Thuy’s Bánh Mì Cheese Board

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.

  • Thuy’s Bánh Mì Cheese Board
  • Cheese board

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:

  1. Rub the seasoning over the pork, pressing most of the pepper on top.
  2. Preheat the oven to 180°C, and roast for 1 hour 15 minutes, until golden and tender.
  3. Let the pork cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.

 

Carrot & Daikon Pickles

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, mix the fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, garlic, and chilli.
  2. 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!

 

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