Shrimp and Sugar Snap Pea Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese Sizzling Rice Crepes)

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Have you ever tried Vietnamese cuisine? If not, you're in for a treat!

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Shrimp and Sugar Snap Pea Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese Sizzling Rice Crepes)
Servings
0

Method

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together rice flour, cornstarch, salt, and turmeric.

  2. Add 1½ cups of the hottest tap water to the mixture, followed by coconut milk. Whisk until well combined.

  3. Let the batter sit uncovered for 30-45 minutes, or until it thickens to the consistency of half-and-half. It may be slightly gritty from the flour.

  4. If the batter is too thick, whisk in about 1 tablespoon of water to reach the desired consistency.

  5. If making the batter ahead of time, cover and chill for up to 2 days. Before using, bring to room temperature and whisk well.

  6. In a small bowl, whisk together chiles (adjust quantity based on desired heat), garlic, fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and warm water until the sugar is dissolved. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

  7. If making the sauce ahead of time, store tightly covered at room temperature for up to 8 hours.

  8. Place shrimp, cabbage, onion, and sugar snap peas in separate bowls near the stovetop. Also have oil, salt, and batter ready.

  9. Arrange lettuce and herbs on 1-2 plates. Divide the sauce into small bowls for dipping.

  10. Preheat the oven to warm and place a wire rack inside a rimmed baking sheet.

  11. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a medium nonstick or cast-iron

About this recipe

Have you ever tried Vietnamese cuisine? If not, you're in for a treat! Vietnamese food is known for its fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and unique cooking techniques. One dish that perfectly captures the essence of Vietnamese cuisine is Bánh Xèo, also known as Vietnamese Sizzling Rice Crepes. These crepes are filled with succulent shrimp and crisp sugar snap peas, making them a delicious and satisfying meal. Let's dive into the world of Bánh Xèo and discover how to make this mouthwatering dish!

What is Bánh Xèo?

Bánh Xèo is a traditional Vietnamese dish that translates to "sizzling pancake" in English. The name perfectly describes the cooking process of these crepes. The batter is poured into a hot skillet, creating a sizzling sound as it cooks. The result is a thin and crispy crepe that is packed with flavor.

The Perfect Combination of Ingredients

One of the things that make Bánh Xèo so delicious is the combination of ingredients. The crepe batter is made with rice flour and coconut milk, giving it a light and airy texture. It's then filled with a flavorful mixture of shrimp, sugar snap peas, bean sprouts, and fresh herbs.

Imagine taking a bite of the crispy crepe, and the flavors of the shrimp and sugar snap peas burst in your mouth. The crunch of the bean sprouts adds a delightful texture, while the fresh herbs bring a refreshing and aromatic element to the dish.

How to Make Bánh Xèo

Making Bánh Xèo may seem intimidating, but it's actually quite simple. The key is to have all your ingredients prepared and ready to go before you start cooking. Here's a step-by-step guide to making Bánh Xèo:

  1. Prepare the crepe batter by whisking together rice flour, coconut milk, turmeric powder, and water. Let the batter rest for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
  2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a little oil.
  3. Pour a ladleful of the crepe batter into the skillet, swirling it around to cover the entire surface.
  4. Arrange a few shrimp and sugar snap peas on one half of the crepe.
  5. Cover the skillet and let the crepe cook for a few minutes until the edges turn crispy and golden brown.
  6. Fold the crepe in half to enclose the filling and transfer it to a serving plate.
  7. Repeat the process with the remaining batter and filling.
  8. Serve the Bánh Xèo with a side of fresh herbs, lettuce leaves, and a dipping sauce made with fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and chili.

With these simple steps, you'll have a plate of delicious Bánh Xèo ready to enjoy in no time!

In Conclusion

Bánh Xèo is a delightful Vietnamese dish that combines the crispiness of a crepe with the freshness of shrimp and sugar snap peas. With its unique flavors and textures, it's no wonder why Bánh Xèo has become a favorite among food enthusiasts. So why not give it a try? Cook up a batch of Bánh Xèo and transport yourself to the vibrant streets of Vietnam!

Frequently asked questions

. Can I make Bánh Xèo without shrimp?

Yes, you can definitely make Bánh Xèo without shrimp. Simply omit the shrimp and replace it with your favorite vegetables or protein.

. Can I use regular flour instead of rice flour?

Rice flour is essential for achieving the light and crispy texture of Bánh Xèo. Using regular flour may result in a dense and heavy crepe.

. Are sugar snap peas the only vegetable I can use?

No, you can get creative with the vegetables you use in Bánh Xèo. Some popular options include bean sprouts, thinly sliced onions, and mushrooms.

. How long does the crepe batter need to rest?

It's best to let the crepe batter rest for at least 30 minutes. This allows the rice flour to fully hydrate and results in a smoother batter.

. Can I make the dipping sauce in advance?

Yes, you can make the dipping sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving.

. Can I freeze Bánh Xèo?

Bánh Xèo is best enjoyed fresh, as freezing may affect the texture of the crepes. However, you can freeze any leftover filling or batter for future use.

. Can I make Bánh Xèo vegetarian?

Absolutely! To make Bánh Xèo vegetarian, simply omit the shrimp and use a vegetable-based dipping sauce.

. What other herbs can I use for garnish?

Aside from the traditional herbs like mint and cilantro, you can also use Thai basil, sawtooth herb, or even microgreens to add a unique touch to your Bánh Xèo.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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