Easy Banh Xeo Recipe Vietnamese Crepe

Welcome to the world of Banh Xeo a traditional dish that’s as vibrant as it is delicious. This easy-to-make recipe promises an extra crispiness that will elevate your culinary skills and impress everyone at the dinner table.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just beginning your culinary journey, mastering this iconic Vietnamese street food can be both rewarding and fun. With its combination of rice flour, turmeric for color, and an array of fillings like shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, this dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also serves as a feast for the eyes.

In this article, we’ll walk you through an easy recipe that guarantees crunchiness every single time—perfectly paired with fresh herbs and dipping sauce for that authentic experience. 

Tips That Help You Succeed And Guarantee Crispy Results Every Time

Achieving crispy results in your cooking often hinges on the science of heat and moisture. One essential tip is to preheat your oven or pan adequately before adding food, as this not only ensures that the exterior cooks quickly but also reduces the chances of sogginess. 

For baked goods, consider using a baking stone; it retains heat effectively and creates an optimal crisp crust by distributing heat evenly. Instead of relying solely on oils, try incorporating clarified butter or duck fat for frying; these options have higher smoke points and can impart a richer flavor while maintaining crispiness. 

Background 

Banh Xeo, often referred to as the Vietnamese sizzling pancakes, has deep roots in Vietnam’s culinary heritage. Originating from the southern region of the country, this beloved dish showcases a harmonious blend of tastes and textures.

Traditionally cooked on high heat in a well-oiled skillet, the process creates that signature crunch that distinguishes Banh Xeo from other types of pancakes.

The Best Pan For Crispy Banh Xeo

The choice of pan can significantly elevate your culinary experience. A well-seasoned cast iron skillet or a heavy-duty non-stick frying pan is often regarded as the secret weapon in achieving that coveted golden-brown crust.

Cast iron’s excellent heat retention properties ensure even cooking, while its natural non-stick surface allows for easy flipping and serving without sacrificing texture.

Ingredients

Crepe Batter:

• 1 pack Banh Xeo Prepared Mix (I use Vinh Tuan Brand)
• 1 can Coconut Milk or Coconut Cream 14oz (1.25 cups)
• 4 cups room temp water or slightly warm
• 1 tbsp Corn Starch

Ingredients for the Vietnamese Crepe Filling (or use ground pork):

• 1.5 lbs Pork Belly or Pork Butt
• 1 lb Shrimp
• 1 bag Bean Sprouts
• ½ tsp Fish Sauce (Three Crabs Fish Sauce or Red Boat Fish Sauce)
• 1 tsp LKK Oyster sauce or Vegetarian Oyster sauce
• 1 /2 tsp Seasoning Sauce
• ¼ tsp Salt
• ¼ tsp Black Pepper
• ½ cup Split Peeled Mung Beans (Totally optional-I never use it)

Dipping Sauce:

• 6 part Warm Water
• 1 part Sugar
• 2 part Fish Sauce
• ¼ part Rice Vinegar
• ½ part Garlic (minced)
• 1 Thai Pepper, (if you’re me put 10)

For the Garnishes:

• 1 Head Lettuce
• 1 Cucumber (sliced)
• 1 Handful Cilantro 
• 1 Handful Mint
• 1 Handful Perilla

Instructions:

• To achieve a crispy texture, start with a blend of rice flour and cornstarch. 
• A mixture of 2 cups of rice flour to 1/2 cup of cornstarch ensures your crepes are light yet sturdy enough to cradle their savory fillings.
• Incorporate coconut milk into your batter for an authentic depth of flavor. 
• This not only enhances the richness but also adds a touch of sweetness that beautifully complements the salty savory contents you’ll pack inside.  
• Season it with a pinch of turmeric just enough to give it a vibrant yellow hue and subtle earthiness without overpowering the other ingredients. 
• Let your batter rest for about 30 minutes; this step allows it to thicken slightly and results in an even crispier exterior during cooking.

Vietnamese Crepe Filling:

Bean Sprouts:

Wash and drain, keep submerged in clean water until ready to use

Pork Butt 1.5lbs :

1. Slice into thin slices.

2. Marinate with ½ tsp Fish Sauce,1 tsp Oyster sauce or Vegetarian sauce,  ½ teaspoon Seasoning Sauce, ¼ tsp Salt and ¼ tsp Black Pepper.

3. Add oil to Pan, and sear on medium-high for 2-3 mins each side. Be careful not to crowd the pan.

4. Once all cooked set aside and cover with foil.

For The Shrimp:

• Peel and devein, boil in hot water until pink and set aside.

How To Make Banh Xeo

• The beauty of making Vietnamese crepes, or banh xeo, lies in the balance between art and science. 
• As you whisk rice flour with turmeric and coconut milk, it’s not just about creating a batter; it’s about infusing flavors that evoke the essence of Vietnam’s vibrant culinary landscape. 
• The yellow hue from turmeric is visually stunning and enriches the dish with earthy undertones.
• Pouring your batter into a hot skillet filled with oil generates an orchestra of sounds as it bubbles and crisps up, signaling it’s time to layer on fresh ingredients like shrimp, pork belly, bean sprouts, or mushrooms.
•  Each component adds its texture and flavor while ensuring every bite bursts with freshness.
• Wrapping these savory delights in lettuce leaves or herbs before dipping them into a tangy nuoc cham creates a multi-dimensional eating experience. 

How To Eat Banh Xeo Vietnamese Crepe Recipe

Banh Xeo is served with a vibrant platter of fresh herbs and leafy greens such as mint, basil, and lettuce. Use these greens as an edible wrapper; they add crunch and enhance the flavors with their refreshing notes.

Crispy crepe enveloped in fresh greens paired with zesty dipping sauce.

Tips To Achieve Crispy Banh Xeo

Start with a well-balanced batter by combining rice flour, turmeric, and coconut milk. The key lies in letting the batter rest for at least 30 minutes before use; this allows for better hydration of the flour and results in a lighter texture. You can even experiment with adding a touch of cornstarch for additional crispness.

Preheat your pan thoroughly and generously oil it using a mix of vegetable oil and pork fat can elevate flavor while ensuring optimal frying conditions. Pour in just enough batter to thinly coat the bottom of the pan; swirling it around creates an even layer that will crisp up nicely.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of making Easy Banh Xeo can elevate your culinary skills while introducing you to the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. By following the steps outlined in this recipe, you’ll achieve that perfect extra-crispy texture that makes these crepes truly irresistible.

Experimenting with various fillings allows for personalization, ensuring that each batch reflects your unique taste preferences. Remember to serve them fresh and hot for the best experience, ideally paired with a refreshing dipping sauce or fresh herbs.

FAQ’s