Last Updated on November 2, 2024 by Arif Chowdhury

If you’re on the hunt for a delicious, satisfying meal that also supports your weight loss journey, look no further than Shrimp Banh Mi!

This Vietnamese-style sandwich is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s also packed with fresh ingredients and flavors that make every bite an adventure.

With perfectly seasoned shrimp, crisp pickled vegetables, cool cucumber, and zesty sriracha mayo, this recipe balances flavor and nutrition beautifully.

Let’s dive into the world of Shrimp Banh Mi and explore its health benefits, along with a detailed recipe that you can whip up in no time!

What Makes Shrimp Banh Mi Special?

Shrimp Banh Mi is a fusion of flavors and textures, making it a standout in the world of sandwiches. Originating from Vietnam, Banh Mi traditionally features a variety of proteins, but shrimp adds a delightful twist with its lightness and quick cooking time.

Nutritional Benefits of Shrimp

Shrimp is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly nutritious! In fact, shrimp is low in calories, with only about 60 calories per 3-ounce serving.

It’s also a rich source of protein, providing around 18 grams of protein in that same serving.

Additionally, shrimp contains essential nutrients like selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine, all of which play vital roles in maintaining a healthy body.

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh vegetables and herbs in your Banh Mi not only enhances the flavor but also adds crucial vitamins and minerals.

For instance, cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories, while cilantro is packed with antioxidants. The pickled vegetables provide a nice crunch and tanginess that perfectly complements the shrimp.

Key Ingredients for Shrimp Banh Mi

Before we get into the recipe, let’s talk about the key ingredients that make this sandwich so special:

• Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp, peeled and deveined.
• Baguette: A light, crusty Vietnamese baguette is ideal, but any whole-grain or gluten-free option will work.
• Pickled Vegetables: A mix of carrots and daikon radish, pickled in vinegar and sugar.
• Cucumber: Fresh cucumber adds a refreshing crunch.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings that signature herby flavor.
• Sriracha Mayo: A spicy mayo made with mayonnaise and sriracha for a creamy kick.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Shrimp Banh Mi

Ready to make your own Shrimp Banh Mi? Here’s a detailed recipe that will guide you through the process. This recipe serves about 4 sandwiches.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pickled Vegetables

• 1 cup carrots, julienned
• 1 cup daikon radish, julienned
• 1 cup vinegar (white or rice vinegar)
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup water

For the Sriracha Mayo

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon lime juice

For Assembly

• 4 Vietnamese baguettes or whole-grain bread
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• Fresh cilantro leaves

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pickled Vegetables

1. In a bowl, combine vinegar, sugar, salt, and water. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the julienned carrots and daikon to the mixture. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes. For best results, refrigerate for a few hours or overnight.

Step 2: Make the Sriracha Mayo

1. In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice. Adjust the amount of sriracha based on your spice preference. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

1. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque.

Step 4: Assemble the Banh Mi

1. Slice the baguettes in half lengthwise, but not all the way through.
2. Spread a generous amount of sriracha mayo on both sides of the baguette.
3. Layer the cooked shrimp, pickled vegetables, cucumber slices, and fresh cilantro inside the baguette.
4. If desired, add more sriracha for an extra kick!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the Shrimp Banh Mi immediately, or wrap them up for a delicious meal on the go. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the crunch of fresh veggies!

The Health Benefits of Shrimp Banh Mi

Eating Shrimp Banh Mi not only tantalizes your taste buds but can also be a healthy choice. The combination of shrimp and fresh vegetables makes it a nutrient-dense meal. Here are some benefits:

• Low Calorie: Each sandwich can be under 400 calories, depending on the ingredients you choose.
• High Protein: With shrimp providing ample protein, you can feel fuller longer, which aids in weight loss.
• Rich in Nutrients: The fresh vegetables provide vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, which is essential for digestion.

Creative Variations to Try

While the classic Shrimp Banh Mi is fantastic as is, you can also experiment with different ingredients:

• Swap Proteins: Try grilled chicken, tofu, or even crab for a different flavor.
• Add Avocado: For creaminess, add slices of avocado.
• Spice it Up: Incorporate jalapeños for an extra kick.

Conclusion

Shrimp Banh Mi is more than just a sandwich; it’s a delightful experience that brings together fresh ingredients and bold flavors.

Whether you’re looking for a meal that’s easy to prepare or simply want to indulge in something tasty without the guilt, this Vietnamese-style sandwich has got you covered.

So grab your ingredients, get creative, and enjoy every scrumptious bite of this healthy, flavorful dish!