Banh Xeo Recipe Guide: A Taste of Vietnamese Cuisine
Explore the world of Vietnamese street food with this authentic Banh Xeo recipe. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, Banh Xeo—or “sizzling pancakes/crepes”—is a delightful culinary experience. The term “Banh Xeo” describes the sizzling sound the rice batter makes as it hits the hot skillet. This traditional Vietnamese snack, popular primarily in southern Vietnam, features a shrimp-stuffed crepe wrapped in fresh lettuce, served with a tangy nuoc cham dipping sauce. Allow your taste buds to enjoy the fusion of flavors and textures.
What You’ll Need for This Banh Xeo Recipe
Yield
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
Here’s a list of what you’ll need to cook these crispy Vietnamese crepes:
- 1 cup rice flour
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 cup coconut milk
- ½ cup water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided, or as needed
- 2 tablespoons minced shallot
- 2 cloves garlic, minced, or more to taste
- ¾ pound fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce, or more to taste
- Salt to taste
- 1 pound mung bean sprouts
- 4 lettuce leaves, or as needed
Step-by-Step Banh Xeo Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Batter
Begin by combining the rice flour, sugar, salt, and turmeric in a mixing bowl. Gradually add the coconut milk and water, whisking until the mixture is smooth. The consistency should be similar to thin pancake batter.
2. Cook the Garlic and Shallots
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced shallots and garlic, sautéing until fragrant—approximately 1 to 2 minutes.
3. Add the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet with the sautéed shallots and garlic. Stir in the fish sauce and cook until the shrimp turns pink, about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. Cook the Crepes
Wipe the skillet clean and increase the heat to high. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Stir the batter well and then ladle about 1/4 cup of the batter into the hot pan, swirling to cover the bottom in a thin layer. Cook the batter for about 1 minute until it turns golden and crispy on the edges.
5. Fill and Finish the Crepes
Place some cooked shrimp and a handful of mung bean sprouts on one half of the crepe. Fold the other half over the filling, press gently, and continue to cook for about 1 minute, ensuring the crepe is crispy. Transfer to a plate and repeat with the remaining batter and fillings.
Why Is Your Banh Xeo Not Crispy?
Banh Xeo requires a hot skillet and a thin batter for a perfect crunch. To achieve a crispier crepe, ensure your batter is not too thick. Additionally, cook the crepe on high initially, then lower the heat to cook the inside without burning the exterior.
The Meaning of Banh Xeo in Vietnamese Culture
The name “Banh Xeo” directly translates to “sizzling cake” in Vietnamese, highlighting its unique cooking process. Banh Xeo is a staple in Vietnamese street food culture, commonly enjoyed at gatherings and as a tasty snack.
Is Banh Xeo Healthy?
Banh Xeo can be considered a healthy dish when consumed as part of a balanced diet. It’s rich in protein from shrimp and mung bean sprouts, offering a vibrant array of vegetables. However, be mindful of the oil content used during cooking. For a healthier alternative, consider using a non-stick skillet and reducing the oil amount, or opt for olive oil for a healthier fat source.
Enhance Your Banh Xeo Recipe
To improve your Banh Xeo further, experiment with adding additional herbs and spices like cilantro or basil. Likewise, dipping your crepes in nuoc cham sauce will amplify the flavors. Be creative and add personal touches, ensuring your Banh Xeo is uniquely yours.
Conclusion: Savor the Banh Xeo Experience
In conclusion, Banh Xeo is a crispy, savory delight that brings the taste of Vietnam right to your kitchen. It’s easy to prepare and makes for a delicious meal option at any time of the day. Enjoy the rich textures and flavors as you savor each bite, rolled in fresh lettuce leaves—a harmonious blend of Vietnamese street food at its finest. Try this recipe today, and let the vibrant culinary journey begin!
