Banh Xeo, often affectionately called Vietnamese savory pancakes, is a delightful dish that brings together crispy textures and vibrant flavors. These pancakes are made from rice flour and filled with a variety of ingredients, making them perfect for any meal or occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal at home, Banh Xeo is sure to impress. Let’s dive into three diverse examples of this beloved Vietnamese dish!
This version of Banh Xeo is a classic that showcases the rich flavors of shrimp and pork, making it a crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
Start by mixing 1 cup of rice flour, 1 cup of coconut milk, 1 cup of water, and a pinch of turmeric in a bowl to form a smooth batter. Let it rest for about 30 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare the filling by sautéing 200g of thinly sliced pork belly with minced garlic and a dash of fish sauce until cooked. Add 150g of shrimp and cook until they turn pink.
In a hot, lightly oiled skillet, pour in a ladle of the batter, swirling it to cover the surface. Add a handful of bean sprouts and the cooked pork and shrimp mixture on one half of the pancake. Cook until the edges are crispy and golden, then fold it over. Serve with fresh lettuce and herbs, along with a dipping sauce made from fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar.
Notes:
This vegan take on Banh Xeo is packed with flavor and color, making it perfect for plant-based eaters.
Begin by preparing the batter just like the classic recipe: mix 1 cup of rice flour, 1 cup of coconut milk, 1 cup of water, and a pinch of turmeric. Let it rest for 30 minutes. For the filling, cube 200g of firm tofu and sauté it in a pan until golden. Add a mix of your favorite vegetables—think bell peppers, carrots, and mushrooms—and cook until tender. Season with soy sauce or tamari for flavor.
In a hot skillet, pour in the batter and let it spread out. Once it starts to cook, add the tofu and vegetable mixture on one half, allowing it to cook until crispy. Fold and serve with fresh herbs like mint and basil, along with a tangy dipping sauce made from soy sauce, lime juice, and chili.
Notes:
This unique twist on Banh Xeo combines savory and sweet elements, making it a refreshing option.
To start, prepare a batter similar to the previous examples by mixing 1 cup of rice flour, 1 cup of coconut milk, 1 cup of water, and a pinch of turmeric. Let it rest. For the filling, cook 200g of sliced chicken breast in a pan until browned, then toss in slices of fresh mango and a splash of fish sauce. Stir to combine and cook for another minute.
In a skillet, pour in the batter and let it spread out. Once the edges start to look crispy, add the chicken and mango mixture to one half of the pancake. Cook until golden, then fold over and serve with a sprinkle of chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro.
Notes:
With these diverse examples of Banh Xeo, you can easily explore the wonderful flavors of Vietnamese cuisine in your own kitchen. Enjoy the process of cooking, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your fillings!