The Bánh mì is said to be a Vietnamese variation on the French "salad sandwich," and one happy consequence of French colonialism.

A Bánh mì is made in a hollowed-out halved French baguette and filled with pork, chicken, head cheese or other meats; raw or pickled vegetables (such as carrots, daikon, cucumbers, onions and cilantro); and a dressing that may include mayonnaise and chili sauce, or a squeeze of lime.

The bright combination of flavors and textures make this delicious sandwich popular in the U.S., France and other countries with Vietnamese populations.