Vietnamese Sandwich

While teaching English in Asia the past several years, I've been lucky to exchange some delicious and authentic recipes with local people. This Vietnamese banh mi sandwich is awesome, and it is a nice break from common sandwiches. The garlic chili sauce is common in Asian sections of markets but Indonesian sambal or Korean chili paste can also be substituted. Beer or red wine is the beverage of choice for this authentic recipe of French-influenced Vietnamese cuisine.

• Preparation Time: 10 mins
• Cooking Time: 5 mins
• Total Time: 15 mins
• Calories: 627 Calories

Ingredients

• ¼ cup fresh lime juice
• salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• 4 boneless pork loin chops, cut 1/4 inch thick
• 4 (7 inch) French bread baguettes, split lengthwise
• 4 teaspoons mayonnaise, or to taste
• 1 ounce chile sauce with garlic
• 1 small red onion, sliced into rings
• 1 medium cucumber, peeled and sliced lengthwise

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Preheat the oven's broiler. Place the pork chops on a broiling pan and set under the broiler. Cook for about 5 minutes, turning once, or until browned on each side.

Step 2

Open the French rolls and spread mayonnaise on the insides. Place one of the cooked pork chops into each roll. Spread chile sauce directly on the meat. Sprinkle with a little lime juice and top with slices of onion, cucumber, cilantro, salt and pepper. Finish with another quick drizzle of lime juice.