How to Make Vietnamese Shrimp Cakes
Vietnamese shrimp cakes, known as "bánh tôm," are a delicious and crispy treat that captures the essence of Vietnamese cuisine. These flavorful cakes are made primarily from fresh shrimp and a blend of aromatic spices, serving as a perfect appetizer or snack. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to make these delectable shrimp cakes at home.
Ingredients
To prepare Vietnamese shrimp cakes, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup of rice flour
- ½ cup of tapioca flour
- 1 cup of water
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- ½ teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Lettuce and herbs for serving (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by chopping the fresh shrimp into small pieces. You can also pulse them briefly in a food processor for a finer texture. Mix the chopped shrimp with minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and green onions in a bowl. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Make the Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine the rice flour, tapioca flour, cornstarch, and water. Whisk until you have a smooth batter. The texture should be thick but spreadable. If necessary, adjust the consistency by adding a little more water or flour.
Step 3: Combine Shrimp and Batter
Fold the shrimp mixture into the batter, ensuring that the shrimp is evenly distributed. This will create a cohesive mixture that will hold together while frying.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or frying pan, heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Test the oil's readiness by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil; if it sizzles and bubbles, the oil is hot enough.
Step 5: Fry the Shrimp Cakes
Using a ladle or tablespoon, pour the batter into the hot oil, forming small cakes. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Once cooked, remove the shrimp cakes from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with fresh lettuce leaves and herbs, alongside your favorite dipping sauce, such as nuoc cham (a sweet and tangy fish sauce-based dip).
Tips for Perfect Shrimp Cakes
- Make sure to use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Feel free to add other ingredients, such as shredded vegetables or herbs, to customize your shrimp cakes.
- For a healthier alternative, you can bake the shrimp cakes at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Enjoy your homemade Vietnamese shrimp cakes as a snack or part of a larger meal. Their crispy exterior and savory interior are sure to impress family and friends alike!