Why Make This Recipe
Banh Mi Meatballs are a tasty twist on a classic Vietnamese sandwich. They combine the flavors of traditional Banh Mi with the comfort of meatballs. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. The blend of savory pork and fresh herbs, topped with crisp pickled vegetables and spicy mayo, makes every bite delicious. Plus, it’s a fun way to enjoy a popular dish at home.
How to Make Banh Mi Meatballs
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Pickled vegetables (carrots, daikon)
- Spicy mayo (mayonnaise mixed with sriracha)
- Baguette or slider buns for serving
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine ground pork, breadcrumbs, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, fish sauce, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined and shape the mixture into meatballs.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the meatballs on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
- Serve the meatballs in baguette or slider buns, topped with pickled veggies and spicy mayo.
How to Serve Banh Mi Meatballs
Serve Banh Mi Meatballs in a fresh baguette or slider buns. Add a generous helping of pickled vegetables for a tangy crunch and drizzle some spicy mayo on top to kick things up a notch. You can also serve them alongside a simple salad or some fresh herbs for extra flavor.
How to Store Banh Mi Meatballs
To store leftovers, let the meatballs cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving again. If you have leftover pickled vegetables, keep those in the fridge as well.
Tips to Make Banh Mi Meatballs
- Don’t skip the herbs! Fresh cilantro adds a lot of flavor to these meatballs.
- Adjust the spice level. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount of sriracha in the spicy mayo.
- Use day-old bread for breadcrumbs. This makes the meatballs more flavorful and helps with the texture.
Variation
You can easily switch out the ground pork for ground chicken or turkey if you want a leaner option. Additionally, try adding other spices like ginger or lemongrass for a unique taste.
FAQs
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and shape them. Store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking.
How can I make pickled vegetables?
To make quick pickled veggies, soak thinly sliced carrots and daikon in a mix of vinegar, sugar, and salt for at least 30 minutes.
What can I use instead of baguette?
If you can’t find a baguette, slider buns or even lettuce wraps work great for a lower-carb option.
Banh Mi Meatballs
Ingredients
For the meatballs
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Use day-old bread for better flavor and texture.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped Fresh cilantro adds flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For serving
- Pickled vegetables (carrots, daikon) Add for a tangy crunch.
- Spicy mayo (mayonnaise mixed with sriracha) Adjust spice to preference.
- Baguette or slider buns Use for serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine ground pork, breadcrumbs, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, fish sauce, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined and shape the mixture into meatballs.
Cooking
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the meatballs on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Serving
- Serve the meatballs in baguette or slider buns, topped with pickled veggies and spicy mayo.