Tasty Vietnamese Bread and Pastry Recipes to Try
Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and unique textures, and when it comes to bread and pastries, it offers a delightful blend of traditional and modern recipes. Below, we explore some tasty Vietnamese bread and pastry recipes that you can try at home, each with its distinct character and mouth-watering appeal.
Bánh Mì (Vietnamese Sandwich)
Bánh mì is perhaps the most famous Vietnamese bread, a delicious sandwich that combines crunchy baguettes with various savory fillings. To make a classic bánh mì, you'll need:
- French baguette
- Marinated grilled pork, chicken, or tofu
- Pâté (optional)
- Pickled carrots and daikon
- Fresh cilantro
- Slices of cucumber
- Spicy chili sauce
To assemble, slice the baguette lengthwise, spread a layer of pâté, and layer your chosen protein, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. Finish it with a drizzle of chili sauce for a kick!
Bánh Bông Lan (Vietnamese Sponge Cake)
Bánh bông lan, or Vietnamese sponge cake, is light, fluffy, and a favorite dessert in many households. Here’s a simple recipe you'll love:
- 4 large eggs
- 120g sugar
- 120g all-purpose flour
- 60ml milk
- 60ml vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Whisk the eggs and sugar until pale and frothy. Gently fold in the flour, then add the milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Pour the mixture into a greased cake tin and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Allow to cool before slicing and dusting with powdered sugar.
Bánh Tằm (Vietnamese Sweet Potato Cakes)
Bánh tằm, or sweet potato cakes, are both delicious and visually appealing, being bright and colorful. To prepare, you will need:
- 200g sweet potato, steamed and mashed
- 200g glutinous rice flour
- 100ml coconut milk
- Pinch of salt
Mix all ingredients into a dough, create small balls, and steam until cooked through. Serve with a drizzle of coconut milk for extra flavor.
Bánh Pía (Vietnamese Durian Cake)
Bánh pía is a famous Vietnamese pastry filled with durian and mung beans. For a traditional touch, you’ll need:
- 250g glutinous rice flour
- 150g all-purpose flour
- 75g vegetable oil
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 200g sweetened mung bean paste
- 100g durian flesh (optional)
Combine the flours and mix with oil until fully incorporated. Add water to form a dough. Encapsulate the mung bean paste and durian within a small portion of dough and shape into a cake. Bake at 180°C (350°F) until golden brown.
Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese Sizzling Pancakes)
Bánh xèo is a savory Vietnamese pancake known for its crispy texture and flavorful fillings. You’ll require:
- 200g rice flour
- 400ml coconut milk
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- Eggs (optional)
- Fillings: shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and green onions
Mix rice flour, coconut milk, turmeric, and salt to form a batter. Heat a pan with oil, pour in the batter, and add your chosen fillings. Cook until crispy, fold, and serve with fresh herbs and dipping sauce.
These tasty Vietnamese bread and pastry recipes reflect the rich culinary heritage of Vietnam. Try these dishes at home and experience the wonder of Vietnamese flavors and textures!