A bold take on the classic Vietnamese sandwich, this version layers spicy sardines, crunchy pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs into a soft roll slathered with jalapeño-infused mayo. It’s fast, fiery, and surprisingly easy to prep ahead.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Pickling Time: 1 hour (or overnight)
Total Active Time: 20 minutes
Serves: 2
What You’ll Need
For the Pickled Vegetables
(Makes enough for 4 sandwiches — store extras in the fridge)
-
4 oz (about 1.5 cups) carrot, matchstick cut
-
6 oz (about 2 cups) daikon radish, matchstick cut
-
1 tsp kosher salt
-
¼ cup white vinegar
-
¼ cup + 2 tbsp water
-
1½ tbsp sugar
For the Sandwiches
-
2 soft baguettes, bolillo, or torpedo rolls
-
2 tbsp mayonnaise
-
¼ tsp liquid aminos or Maggi seasoning (optional)
-
1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
-
Fresh cilantro sprigs
How to Make It
-
Pickle the Veg
Toss the carrot and daikon with salt in a bowl and let sit for 10 minutes, until they begin to soften and release liquid. -
Transfer the vegetables (leaving the liquid behind) to a resealable container. Stir in the vinegar, water, and sugar.
-
Let sit at room temp for at least 1 hour—or refrigerate for 1-3 days for even better flavor.
Shortcut: Store-bought pickled carrot and daikon can be found at most Asian markets.
-
Make the Spicy Mayo
Mix the mayo with a spoonful of the jalapeño oil from the sardine tin. Stir in the liquid aminos or Maggi if you like a little extra umami. -
Assemble the Sandwiches
Lightly toast the rolls if desired. Slice them lengthwise and spread both sides with the jalapeño mayo. Divide the sardines between the rolls. -
Top & Serve
Layer on the sliced cucumber, a generous handful of the pickled vegetables, and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately while the bread is still soft and the contrast is crisp.
Why It Works
Lata's jalapeño-packed sardines bring a smoky, spicy punch that cuts right through the tangy-sweet crunch of the pickled veg. The seasoned mayo ties everything together. It’s the kind of sandwich that wakes up your taste buds and keeps you coming back.
Tips & Substitutions
-
No daikon? Any crisp radish works fine—slice smaller ones instead of matchsticking.
-
Can’t find bolillo rolls? Use soft baguette or even hoagie rolls.
-
No spicy sardines? Add fresh jalapeño slices to sardines in plain olive oil.
Let us know how you serve yours—and don’t forget to tag @get.lata so we can see your creation!
