Crafting eggless Vietnamese banh xeo: A step-by-step guide
Banh xeo, a vibrant and savory Vietnamese crepe from the south, is a testament to Vietnam's rich culinary heritage. It is celebrated for its crispy texture and flavorful vegetable filling, making it a visual feast and a delight for vegetarians. With its eggless batter, this dish caters to various dietary preferences, offering an authentic taste of Vietnamese cuisine. Let's get cooking.
Gather the following ingredients
For this culinary journey, gather: one cup of rice flour, two tablespoons of turmeric powder, one and a half cups of water, half a teaspoon of salt, one thinly sliced onion, two cups of bean sprouts, one cup of sliced mushrooms (any type), two thinly sliced bell peppers (any color), fresh herbs like cilantro or mint, and vegetable oil for frying.
Preparing the batter
Begin by whisking together rice flour, turmeric powder, water, and salt in a large bowl until smooth. The consistency should be similar to that of pancake batter; if it's too thick, add a little more water. This mixture forms the base for our Banh xeo crepes. Let it rest for about 30 minutes at room temperature to ensure all flavors meld together beautifully.
Cooking vegetables filling
While the batter rests, heat some vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions first and saute until they start to soften. Then incorporate bell peppers and mushrooms into the pan. Cook until all vegetables are tender yet still crisp to bite into. This mix will add both texture and flavor to your Banh xeo.
Frying the crepes
Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and brush it with vegetable oil lightly. Pour in enough batter to cover the bottom thinly when swirled around—cook for about two minutes or until edges start lifting from the pan, indicating it's time to add your filling on one half side along with bean sprouts and fresh herbs, then fold over like an omelet.
Serving suggestions
Serve your Banh xeo hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs for a burst of flavor. Accompany it with your preferred dipping sauce, like soy sauce or sweet chili sauce, to enhance the taste. Each mouthful is a blend of crispy textures and vibrant, fresh flavors, transforming Banh xeo from mere food into a memorable culinary experience that's both satisfying and unique.
