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Banh Mi Rice Bowl

Banh Mi Rice Bowl
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The Banh Mi Rice Bowl is a vibrant and fresh twist on the classic Vietnamese sandwich, combining crunchy pickled vegetables, savory protein, fragrant herbs, and a tangy dressing over fluffy jasmine rice. This colorful bowl balances textures and flavors perfectly, making it a quick, customizable, and satisfying meal ideal for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Rice Base

  • Cooked jasmine rice – 2 cups

Pickled Vegetables

  • Carrots – 1 medium, julienned
  • Daikon radish – 1 medium, julienned
  • Rice vinegar – 1/2 cup
  • Sugar – 1 tablespoon
  • Salt – 1/2 teaspoon

Protein

  • Grilled chicken, pork, tofu, or beef – 8 ounces
  • Soy sauce – 2 tablespoons
  • Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
  • Sugar – 1 teaspoon

Fresh Vegetables and Herbs

  • Cilantro – 1/4 cup, chopped
  • Mint – 1/4 cup, chopped
  • Cucumber slices – 1/2 cup

Sauces and Garnishes

  • Spicy mayo or sriracha – 2 tablespoons
  • Sesame seeds – 1 teaspoon
  • Lime wedges – 2-3 wedges

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Rice: Cook jasmine rice according to package instructions until fluffy and grains are separate. Let it cool slightly while preparing the other ingredients.
  2. Pickle the Vegetables: Thinly slice carrots and daikon radish. Soak them in a mixture of rice vinegar, sugar, and salt for at least 15 minutes to achieve a bright, crunchy pickle.
  3. Cook the Protein: Marinate your choice of protein with soy sauce, minced garlic, and sugar for at least 30 minutes. Then grill or pan-fry until cooked through and caramelized on the edges.
  4. Assemble the Bowl: Layer jasmine rice in the bowl as a base. Top with pickled vegetables, your cooked protein, cucumber slices, and a generous handful of fresh cilantro and mint. Drizzle with spicy mayo or sriracha and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
  5. Final Touch: Serve the bowl with lime wedges on the side to squeeze over just before eating for a fresh citrus brightness.

Notes

  • Use day-old rice or allow freshly cooked rice to cool completely for the best texture in the bowl.
  • Make pickled vegetables ahead of time to deepen flavor and speed up meal assembly.
  • Allow protein to marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor.
  • Add fresh herbs just before serving to keep their vibrant color and aroma.
  • Taste test your spicy mayo or sauce to balance creaminess and heat to your liking.

Nutrition

Keywords: Banh Mi Rice Bowl, Vietnamese rice bowl, pickled vegetables, jasmine rice, spicy mayo, grilled protein, fresh herbs

Find it online: https://sophiespace.com/banh-mi-rice-bowl/