Puff Pastry Banh Mi

Background and History

The Banh Mi is a Vietnamese sandwich that stands as a delectable amalgamation of French and Vietnamese cuisines, born out of a complex colonial history. Combining the French fixation on crusty baguettes with the vibrant, fresh flavors of Vietnamese ingredients, it offers a unique culinary experience that tantalizes the taste buds. This version places the traditional Banh Mi fillings into crispy, buttery puff pastry, creating a delightful fusion that is both satisfying and refreshing. The evolution of this sandwich symbolizes cultural resilience and ingenuity, as Vietnamese chefs adapted French influences to create something uniquely theirs.

Ingredients

• Puff Pastry (1 sheet)
• Chicken Breast (1 large, cooked and shredded)
• Carrots (1/2 cup, julienned)
• Cucumber (1/2 cup, sliced thin)
• Daikon Radish (1/2 cup, julienned)
• Cilantro (1/4 cup, fresh leaves)
• Jalapeños (1, sliced)
• Mayonnaise (2 tablespoons)
• Soy Sauce (1 tablespoon)
• Rice Vinegar (1 tablespoon)
• Sugar (1 teaspoon)
• Salt (to taste)
• Black Pepper (to taste)

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface to a rectangle approximately 12x10 inches. Once prepared, set it aside to chill.

Step 2: Making the Pickled Vegetables

In a small bowl, combine carrots, cucumber, and daikon radish. In another bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Pour the vinegar mixture over the vegetables, toss to coat, and let them sit for 30 minutes to pickle.

Cooking Process

Step 3: Creating the Filling

In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with soy sauce, mayonnaise, and some black pepper. Add the pickled vegetables to the chicken mixture and stir until well combined.

Step 4: Assembling the Puff Pastry

Place the chicken and vegetable mixture along one side of the puff pastry. Fold the pastry over the filling and seal the edges by pressing with a fork.

Step 5: Baking

Transfer the filled pastry to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy. For precise timing, you can use a cooking timer. Once baked, allow it to cool slightly.

Serving Tips

Slice the puff pastry Banh Mi into portions and serve warm. Garnish with fresh cilantro and jalapeños for a spicy kick. Pair the dish with a fresh salad or a side of pickled vegetables to complement the rich flavors. Enjoy your meal as a satisfying lunch option, a light dinner, or a unique appetizer for special gatherings.