Spicy Meatball Banh Mi Sandwiches: A Bold Fusion Delight

Spicy Meatball Banh Mi Sandwiches bring a bold twist to the classic Vietnamese sandwich. Juicy, flavorful meatballs coated in a spicy glaze are paired with fresh pickled vegetables, crisp cilantro, and creamy mayonnaise, all nestled in a crusty baguette. This irresistible combination of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors is perfect for lunch or dinner and will satisfy any craving for a hearty, flavorful meal.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450g) ground pork or beef
• 1/4 cup (25g) breadcrumbs
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili paste (adjust for spice level)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 egg

For the Spicy Glaze:

• 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 2 tablespoons sriracha
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

For the Pickled Vegetables:

• 1 cup (100g) shredded carrots
• 1 cup (100g) thinly sliced daikon radish
• 1/2 cup (120ml) rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup (50g) sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For Assembly:

• 4 small baguettes or crusty rolls
• Mayonnaise
• Fresh cilantro sprigs
• Thinly sliced jalapeños (optional)
• Cucumber slices

Directions

1. Prepare the Pickled Vegetables:
   • In a bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved.
   • Add shredded carrots and daikon radish. Let them pickle for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
2. Make the Meatballs:
   • In a large bowl, combine ground pork or beef, breadcrumbs, garlic, soy sauce, fish sauce, sriracha, black pepper, and egg. Mix until well combined.
   • Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
   • Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the meatballs until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally.
3. Prepare the Spicy Glaze:
   • In a small bowl, mix hoisin sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar.
   • Once the meatballs are cooked, pour the glaze into the skillet and toss the meatballs to coat evenly.
4. Assemble the Banh Mi:
   • Slice the baguettes open lengthwise, leaving one side intact. Spread mayonnaise on one or both sides of the bread.
   • Layer the sandwich with cucumber slices, glazed meatballs, pickled vegetables, fresh cilantro, and jalapeño slices (if using).
   • Close the sandwich and serve immediately.

Enjoy your Spicy Meatball Banh Mi Sandwiches with a cold drink and plenty of napkins!