Irresistible Banh Mi Sandwich Recipe with Leftover Turkey

The tangy, savory, and sweet flavors of a classic banh mi sandwich are hard to beat, but what if I told you that you could create an equally delicious version with leftover turkey? Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a random turkey dinner, this irresistible banh mi sandwich is about to be your new favorite way to reinvent those leftovers. The crunch of pickled veggies, the creaminess of the spread, and the perfectly seasoned turkey come together for a sandwich that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Trust me, this recipe will make you fall in love with leftovers!

I first discovered the magic of banh mi during a trip to a tiny Vietnamese café, where the chef shared his secrets for creating the perfect balance of flavors. When I had an abundance of leftover turkey one holiday, I decided to experiment and create my own version of the banh mi. One bite, and I knew I had a winner. If you love the idea of turning leftovers into something fresh and exciting, this recipe is for you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for leftovers: Transform your leftover turkey into something extraordinary instead of the usual turkey sandwich.
• Quick and easy: You’ll have this sandwich ready in no time, perfect for when you’re craving something tasty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
• Authentic flavors: From the pickled veggies to the creamy spread, every bite captures the essence of a traditional banh mi with a fun twist.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level, swap out toppings, or even use different proteins for a sandwich tailored to your tastes.
• A crowd-pleaser: Kids love the crunch, adults love the complex flavors, and everyone loves the idea of a creative twist on leftovers.

This banh mi sandwich isn’t your average turkey recipe. It’s bold, vibrant, and the kind of meal that makes you excited to eat leftovers. Plus, it’s surprisingly healthy thanks to the fresh vegetables and lean protein. If you’ve been searching for a way to jazz up your post-holiday meals or just love trying international flavors, this is the recipe you need in your life.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, accessible ingredients to create a symphony of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Pickled Vegetables:

• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup thinly sliced daikon radish (or regular radish as an alternative)
• 1 cup sliced cucumber (seeded for less water content)
• 1 cup rice vinegar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Sandwich:

• 4 baguette rolls (or small French baguettes, lightly toasted)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sriracha or chili paste (adjust to taste)
• 2 cups leftover turkey, shredded or sliced
• Fresh cilantro leaves
• Jalapeño slices (optional)
• Sliced cucumbers (from pickled veggies)
• Pickled carrots and radish

These ingredients are easy to find in most grocery stores. Feel free to make substitutions, like using rotisserie chicken instead of turkey or swapping sriracha for a milder chili sauce.

Equipment Needed

• Sharp knife for slicing vegetables and bread
• Mandoline slicer (optional, for thinly slicing veggies)
• Small saucepan for preparing pickling liquid
• Mixing bowls for the veggies and sauces
• A toaster or oven for warming the bread
• Cutting board

If you don’t have a mandoline slicer, no worries—a sharp knife works just fine for slicing veggies. For toasting the baguettes, a regular oven or even a grill pan will do the trick. Simple tools will work perfectly!

Preparation Method

1. Prepare the pickled vegetables: In a small saucepan, combine the rice vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
2. Place the shredded carrots, sliced daikon radish, and cucumbers in a mixing bowl. Pour the vinegar mixture over the veggies, ensuring they’re fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
3. Toast the bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the baguette rolls in half lengthwise and place them on a baking sheet. Toast for about 5 minutes, or until warm and slightly crispy.
4. Make the spicy mayo: In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise and sriracha until smooth. Adjust the sriracha to your preferred spice level.
5. Assemble the banh mi sandwiches: Spread a generous layer of spicy mayo on each half of the toasted baguettes. Layer shredded turkey on the bottom half of each roll.
6. Top the turkey with pickled carrots, radish, and cucumbers. Add fresh cilantro leaves and jalapeño slices (if using) for an extra kick.
7. Place the top half of the baguette over the fillings, pressing gently to secure everything. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are a few tips to ensure your banh mi sandwich turns out perfect every time:

• Toast the bread lightly: You want the baguette to be crisp on the outside but still soft inside. Over-toasting can make it too hard to bite into.
• Don’t skip the pickling: The tangy pickled vegetables are crucial for achieving that authentic banh mi flavor. If you’re short on time, use store-bought pickled veggies.
• Balance the flavors: Adjust the spice level in the mayo and jalapeños based on your tolerance. You can even add a splash of soy sauce or fish sauce to the pickling liquid for extra umami.
• Layer strategically: Start with the turkey as the base, followed by the veggies, cilantro, and jalapeños. This keeps everything in place when eating.
• Experiment with bread: While traditional baguettes are ideal, ciabatta or even hoagie rolls work well if you’re in a pinch.

Variations & Adaptations

This banh mi sandwich is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Vegetarian version: Swap the turkey for grilled tofu, tempeh, or even roasted mushrooms. The pickled veggies and spicy mayo pair beautifully with plant-based proteins.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free baguettes or rolls. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
• Seasonal twist: Incorporate seasonal veggies like thinly sliced fennel or shredded cabbage for a fresh variation.
• Custom spice level: Add crushed garlic to the spicy mayo or sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Fusion flavors: Experiment with different spreads, like avocado crema or hoisin sauce, for a unique take on the classic banh mi.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This banh mi sandwich is best enjoyed fresh and warm, but here’s how to make the most of it:

• Serving: Serve immediately after assembling for the best flavor and texture. Pair it with a light soup or salad for a complete meal.
• Storage: Store leftover turkey and pickled veggies in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the bread separate to prevent it from getting soggy.
• Reheating: Warm the turkey gently in the microwave or stovetop before assembling the sandwich. Toast the bread again for a crisp finish.
• Flavors over time: Pickled veggies intensify in flavor the longer they sit, so making them a day ahead can add even more zing.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s what makes this recipe both delicious and nutritious:

• Protein-packed: Turkey is a lean source of protein, perfect for fueling your day.
• Low in fat: Using light mayo or Greek yogurt in the spicy sauce can reduce fat content without compromising flavor.
• Rich in vitamins: Carrots and radishes provide essential nutrients like vitamin A and antioxidants.
• Gluten-free adaptable: With a simple bread substitution, this recipe suits gluten-free diets.
• Allergen note: Contains eggs in the mayo; swap for vegan mayo if needed.

Conclusion

This irresistible banh mi sandwich recipe with leftover turkey is proof that leftovers can be exciting and full of flavor. It’s fresh, vibrant, and packed with textures that’ll leave you craving more. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this recipe is a winner every time.

Don’t be afraid to put your own spin on it—add more veggies, adjust the spice, or try a new protein. I personally love how the tangy pickled veggies bring everything together, making each bite unforgettable.

If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below or share your version on social media. Let’s make the most of leftovers, one delicious bite at a time!

FAQs

Can I use chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Leftover chicken works just as well in this recipe and delivers equally delicious results.

What if I don’t have daikon radish?

You can substitute regular radishes or even thinly sliced turnips for a similar crunch and flavor.

Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level depends on how much sriracha you use in the mayo. You can always reduce or omit it for a milder version.

How long do the pickled veggies last?

Pickled veggies can last up to a week in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

It’s best to assemble the sandwich just before serving to keep the bread crisp. However, you can prepare all the components ahead of time and store them separately.

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