Banh Xeo, also known as Vietnamese sizzling crepes or Vietnamese pancakes, is a popular dish that is loved by many. This delicious savory dish is a staple in Vietnamese cuisine and is often enjoyed as a street food or at home with family and friends. Made with a crispy rice flour batter and filled with a variety of savory fillings, Banh Xeo is a burst of flavors and textures that will surely satisfy your taste buds. In this article, we will share with you a traditional Vietnamese Banh Xeo recipe that you can easily recreate in your own kitchen. So, let's get started!
Main Ingredients: Rice Flour, Cornstarch, Turmeric Powder, Kosher Salt
Banh Xeo, also known as Vietnamese savory crepes, is a popular dish in Vietnam. It is made with rice flour batter, filled with a variety of ingredients, and served with fresh herbs and dipping sauce. The name Banh Xeo comes from the sizzling sound it makes when the batter is poured onto a hot pan. It is a must-try dish for anyone visiting Vietnam and can now be easily made at home with this simple and delicious recipe.
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Crispy Vietnamese Pancakes (Banh Xeo)
Main Ingredients: Rice Flour, Turmeric, Sea Salt, Coconut Milk, Water
If you are a fan of crispy and savory pancakes, then Banh Xeo is the perfect dish for you. This Vietnamese version of pancakes is made with rice flour, coconut milk, and turmeric, giving it a beautiful yellow color. The batter is then filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts before being pan-fried until crispy. It is a delicious and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed on its own or with a side of rice.
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Banh Xeo (Vietnamese Pancake)
Main Ingredients: Rice Flour, Cornstarch, Ground Turmeric, Salt
In Vietnam, Banh Xeo is often eaten as a snack or street food. However, it can also be served as a main dish, especially during family gatherings and celebrations. The combination of crispy pancake and fresh herbs creates a burst of flavors in every bite. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a perfect addition to any dinner party.
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Bánh xèo (Vietnamese Crepes)
Main Ingredients: Rice Flour, Water, Coconut Milk, Salt, Turmeric
Banh Xeo is a versatile dish that can be filled with a variety of ingredients to suit your taste. The traditional filling includes shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, but you can also add in other protein such as chicken, beef, or tofu. Vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions can also be added for extra flavor and texture. This dish can easily be customized to your liking, making it a crowd-pleaser for all.
The key to making the perfect Banh Xeo is to have a hot and well-oiled pan. This will ensure that the batter cooks evenly and produces a crispy exterior. The filling should also be cooked beforehand to prevent the pancake from becoming soggy. Once everything is ready, pour the batter onto the hot pan and spread it evenly. Add in the filling and fold the pancake in half before serving.
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Vietnamese Sizzling Crepes (Banh Xeo)
Main Ingredients: Rice Flour, Turmeric Powder, Spring Onion, Olive Oil
One of the best things about Banh Xeo is the sizzling sound it makes when served. The hot and crispy pancake is a delight to the senses and will surely make your mouth water. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish is what makes it so special and popular among locals and tourists alike. Make sure to serve it hot and with a side of fresh herbs and dipping sauce for the best experience.
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Bánh Xèo – Savoury Vietnamese Pancakes
Main Ingredients: Rice Flour, Turmeric, Salt, White Sugar, White Pepper
The use of turmeric in the batter not only gives Banh Xeo its vibrant color but also adds a subtle earthy flavor to the dish. The combination of turmeric, coconut milk, and rice flour creates a light and crispy pancake that is irresistible. It is also a great way to introduce turmeric into your diet, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
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Sizzling Vietnamese Crepe (Banh Xeo)
Main Ingredients: Rice Flour, Cornstarch, Salt, Turmeric Powder, Coconut
For a vegetarian option, you can replace the protein in this dish with tofu. Marinate the tofu in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger before pan-frying it until golden and crispy. You can also add in some vegetables of your choice for a more filling and nutritious pancake. This dish is not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet.
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Vietnamese Crispy Crepes – Banh Xeo
Main Ingredients: Rice Flour, Spring Onions, Salt, Water, Coconut Cream
In addition to being a popular street food, Banh Xeo is also a staple dish in many Vietnamese households. It is a great way to use up any leftover ingredients and can be made with whatever you have on hand. The batter can also be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to a day, making it a convenient and quick meal option.
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Vietnamese Stuffed Crepes ~ Banh Xeo
Main Ingredients: Rice Flour, Turmeric, Salt, Coconut Milk, Water, Oil
If you are feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with different fillings for Banh Xeo. Some popular alternatives include seafood, such as squid or fish, or even cheese for a fusion twist. However, the traditional filling of shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts remains a crowd favorite. You can also try different dipping sauces to find your perfect combination.
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Vegan Banh Xeo (Vietnamese Pancake)
Main Ingredients: Rice Flour, Tapioca Starch, Coconut Cream, Water, Salt
Vegans can also enjoy the delicious flavors of Banh Xeo by substituting the shrimp and pork with vegetables and tofu. The batter can also be made without eggs for a vegan-friendly option. This dish is not only suitable for vegans but also for those with dietary restrictions, making it a versatile and inclusive dish.
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Bánh Xèo - Vietnamese Sizzling Crepe
Main Ingredients: Rice Flour, Turmeric Powder, Water, Coconut Cream, Oil
The dipping sauce is an important component of Banh Xeo and adds a tangy and savory balance to the dish. The traditional dipping sauce is made with fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and chili, but you can also use soy sauce or hoisin sauce for a different flavor profile. You can also adjust the amount of chili according to your preference for spiciness.
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Bánh Xèo – Crispy & Savory Vietnamese Crêpes
Main Ingredients: Rice Flour, Wheat Flour, Turmeric, Water, Coconut
Banh Xeo is not only a delicious dish but also a fun and interactive one to make. You can involve your family and friends in the process of making their own pancakes, filling them with their desired ingredients, and enjoying them together. It is a great way to bond over food and create lasting memories.
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Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese Crêpes) with Tofu
Main Ingredients: Mung Beans, Tofu, Scallions, Cilantro, Mung Bean
If you are looking for a healthier alternative, you can also bake the pancakes in the oven instead of frying them. This will reduce the amount of oil used and result in a lighter and less greasy pancake. You can also add in some vegetables and herbs into the batter for added nutrients and flavor.
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Vegetarian Bánh Xèo -Crispy Vietnamese Crepes
Main Ingredients: Rice Flour, Tumeric, Coconut Milk, Lime, Soy Sauce
The traditional way of serving Banh Xeo is by wrapping it in lettuce leaves and herbs before dipping it into the sauce. This not only adds a fresh element to the dish but also makes it more enjoyable to eat. You can also add in other toppings such as chopped peanuts or fried onions for extra crunch and texture.
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Vietnamese Crispy Rice Crepes (Banh Xeo)
Main Ingredients: Rice Flour, Turmeric, Soda Water, Coconut Milk
Banh Xeo is a dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. It is commonly eaten for breakfast, as a snack, or as a light lunch or dinner. It is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit any meal and is perfect for any occasion. Its crispy and savory flavors will surely leave you wanting more.
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Vegan Banh Xeo (Vietnamese Sizzling Cakes) with Tofu
Main Ingredients: Mung Beans, Water, Coconut Milk, Rice Flour
For a gluten-free option, you can replace the rice flour with tapioca flour or a combination of both. This will result in a lighter and crispier pancake. You can also add in some herbs and spices like coriander and cumin for a more flavorful batter. This dish is not only delicious but also suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
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Banh Xeo (Vietnamese Crispy Savory Crepes)
Main Ingredients: Rice Flour, Corn Starch, Mung Beans, Coconut Milk
The beauty of Banh Xeo is that you can make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients and flavors. You can also experiment with different dipping sauces to find your perfect match. This dish is all about creativity and personalization, making it a fun and exciting dish to make and enjoy.
Main Ingredients: Mung Beans, Rice Flour, Nutritional Yeast, Turmeric
Although Banh Xeo is traditionally made with rice flour, you can also use other types of flour, such as buckwheat or chickpea, for a unique and nutritious twist. These flours are also gluten-free and high in protein, making them a healthier alternative. The possibilities are endless when it comes to this dish, so don't be afraid to get creative in the kitchen.
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Vietnamese crepes with prawns and pork Bánh Xèo
Main Ingredients: Rice Flour, Corn Starch, Salt, Ground Turmeric, Water
In Vietnam, Banh Xeo is often accompanied by a variety of side dishes, such as pickled vegetables, grilled meats, and rice paper. These side dishes not only add more flavor and texture to the meal but also make it a more filling and satisfying experience. You can also add in other Vietnamese dishes to create a complete and authentic meal.
The Origins of Banh Xeo
A Fusion of Flavors
The origins of Banh Xeo can be traced back to Central Vietnam, specifically the ancient city of Hue. It is said that the name "Banh Xeo" comes from the sizzling sound the batter makes when it is poured onto the hot pan. However, the dish has evolved over time and is now enjoyed all over Vietnam and even in other parts of the world. This is due to the fusion of flavors in Vietnamese cuisine, influenced by Chinese, French, and other Southeast Asian cuisines. The result is a unique and delicious dish that has become a favorite among many.
The Ingredients
A Simple yet Flavorful Recipe
The key to a delicious Banh Xeo is using fresh and quality ingredients. The main ingredient for the batter is rice flour, which gives the crepe its crispy texture. Mixed with turmeric powder and coconut milk, it creates a vibrant yellow color and adds a subtle sweetness to the dish. The fillings can vary, but the most common ones include pork, shrimp, bean sprouts, and mung beans. These ingredients are seasoned with spices like shallots, garlic, and fish sauce, giving the dish its savory and aromatic flavors.
The Cooking Process
A Hot and Sizzling Experience
To make Banh Xeo, you will need a flat pan or a skillet and a generous amount of oil. The pan needs to be hot enough to create that sizzling sound when the batter is poured. Once the batter is evenly spread on the pan, fillings are added on one side and the edges of the crepe are folded over to create a half-moon shape. The crepe is then left to cook until it becomes crispy and golden brown. This cooking process is not only delicious but also a fun and interactive experience for everyone involved.
The Final Touch
A Burst of Flavors and Textures
Once the Banh Xeo is cooked, it is served with fresh greens such as lettuce, herbs, and Vietnamese pickles. These add a refreshing crunch and balance out the rich and savory flavors of the crepe. Banh Xeo is usually eaten by wrapping it in a piece of lettuce and dipping it in a tangy and spicy fish sauce-based dipping sauce. The combination of the crispy crepe, savory fillings, and refreshing greens creates a burst of flavors and textures in every bite.
In conclusion, Banh Xeo is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a snack or a full meal. Its simple yet flavorful ingredients and unique cooking process make it a must-try dish in Vietnamese cuisine. With this traditional Vietnamese Banh Xeo recipe, you can now easily recreate this mouth-watering dish in the comfort of your own home. So why not gather your friends and family and have a Banh Xeo cooking party? It will surely be a fun and delicious experience for everyone.
