Vietnamese Banh Xeo – A Crispy Savory Delight

What is Vietnamese Banh Xeo?

Banh Xeo, often referred to as Vietnamese crispy pancake, is a beloved traditional dish that originates from Central and Southern Vietnam. Made from a rice flour batter infused with turmeric and coconut milk, these golden, crispy pancakes are stuffed with shrimp, pork, and fresh bean sprouts. Served with fragrant herbs and a tangy fish sauce-based dipping sauce, Banh Xeo offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors.

The History of Banh Xeo

The name "Banh Xeo" translates to "sizzling cake," inspired by the sound the batter makes when it hits the hot pan. While its exact origins are unclear, Banh Xeo has been a staple in Vietnamese cuisine for generations, with regional variations that make each version unique.

Ingredients Needed to Make Banh Xeo

To make authentic Vietnamese Banh Xeo, you will need:

For the batter:

1 cup rice flour
1/2 cup coconut milk
1 cup water
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 green onion, finely chopped

For the filling:

200g shrimp (peeled and deveined)
200g pork belly (thinly sliced)
1 cup bean sprouts
1 small onion (thinly sliced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
Cooking oil for frying

For serving:

Fresh herbs (lettuce, mint, perilla leaves)
Rice paper (optional, for wrapping)
Nuoc Cham (Vietnamese dipping sauce)

How to Make Vietnamese Banh Xeo

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the rice flour, coconut milk, water, turmeric powder, salt, and chopped green onion until smooth.
Let the batter rest for 30 minutes to enhance its texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Heat a pan over medium heat and add a little cooking oil.
Sauté the garlic and onions until fragrant.
Add the pork belly slices and cook until they start to brown.
Toss in the shrimp and cook until they turn pink.
Remove the filling from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Banh Xeo

Heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat and add a thin layer of oil.
Pour a ladleful of batter into the pan, swirling quickly to create a thin layer.
Add a portion of the cooked filling and a handful of bean sprouts on one side.
Cover with a lid and cook for 2-3 minutes until the edges turn crispy.
Fold the pancake in half and transfer it to a plate.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Serve Banh Xeo with fresh herbs, rice paper (optional), and nuoc cham dipping sauce.
Wrap a piece of Banh Xeo in lettuce or rice paper, dip into the sauce, and enjoy!

Where to Buy Authentic Banh Xeo Flour

For the best Banh Xeo experience, using high-quality Banh Xeo 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 Xeo flour and other traditional ingredients worldwide.