Vietnamese Banh Cuon – A Delicate Vietnamese Delight

What is Vietnamese Banh Cuon?

Banh Cuon is a beloved traditional Vietnamese dish known for its soft, steamed rice rolls filled with savory minced pork and wood ear mushrooms. These delicate rice rolls are typically served with crispy fried shallots, fresh herbs, and a flavorful fish sauce-based dipping sauce. Light yet satisfying, Banh Cuon is a staple breakfast dish in Vietnam and is enjoyed by food lovers worldwide.

The History of Banh Cuon

Originating from Northern Vietnam, Banh Cuon has been a popular dish for generations. The thin, delicate rice sheets require expert skill to make, and each region in Vietnam has its own variation. Some areas add grilled pork, shrimp, or even egg toppings, making it a versatile dish with many delicious versions.

Ingredients Needed to Make Banh Cuon

To make authentic Vietnamese Banh Cuon, you will need:

For the batter:

1 cup Banh Cuon rice flour
2 cups water
1/4 cup tapioca starch (for extra softness)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the filling:

200g minced pork
1/2 cup wood ear mushrooms (finely chopped)
1/2 onion (finely chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 teaspoon fish sauce
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For serving:

Crispy fried shallots
Fresh herbs (cilantro, mint, lettuce)
Nuoc Cham (Vietnamese dipping sauce)

How to Make Vietnamese Banh Cuon

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

In a bowl, mix Banh Cuon rice flour, tapioca starch, water, salt, and vegetable oil until smooth.
Let the batter rest for at least 30 minutes to achieve a perfect texture.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

Heat a pan over medium heat and add a little oil.
Sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant.
Add the minced pork and cook until no longer pink.
Stir in the wood ear mushrooms, fish sauce, and black pepper.
Cook for another 2-3 minutes, then set aside.

Step 3: Make the Rice Rolls

Heat a non-stick pan over low to medium heat.
Lightly grease the pan and pour in a thin layer of batter, swirling to coat evenly.
Cover with a lid and let it steam for 30-40 seconds until the rice sheet becomes translucent.
Carefully transfer the rice sheet to a flat surface and place a spoonful of filling in the center.
Gently roll up the rice sheet and place it on a plate.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with crispy fried shallots and fresh herbs.
Serve with Nuoc Cham dipping sauce.
Enjoy the delicate, savory flavors of authentic Vietnamese Banh Cuon!

Where to Buy Authentic Banh Cuon Rice Flour

For the best Banh Cuon experience, using high-quality Banh Cuon rice flour is essential. If you are overseas and want to enjoy this traditional Vietnamese dish at home, Vietnam Treasure can help! We specialize in sourcing and shipping authentic Vietnamese Banh Cuon flour and other traditional ingredients worldwide.