Nothing draws people to the table quite like a beautifully curated board packed with vibrant flavours and textures. This Bánh Mì-inspired cheese board is a perfect blend of my Vietnamese heritage and love for festive treats, bringing together East and West in every bite. It’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal cooking, and it can be easily customised to your taste. Get creative, and enjoy this joyful centrepiece with friends and family.
Roast Pork Belly
- 500g pork belly, skinless
- 2 tbsp black pepper, crushed
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
Carrot & Daikon Pickles
- 2 medium carrots, julienned
- 1 mooli (daikon), julienned
- 80ml fish sauce
- 80ml lime juice
- 80g caster sugar
- 4 garlic cloves, roughly chopped
- 2 red chillies, finely chopped
Essential Store-Bought Ingredients
- Pâté: Chicken pâté is a crowd-pleaser, while duck pâté adds a richer flavour.
- Mayonnaise: A creamy addition that pairs with pâté for that authentic Bánh Mì flavour.
- Fresh chilli or chilli sauce: Essential for a spicy kick—have one or both on hand.
- Herbs & Vegetables: Fresh coriander, mint, and cucumber (chopped or whole sprigs) for brightness.
- Crispy fried onions & black peppercorns: Adds crunchy texture.
- Bread: French baguette is traditional, but sourdough works wonderfully for added texture and flavour.
Cheeses & Cured Meats
For balance, select 3-4 types of cheese and a mix of cured meats:
- Firm Cheeses: Cheddar, Gouda, Gruyère
- Soft Cheeses: Brie, Camembert, goat cheese
- Something Bold: A strong blue cheese, such as Gorgonzola or Stilton
- Cured Meats: An assortment of your favourites
Fruits, Crackers & Extras
For added colour and texture, include:
- Fruit Slices: Your favourites for a touch of sweetness
- Crackers: To add variety and a satisfying crunch
Roast Pork Belly
Instructions:
- Rub the seasoning over the pork, pressing most of the pepper on top.
- Preheat the oven to 180°C, and roast for 1 hour 15 minutes, until golden and tender.
- Let the pork cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
Carrot & Daikon Pickles
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, mix the fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, garlic, and chilli.
- Place the carrots and daikon in a large bowl, pour over the dressing, and toss well. Set aside for 10 minutes before serving.
Assembly & Serving Tips:
Invite family or guests to join in on assembling the board, it’s a fun and festive activity, especially for children. Arrange the pork, cheeses, pâté, herbs, pickles, and accompaniments across a large platter or board, creating clusters of colour and texture. With something for everyone, this cheese board effortlessly blends Vietnamese and Western flavours, making it a holiday favourite. Enjoy!