JOURNAL: Vietnamese Sandwiches (Bánh mì)

I would hate to imply that colonialism could be a good thing, but when I bite into a Vietnamese sandwich (Bánh mì), I have to catch myself. People were oppressed, enslaved and killed, but when potent Southeast Asian flavors are intertwined with pâté and mayo on a crusty, toasted baguette, it’s enough to make me forget the atrocities. Whether it’s barbecued chicken, meatballs or shredded pork on top of those pickled veggies, spicy peppers and tangy sauces, my moral fiber begins to weaken as soon as I start chewing.