Banh Xeo: Vietnamese Crispy Pancakes with Shrimp and Bean Sprouts

Introduction

Banh Xeo is a delightful Vietnamese dish that features crispy pancakes filled with succulent shrimp, fresh bean sprouts, and a variety of aromatic herbs. This savory pancake is a popular street food in Vietnam enjoyed for its crunchy texture and bold flavors. Let’s explore how to create this mouthwatering dish in your own kitchen!

Ingredients

For the Pancake Batter:

• 1 cup rice flour
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 green onions (sliced)
• 1/2 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• Mint leaves, lettuce leaves, and cilantro for garnish
• Vegetable oil for frying

Directions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine rice flour, coconut milk, water, turmeric powder, and salt. Whisk until smooth and let the batter rest for at least 30 minutes.

2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of vegetable oil.

3. Add a few shrimp, some green onions, and bean sprouts to the skillet.

4. Ladle the batter over the filling, swirling to cover the entire pan. Cook until the edges are crispy.

5. Fold the pancake in half and serve hot with fresh herbs for garnish.

6. Continue this process with the remaining batter and filling until all pancakes are cooked.

Enjoy these Banh Xeo pancakes hot and crispy, dipped in a flavorful dipping sauce made with fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and chili. This dish is perfect for sharing with friends and family, bringing the taste of Vietnam to your dining table.

FAQ About Banh Xeo

What is Banh Xeo?

Banh Xeo is a popular Vietnamese dish known as Vietnamese crispy pancakes filled with shrimp, bean sprouts, and sometimes pork, then folded into a half-moon shape.

How is Banh Xeo cooked?

Banh Xeo batter, made from rice flour, turmeric powder, and coconut milk, is spread thinly on a hot pan with oil. Shrimp, bean sprouts, and other desired fillings are added, the pancake is then folded in half and served with fresh herbs and dipping sauce.

What are the traditional accompaniments to Banh Xeo?

Banh Xeo is traditionally served with a variety of fresh herbs like mint, basil, and lettuce, along with lettuce leaves for wrapping and a dipping sauce typically made from fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and chili.

Can Banh Xeo be customized?

Yes, Banh Xeo can be customized to suit individual preferences. While the traditional filling includes shrimp and bean sprouts, variations can include pork, mung beans, mushrooms, or even a vegetarian option with tofu.

Is Banh Xeo gluten-free?

Banh Xeo is typically gluten-free as it is made from rice flour. However, it’s important to check the ingredients of the dipping