Introduction
Craving a delicious and unique burger experience? Look no further than the Vietnamese Banh Mi Pork Burger with Pickled Veggies! This fusion dish combines the savory goodness of a juicy pork burger with the refreshing flavors of a classic Banh Mi sandwich. Imagine tender, seasoned pork nestled between a soft bun, topped with crisp, tangy pickled vegetables, fresh cilantro, and a spicy mayo kick. It’s a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a weekend BBQ, or any occasion where you want to impress with something a little different.
The Ultimate Banh Mi Pork Burger Recipe
The Pork Patty: Flavor is Key
The heart of this burger is the pork patty. Here’s how to make it bursting with flavor:
- Ground Pork: Use ground pork with a good fat content (around 80/20) for a juicy patty.
- Marinade: Combine soy sauce, fish sauce, garlic, ginger, brown sugar, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a Vietnamese-inspired marinade. Let the pork marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even better, overnight in the refrigerator.
- Binders: A beaten egg and panko breadcrumbs will help bind the patty together without making it too dense.
- Cooking: Cook the patties on a grill, in a skillet, or even in the oven until they are cooked through and slightly browned. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Pickled Veggies: The Tangy Crunch
No Banh Mi is complete without pickled veggies! Here’s a quick recipe:
- Veggies: Thinly slice carrots and daikon radish. A mandoline slicer is your friend here!
- Pickling Brine: Combine white vinegar, water, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Heat until the sugar dissolves, then let it cool slightly.
- Pickling Time: Pour the brine over the veggies and let them pickle for at least 30 minutes. The longer they sit, the more flavorful they become! Overnight is ideal.
The Banh Mi Burger Sauce: Spicy Mayo Magic
A creamy, spicy mayo ties everything together:
- Mayo Base: Use your favorite mayonnaise as a base.
- Spice: Sriracha is the classic choice, but you can also use chili garlic sauce for extra flavor. Adjust the amount to your preferred spice level.
- Lime Juice: A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens up the sauce and adds a touch of acidity.
Assembling Your Banh Mi Masterpiece
Now for the fun part! Here’s how to assemble your Banh Mi Pork Burger:
- The Bun: Toast your favorite burger buns lightly. Banh Mi rolls are great if you can find them!
- Base Layer: Spread a generous amount of the spicy mayo on the bottom bun.
- Pork Patty: Place the cooked pork patty on top of the mayo.
- Pickled Veggies: Pile on the pickled carrots and daikon radish. Don’t be shy!
- Fresh Herbs: Add a generous amount of fresh cilantro sprigs. Mint also works well. Jalapeño slices are optional for an extra kick.
- Top Bun: Top with the other half of the bun and enjoy!
Conclusion
The Vietnamese Banh Mi Pork Burger with Pickled Veggies is a delightful fusion dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. From the juicy, marinated pork patty to the tangy pickled vegetables and the spicy mayo, every bite is an explosion of textures and tastes. So ditch the boring burger and try this Banh Mi inspired creation – you won’t regret it! It’s the perfect way to bring a taste of Vietnam to your next cookout or weeknight dinner. Don’t forget to share your creations online using #BanhMiBurger and #VietnameseFood!
