lengthwise and lightly toast until crisp and golden around the edges.
- Assemble banh mi by layering caramel pork, pickled vegetables, and fresh cilantro leaves on the toasted baguette.
- Slice banh mi diagonally and serve immediately while pork is still warm and bread is crisp.
Tips
- Sugar Caramelization is Key: Watch your sugar like a hawk when making the caramel sauce. The difference between perfect amber and burnt is just seconds!
- Use High-Quality Pork: Choose a well-marbled pork shoulder for maximum tenderness and flavor absorption.
- Quick Pickle Hack: If you're short on time, pre-shredded bagged coleslaw mix works wonderfully for your pickled vegetables.
- Bread Matters: A fresh, crusty French-style baguette is non-negotiable for authentic banh mi texture.
- Don't Rush the Cooking: Low and slow is the secret to getting that melt-in-your-mouth caramelized pork.
- Fresh Herbs are Essential: Always add cilantro just before serving to maintain its bright, fresh flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 75mg
