How to Make Vietnamese Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese Pancakes) for Dinner
Bánh Xèo, or Vietnamese pancakes, are a delicious and savory dish that can make for a wonderful dinner option. This traditional Vietnamese dish is made from a rice flour batter, filled with a variety of ingredients, and fried until crispy. With its vibrant flavors and satisfying crunch, making bánh xèo at home is easier than you might think. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make Vietnamese bánh xèo for dinner.
Ingredients You Will Need
To make authentic bánh xèo, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup rice flour
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- ½ tsp salt
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Filling options (choose your favorites):
- Cooked shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- Pork (thinly sliced or ground)
- Mung beans (soaked and cooked)
- Bean sprouts
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh herbs (such as mint and cilantro)
Instructions for Making Bánh Xèo
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine the rice flour, turmeric powder, and salt. Slowly mix in the coconut milk and water until a smooth batter forms. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter. Allow the batter to rest for about 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Fillings
While the batter rests, prepare your fillings. If you're using shrimp and pork, cook them in a pan until fully cooked. If using mung beans, soak them for a few hours before boiling until soft. Chop any fresh herbs and vegetables you’d like to include.
Step 3: Fry the Bánh Xèo
Heat a non-stick skillet or a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of vegetable oil to coat the pan.
Once hot, pour a ladle of batter into the pan, tilting the pan so that the batter spreads evenly and begins to sizzle. This should create a thin layer of batter.
Add your desired fillings to one side of the pancake. Let the bánh xèo cook for 3-4 minutes or until the edges are crispy and golden brown.
Step 4: Fold and Serve
Using a spatula, carefully fold the pancake in half, covering the fillings. Cook for another minute to ensure everything is heated through. Remove from the pan and continue this process with the remaining batter and fillings.
To serve, bánh xèo can be presented with a side of fresh lettuce leaves and herbs for wrapping. You can also make a simple dipping sauce with fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and crushed chili for that authentic touch.
Enjoy Your Meal
Vietnamese bánh xèo is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a fun, interactive dish that can bring family and friends together at the dinner table. Enjoy the process of making these crispy pancakes and savor their delightful flavors!