Korean BBQ Meatball Banh Mi

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A marriage of vibrant Vietnamese street food and the smoky-sweet punch of Korean flavors, this Korean BBQ Meatball Banh Mi is anything but ordinary. Juicy meatballs glazed in sticky gochujang sauce are nestled into a crisp baguette, layered with creamy mayo, tangy pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and a pop of heat from jalapeños.

Each bite delivers a festival of textures: the crunch of carrots and daikon, the pillowy bread interior giving way to a toasty crust, and the tender, flavor-packed meatballs stealing the show. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive weekend lunch, this sandwich is destined to become your new obsession.

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Why You’ll Love This Korean BBQ Meatball Banh Mi

It’s the kind of recipe that delivers on all fronts—flavor, texture, and presentation. The fusion of Korean and Vietnamese culinary traditions means you get sweet, spicy, tangy, and savory all in one bite. It’s also adaptable: swap in chicken or pork meatballs, adjust the heat to your liking, or make them ahead for easy entertaining.

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What Kind of Bread Works Best for Banh Mi Sandwiches?

Authenticity lovers swear by the airy, crisp Vietnamese baguette, but any good-quality baguette or French bread will do the trick. The key is a loaf with a thin, crackly crust and a soft, fluffy inside so it holds the fillings without overpowering them. Avoid dense breads that make the sandwich too heavy—this recipe is all about balance.

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Ingredients for the Korean BBQ Meatball Banh Mi

Choosing the right ingredients sets the tone for the entire sandwich. Each component adds to the symphony of flavors and textures that make this dish unforgettable.

• Ground pork – Rich and juicy, perfect for binding in Korean-inspired meatballs.
• Gochujang – The sweet-spicy Korean chili paste that gives the meatballs their signature glaze.
• Soy sauce – Adds depth and umami to the meat mixture.
• Garlic & ginger – Fresh aromatics that infuse the meatballs with warmth and fragrance.
• Panko breadcrumbs – Keep the meatballs tender while adding a light structure.
• Egg – Helps bind the meatball mixture.
• Carrots & daikon – Thinly sliced and pickled for a crunchy, tangy topping.
• Rice vinegar & sugar – The quick-pickle heroes for vegetables.
• Cucumber slices – Cool, crisp freshness to balance the spice.
• Fresh cilantro – Herbal brightness in every bite.
• Jalapeño slices – For those who like an extra kick.
• Mayonnaise – Creamy base layer to bring it all together.
• Baguette – The vessel that holds all the goodness.

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How To Make the Korean BBQ Meatball Banh Mi

Step 1: Prep the Pickled Vegetables

Combine rice vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Add julienned carrots and daikon, then let them sit for at least 30 minutes while you prepare the rest.

Step 2: Make the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, mix ground pork, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, panko, and egg until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.

Step 3: Shape and Cook the Meatballs

Form into small, bite-sized balls. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through.

Step 4: Glaze with Gochujang Sauce

In a separate pan, combine gochujang with a splash of soy sauce, sugar, and water. Toss the cooked meatballs in the sauce until fully coated and glossy.

Step 5: Assemble the Banh Mi

Slice the baguette lengthwise. Spread mayonnaise on both sides, layer in cucumber slices, glazed meatballs, pickled vegetables, cilantro, and jalapeños. Close the sandwich and serve immediately.

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Serving and Storing the Korean BBQ Meatball Banh Mi

This recipe yields 4 generous sandwiches, making it perfect for family meals or a casual dinner with friends. Serve immediately after assembly for the best crunch and freshness. If you need to prepare ahead, store the components separately: keep the meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and the pickled vegetables will last for up to a week. Assemble just before eating to preserve the baguette’s crispness.

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What to Serve With Korean BBQ Meatball Banh Mi?

1. Spicy Korean Kimchi

Adds a fermented tang that pairs perfectly with the sweet-spicy meatballs.

2. Sweet Potato Fries

The sweetness balances the heat while offering a satisfying crunch.

3. Asian Slaw

A fresh, citrusy side to complement the bold flavors of the sandwich.

4. Cold Sesame Noodle Salad

Nutty and refreshing, it’s an excellent counterpoint to the richness of the meatballs.

5. Vietnamese Iced Coffee

Strong, sweet, and creamy—ideal for washing down the bold flavors.

6. Edamame with Sea Salt

A light, protein-packed snack to round out your meal.

7. Pickled Jalapeños

For those who like to double down on the heat.

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Want More Sandwich Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Korean BBQ Meatball Banh Mi, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites from our collection:

• Garlic Butter Meatballs with Velvety Parmesan Penne for a creamy Italian-inspired indulgence.
• Texas Toast Sloppy Joes when you crave a bold, messy comfort food classic.
• Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf for a hearty, flavor-packed twist on tradition.
• Buffalo Chicken Lasagna to spice up pasta night.
• Easy Veggie Patties for a plant-based alternative.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go heavy on the jalapeños or keep it mild? Maybe you swapped the baguette for ciabatta? I love hearing how you make these recipes your own.

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