Banh Khot: Vietnamese Mini Savory Coconut Pancakes with Shrimp
Introduction
Banh Khot is a popular Vietnamese dish that captures the essence of Vietnamese cuisine in a bite-sized treat. These mini savory coconut pancakes topped with shrimp offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. Originating from the coastal regions of Vietnam, Banh Khot represents the fusion of fresh seafood and traditional ingredients, creating a dish that is both comforting and exotic.
Ingredients
– 1 cup rice flour
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 pound small shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup mung beans, soaked and drained
– 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
– 1/4 cup cooking oil
– Lettuce leaves
– Fresh herbs (such as mint, cilantro, Thai basil)
– Dipping sauce (Nuoc Cham sauce)
Directions
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rice flour, coconut milk, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well until you have a smooth batter. Let it rest for about 30 minutes.
2. Heat a Banh Khot pan or aebleskiver pan over medium heat and lightly brush each mold with cooking oil.
3. Add a few shrimp, some mung beans, and a sprinkle of green onions into each mold.
4. Give the batter a quick stir and ladle it into each mold, filling them to the brim.
5. Cover the pan and let the Banh Khot cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the edges are crispy and golden brown.
6. Using a small spoon, carefully loosen the edges of the pancakes and remove them from the pan.
7. Serve the Banh Khot hot on a bed of lettuce leaves and fresh herbs, along with Nuoc Cham dipping sauce on the side.
8. Enjoy the crispy exterior, fluffy interior, and the burst of flavors from the shrimp and mung beans in every bite!
Try your hand at making these delightful Banh Khot pancakes to experience a taste of Vietnam’s culinary heritage in your own kitchen. Perfect for snack time or as part of a Vietnamese-inspired meal, Banh Khot is sure to impress with its unique blend of flavors and textures.
FAQ about Banh Khot
What is Banh Khot?
Banh Khot is a Vietnamese dish consisting of mini savory coconut pancakes cooked in a special mold until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. These pancakes are traditionally topped with shrimp and served with fresh herbs and dipping sauce.
How is Banh Khot made?
To make Banh Khot, a batter combining rice flour, coconut milk, turmeric powder, and water is poured into a heated mold greased with oil. Shrimp is then added on top before the pancakes are cooked until golden and crispy. The pancakes are then served with a variety of fresh vegetables and dipping sauce.
What distinguishes Banh Khot from other dishes?
Banh Khot stands out for its unique combination of flavors and textures. The crispy exterior of the pancake paired with the soft, coconut-infused interior, along with the succulent shrimp topping, creates a delightful culinary experience that sets it apart from other Vietnamese dishes.
Can Banh Khot be customized to suit dietary preferences?
Yes, Banh Khot can be customized to accommodate various dietary preferences. For instance, you can add different toppings like mushrooms, pork, or tofu for a vegetarian version. Additionally, adjustments can be made to the batter to cater to gluten-free diets by using alternative flours.
