What You Need to Know
The process involves the action of wild yeast and lactic acid bacteria on the sugars present in the dough, producing carbon dioxide gas and lactic acid, as well as the gelatinization of starches during baking and the preservation of vegetables through pickling.
Steps
- 1.
Banh Mi Thit Nuong (Southern Vietnam): Grilled pork marinated in lemongrass balances with pickled vegetables' acidity
- 2.
Banh Mi Ga (Hanoi): Shredded chicken filling showcases the bread's texture contrast
- 3.
Banh Mi Chay (Buddhist communities): Vegetarian version highlights pickling and bread fermentation
The Science
Primary Reaction
Fermentation and gelatinization