Banh Duc: Vietnamese Plain Rice Cake with Ground Pork Topping

Introduction

Banh Duc is a traditional Vietnamese dish that consists of a soft and smooth plain rice cake topped with flavorful ground pork. This dish is beloved for its simplicity yet delicious taste, making it a popular choice for breakfast or as a snack in Vietnam. The combination of the delicate rice cake with the savory and aromatic pork topping creates a delightful culinary experience that you’ll want to enjoy time and time again.

Ingredients

– 2 cups of rice flour
– 4 cups of water
– 1/2 pound of ground pork
– 2 shallots, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of fish sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
– Cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. In a pot, combine the rice flour and water. Stir well to ensure there are no lumps. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes translucent. This should take about 10-15 minutes. Once done, remove from heat.

2. Pour the cooked rice mixture into a heatproof serving dish or individual bowls. Use a spoon to smooth out the surface and let it cool and set for about 30 minutes.

3. In a separate pan, cook the ground pork over medium heat until it is no longer pink. Add the shallots, garlic, fish sauce, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the pork is fully cooked and the flavors have melded together.

4. Once the rice cake has set, spoon the cooked ground pork mixture over the top of the rice cake. Spread it out evenly.

5. Garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro for added freshness and flavor.

6. Serve the Banh Duc warm and enjoy the delightful combination of the soft rice cake with the savory pork topping.

This Vietnamese dish is a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a comforting and satisfying meal that you can easily prepare at home. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or as part of a meal, Banh Duc is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

FAQs about Banh Duc

What is Banh Duc?

Banh Duc is a traditional Vietnamese dish that consists of plain rice cakes topped with ground pork or other savory ingredients. It is a popular street food in Vietnam enjoyed for its simple yet delicious flavors.

How is Banh Duc prepared?

To make Banh Duc, rice flour is mixed with water to form a smooth batter, which is then steamed until it solidifies into a soft cake. The ground pork topping is typically seasoned with spices and herbs to enhance the overall taste.

Can Banh Duc be customized?

While the classic version of Banh Duc features ground pork topping, variations of this dish can include other ingredients like dried shrimp, mushrooms, or even a vegetarian option with tofu. The beauty of Banh Duc lies in its versatility.

Is Banh Duc gluten-free?

Since Banh Duc is made primarily from rice flour, it is naturally gluten-free, making it a suitable option for individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.

How is Banh Duc typically served?

Banh Duc is often served hot and fresh, either as a standalone dish or accompanied by dipping sauces like fish sauce with chili or soy sauce. It is commonly enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack throughout the