Houstonist Cooks: Vietnamese Sandwiches

Houstonist has told you about one of our favorite lunch bargains - Vietnamese Sandwiches, and at $1.50 - $3.00 a pop, they're a definite bargain. Now, we'll give you a recipe, in case you feel all picnic-like over the weekend and want to make your own. As with most of our recipes, we encourage a little "gastronomic experimentation" as your taste allows. Like the "jalapeno/cayenne/serrano/garlic" additions - we love more - that is just us. Ah, Banh Mi, how yummy, how meatatarian - we're thinking you can substitute some firm tofu if you desire, just give a broil or a quick pan saute, maybe w/ a nice soy sauce/chili paste/sesame oil combination, if you like. We are digressing and lunch is upon us, so here you go!

Banh Mi

4 boneless pork loin chops, cut 1/4 inch thick
4 (7 inch) French bread baguettes, split lengthwise - or bolillos
4 teaspoons mayonnaise, or to taste
1 ounce chile sauce with garlic (Siracha)
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
1 small red onion, sliced into rings
1 medium cucumber, peeled and sliced lengthwise
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, or to taste
1/4 cup each, as desired, shredded carrot, pickled carrot, jicama or bean sprout
salt and pepper to taste

Pre-heat broiler and place pork chops on a pan - broil for 5 minutes, turning once - or until juices run clear. NOTE: This would be a fabulous use of that leftover grilled/barbecued chicken or maybe brisket that is not drenched in sauce - get creative, or you know, go tofu if you like.

Build your sandwich by applying mayonnaise to the roll, smearing chili paste on the chop (or, just substitute some sliced fresh hot pepper - such as jalapeno, serrano or whatever you have on hand), sprinkle lightly with lime juice and top with your favorite veggies from the list. To finish, give it another little drizzle of juice and salt/pepper to taste.

Grab Boo Boo, your pic-a-nic basket, some wine or "cobeer" or some "cokes" and enjoy your Labor Day Weekend! Be safe, eat well, live large and "smoke 'em if ya got 'em", out of doors, or until someone figures out how to and who will enforce this new ban.