Crispy Banh Xeo: Vietnamese Savory Pancakes

If you’re a fan of Asian cuisine and looking to try something new, look no further than Crispy Banh Xeo, Vietnamese savory pancakes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds! These golden, crispy pancakes are a popular street food in Vietnam and are enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

Known for their unique texture and flavor, Banh Xeo is made from a batter of rice flour, turmeric powder, and coconut milk, then filled with a delicious combination of savory ingredients such as pork, shrimp, bean sprouts, and mung beans. The pancakes are cooked until they are crispy and golden brown, then folded in half and served with a side of fresh herbs and a dipping sauce.

One of the best things about Crispy Banh Xeo is that they are highly customizable. You can choose your favorite fillings and adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer a more traditional filling of pork and shrimp or want to try a vegetarian version with tofu and vegetables, the possibilities are endless!

How to Make Crispy Banh Xeo

While you can easily find Crispy Banh Xeo at street food stalls in Vietnam, making them at home is a fun and rewarding experience. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

• 1 cup rice flour
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 lb pork belly, thinly sliced
• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 1/2 cup mung beans, soaked overnight
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Fresh herbs (such as cilantro, mint, and Thai basil) for serving
• Dipping sauce (such as Nuoc Cham) for serving

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rice flour, coconut milk, water, turmeric powder, and salt. Whisk until smooth and let the batter rest for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a hot skillet, heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil and add a few slices of pork belly. Cook until the pork is browned and crispy, then remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add a few shrimp to the skillet and cook until they are pink and opaque. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. Pour a ladleful of batter into the hot skillet, swirling to coat the bottom evenly. Add a handful of bean sprouts, mung beans, pork, and shrimp to one half of the pancake.
5. Cover the skillet and cook the pancake for a few minutes until the edges are crispy and golden brown. Fold the pancake in half and transfer to a plate.
6. Serve the Crispy Banh Xeo hot with a side of fresh herbs and dipping sauce. Enjoy!

Where to Find Crispy Banh Xeo

If you’re not up for making your own Crispy Banh Xeo at home, you can easily find them at Vietnamese restaurants and street food stalls around the world. Many Vietnamese eateries offer this delicious dish on their menu, so be sure to give it a try next time you dine out.

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or someone who’s looking to expand their culinary horizons, Crispy Banh Xeo is a must-try dish that will transport you to the streets of Vietnam with its authentic flavors and textures. So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and indulge in a plate of these savory Vietnamese pancakes today!