Fried Noodle Pancakes: Vietnamese Banh Hoi Xao

When it comes to Vietnamese cuisine, there are countless delicious dishes to explore. One dish that stands out for its unique blend of flavors and textures is Banh Hoi Xao, also known as Fried Noodle Pancakes. This dish combines the crispy goodness of pan-fried noodles with the savory flavors of Vietnamese seasonings and herbs. If you’re looking to add a new and exciting dish to your culinary repertoire, Banh Hoi Xao is definitely worth a try!

So, what exactly are Fried Noodle Pancakes? Banh Hoi Xao is a Vietnamese dish made with rice vermicelli noodles that are pan-fried until crispy, then topped with a savory mixture of meats, vegetables, and herbs. The dish is typically served with a side of fresh lettuce and herbs, as well as a dipping sauce made from fish sauce, garlic, chili, and lime juice.

Ingredients:

• 200g rice vermicelli noodles
• 200g pork belly, sliced thinly
• 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (cilantro, mint, basil) for garnish

Instructions:

To make Banh Hoi Xao, start by soaking the rice vermicelli noodles in hot water for about 5 minutes, then drain and set aside. In a large skillet or wok, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced pork belly and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside. Add the sliced onion, garlic, carrot, bell pepper, and bean sprouts to the skillet. Stir-fry for a few minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the soaked rice vermicelli noodles to the empty side. Cook the noodles until they are crispy and golden brown on the bottom, then flip and cook the other side. Add the cooked pork belly and shrimp back to the skillet.

In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper. Pour the sauce over the noodles and stir to combine. Cook for another few minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.

Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve the Banh Hoi Xao hot with a side of fresh lettuce and herbs, as well as the dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy the crispy, savory goodness of this flavorful Vietnamese dish!

Conclusion:

Banh Hoi Xao is a delicious and satisfying dish that is sure to please your taste buds. With its crispy noodles, savory meats, and fresh herbs, this Vietnamese specialty is a fantastic addition to any meal. Give it a try and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills!