Are you ready to indulge in the delightful flavors of Vietnam without leaving your home? This Banh Mi Rice Bowl recipe brings all the deliciousness of the classic Vietnamese sandwich and transforms it into a hearty, satisfying meal. Perfect for lunch or dinner, these bowls are packed with flavor and texture, marrying savory ground pork with the crunch of fresh veggies, the tang of pickled carrots, and a spicy mayo that will elevate your culinary experience. Not only is this dish incredibly appetizing, but it’s also quick to prepare, making it the ideal choice for busy weeknights.
The appeal of this Banh Mi Rice Bowl goes beyond just taste; it’s all about the harmony of flavors and textures. The jasmine rice serves as a comforting base, while the ground pork, seasoned with aromatic garlic and ginger, provides a savory punch that is both satisfying and rich. Adding pickled carrots adds brightness and a touch of sweetness, and the fresh cucumber and cilantro contribute a crisp, refreshing note.
Whether you’re a fan of Vietnamese cuisine or just looking for a new dinner idea, this dish offers numerous benefits including easy preparation and the option to customize with your favorite toppings. Enjoy culinary creativity as you experiment with toppings and ingredients to make this recipe your own. Let’s explore how to make the perfect Banh Mi Rice Bowl together!
Why You’ll Love This Banh Mi Rice Bowl
- Flavor-packed ground pork that’s perfectly spiced.
- Crisp and refreshing vegetables that elevate the dish.
- Quick preparation time makes it perfect for busy nights.
- A healthy mix of ingredients provides balanced nutrition.
- Spicy mayo adds a kick that complements the flavor!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the cooking process of your Banh Mi Rice Bowl, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen space efficiently. First, gather all your ingredients: ground pork, jasmine rice, carrots, cucumber, and spices, as well as the tools you’ll need. A large skillet will be essential for cooking the pork, a cutting board and knife for fresh vegetables, and mixing bowls for preparing your pickled carrots and spicy mayo.
Make sure you have measuring spoons to ensure accurate measurements, especially for the flavorful sauces. Depending on how spicy you want your mayo, have the sriracha ready. Having everything measured and within reach will streamline the cooking process and make it enjoyable. Don’t forget to soak your jasmine rice fully to achieve the best texture.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked jasmine rice
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Thinly sliced jalapeño
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Jasmine Rice
Start by preparing your jasmine rice according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves rinsing the rice under cold water to remove excess starch, which helps keep it from becoming sticky. After rinsing, combine it with the appropriate amount of water in a saucepan, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer until fluffy. Once cooked, set it aside, keeping it warm while you move on to the rest of the components.
Step 2: Pickling Carrots for Tangy Flavor
In a small bowl, mix together the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved to set the base for your pickling. Add the shredded carrots to this mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged and mixed evenly. Allow them to sit for at least 10 minutes; this quick pickling method infuses them with tangy flavor, balancing the richness of the pork.
Step 3: Prepare the Ground Pork
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, and once it’s hot, add the ground pork. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking until the pork is browned and fragrant, usually about 5-7 minutes. As the pork cooks, add the soy sauce, fish sauce, sesame oil, and brown sugar, stirring to combine. Let everything simmer for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes sticky. This ensures the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 4: Whip Up the Spicy Mayo
While the pork is cooking, take a mixing bowl and combine mayonnaise with sriracha. Stir until fully blended for a creamy, spicy drizzle that will enhance the bowl’s overall flavor. Adjust the amount of sriracha based on your desired spice level. This creamy topping is what adds the unmistakable bang to the dish.
Step 5: Assemble Your Banh Mi Rice Bowls
Now it’s time for the fun part! In serving bowls, divide the fluffy jasmine rice as your base layer. Top each bowl with a generous portion of the seasoned pork, followed by the tangy pickled carrots. Sprinkle sliced cucumber, fresh cilantro, and thinly sliced jalapeño to finish for a colorful and appetizing display. Don’t forget to set lime wedges on the side; a squeeze of lime just before eating brightens all the flavors!
Variations
- Protein: Swap out ground pork for ground chicken, turkey, or beef for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetables: Add sliced radishes, bell peppers, or broccoli florets for extra crunch and nutrition.
- Spices: Experiment with adding cilantro stems into the pork mix or use a dash of oyster sauce for deeper flavor.
Cooking Notes
- Be sure to finely shred the carrots for quicker pickling.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute ground pork with a mix of mushrooms and tofu.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a light, refreshing salad on the side for a complete meal.
- Serve with a cold beverage, such as iced tea or a light lager beer.
Tips
- Prep the vegetables and sauces ahead of time for a speedy meal.
- Taste your spicy mayo before serving to adjust heat levels to personal preference.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
- Protein: 18g
- Sodium: 560mg
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, components like the pickled carrots and cooked pork can be made ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge and assemble right before serving.
What can I substitute for fish sauce?
If you prefer not to use fish sauce, you can try soy sauce or a vegan substitute such as mushroom sauce.
Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice offers a nuttier flavor and texture. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as brown rice usually takes longer to cook.
How can I customize my Banh Mi Rice Bowl?
You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite toppings such as avocado, different sauces, or even fresh herbs to enhance the flavors!
Conclusion
This Banh Mi Rice Bowl recipe is sure to become a beloved dish in your kitchen. Not only does it offer the familiar flavors of the classic Vietnamese sandwich, but it also provides a warm, comforting meal that is perfect for any occasion. With its quick preparation time, vibrant ingredients, and mouthwatering taste, you will want to make this again and again! So don’t forget to comment below with your thoughts, variations, and anything else that made your Banh Mi Rice Bowl special. Happy cooking!
Print
Banh Mi Rice Bowl
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Vietnam with this hearty Banh Mi Rice Bowl, perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked jasmine rice
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Thinly sliced jalapeño
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Cook the jasmine rice according to package instructions.
- Pickle the carrots by mixing rice vinegar, sugar, and salt, then add shredded carrots.
- In a skillet, cook ground pork with garlic and ginger until browned, adding sauces at the end.
- Mix mayonnaise and sriracha for the spicy mayo.
- Assemble bowls with rice, pork, pickled carrots, cucumber, cilantro, and jalapeño, adding lime wedges on the side.
Notes
You can make components like the pickled carrots and cooked pork ahead of time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sodium: 560 mg
- Protein: 18 g