Crab Cake Banh Mi Sandwich

Step 1

Place crab meat in a small bowl and season lightly with salt and pepper. Add cornstarch, scallions and 2 tablespoons mayonnaise and mix thoroughly with a fork. Form mixture into 4 balls of equal size. Roll balls in bread crumbs, and flatten into cakes about 1/2-inch thick. Pat more crumbs onto the surfaces of each cake, transfer cakes to a plate and refrigerate until ready to cook.

Step 2

In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, ginger, fish sauce and brown sugar. Add carrots and cucumbers and toss to coast. Set aside for 5 minutes to pickle slightly.

Step 3

Set a small skillet over medium heat and add oil to a 1/4-inch depth. When oil is hot, carefully add crab cakes, using a spatula. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes on each side, until nicely browned and crisped. Remove and blot on paper towels.

Step 4

Split the sandwich rolls lengthwise and coat interior surfaces with remaining mayonnaise. Lay lettuce leaves on one side of each sandwich and top each with 2 hot crab cakes and the pickled vegetables. Sprinkle with jalapeño slices and cilantro, basil and mint sprigs. Serve sandwiches immediately.