Canned sardines are a common banh mi filler

If you haven't yet embraced the world of preserved seafood, sardines are an excellent place to start. Just remember a few tips for using canned fish, and you'll find they are a fantastic source of healthy fats and protein—perfect for a sandwich filling. In fact, their rich oil content pairs wonderfully with the crunchy vegetable toppings typical of banh mi.
Begin by preparing classic ingredients like pickled daikon and carrots, which maintain their crunch in a marinade of rice wine vinegar (not to be confused with rice wine) and sugar. If you prefer a simpler approach, mix the sardines with mayonnaise, toss in fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, and basil, and add some jalapeños for a kick—this will create a delicious banh mi variation.
For those seeking a bolder flavor, opt for neutral-flavored sardines packed in oil and marinate them overnight. Incorporate aromatics such as shallots, chiles, lime zest, and cilantro, then drizzle with a mixture of lime juice and fish sauce. After 24 hours, you'll have a flavorful fish filling that beautifully complements the banh mi.
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