Banh Can: Vietnamese Mini Pancakes with Shrimp and Pork Belly

Introduction

Banh Can is a delightful Vietnamese street food that combines the savory flavors of shrimp and pork belly with crispy mini pancakes. These bite-sized treats are cooked in a special pan that gives them their signature crispy edges and soft centers. Whether enjoyed as a snack or a meal, Banh Can is sure to tantalize your taste buds with its rich flavors and textures.

Ingredients

• 1 cup rice flour
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 lb pork belly, sliced thinly
• 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for cooking

Directions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine rice flour, coconut milk, water, turmeric powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form a smooth batter.
2. Heat a Banh Can pan over medium heat and lightly oil each mold.
3. Place a shrimp and a slice of pork belly in each mold of the pan.
4. Pour the batter into each mold, filling it up to the brim.
5. Cover the pan and let the Banh Can cook for a few minutes until the edges become crispy.
6. Sprinkle chopped green onions on top of each pancake.
7. Using a skewer or small spatula, carefully remove the Banh Can from the pan and serve hot.

Enjoy these delicious Banh Can pancakes with a side of sweet and sour dipping sauce or spicy fish sauce. The combination of tender shrimp, succulent pork belly, and crispy pancake will make this dish a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.

FAQs About Banh Can: Vietnamese Mini Pancakes

What are Banh Can?

Banh Can are Vietnamese mini pancakes made with a savory rice flour batter. They are cooked in small round molds and typically topped with shrimp, pork belly, and green onions.

How are Banh Can served?

Banh Can are usually served hot with a side of fresh herbs, lettuce, and a dipping sauce like nuoc cham. They are commonly enjoyed as a snack or appetizer in Vietnam.

What is the texture of Banh Can?

Banh Can have a unique texture that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The toppings of shrimp and pork belly add a savory and rich flavor to the pancakes.

Are Banh Can gluten-free?

Yes, Banh Can are typically gluten-free as they are made from rice flour. However, it’s important to check the ingredients of the batter and toppings to ensure they are gluten-free.

Can Banh Can be customized?

Absolutely! While shrimp and pork belly are traditional toppings, Banh Can can be customized with other ingredients like mushrooms, tofu, or different types of seafood to suit personal preferences.