Cakes

Banh Khot - Crispy Vietnamese Coconut Pancakes

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Banh Khot - Crispy Vietnamese Coconut Pancakes
Golden, crispy Banh Khot served with fresh herbs and dipping sauce.

Dive into the vibrant world of Vietnamese cuisine with this delectable recipe for Banh Khot. These crispy coconut pancakes are traditionally served in bustling markets across Vietnam, offering a burst of flavor and texture that captivates everyone who tries them. Lightly fried until golden brown, these bite-sized delights are filled with succulent shrimp or pork and topped with fresh herbs and a tangy dipping sauce.

“Banh Khot: A symphony of flavors wrapped in a crispy embrace.”

Ingredients

  • 1 cup rice flour
  • 3/4 cup coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 200 grams shrimp, peeled and deveined (or ground pork for a vegetarian option)
  • Fresh herbs: mint leaves, cilantro, and Vietnamese coriander
  • Dipping sauce ingredients:
  • 1/4 cup fish sauce
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • Chopped chili peppers (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together rice flour, coconut milk, water, sugar, salt, and vegetable oil until smooth. Let it rest for about 10 minutes to thicken slightly.

  2. Cook the Filling: If using shrimp, sauté them in a pan with a bit of oil until they turn pink. For pork, cook until browned and fully cooked through. Set aside to cool.

  3. Heat the Pan: Use a small non-stick skillet or Banh Khot molds over medium heat. Brush each mold lightly with oil if needed.

  4. Cook the Pancakes: Pour 2-3 tablespoons of batter into each mold, tilting it around so the bottom is evenly coated. Place a piece of shrimp (or pork) in the center and cook for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown on one side. Flip carefully and cook for another minute.

  5. Serve with Herbs: Transfer cooked Banh Khot to a plate lined with paper towels. Top each pancake with fresh herbs before serving.

  6. Prepare Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, mix fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and chili peppers (if using) until well combined. Adjust sweetness or tanginess to taste.

Indulge in these crispy Banh Khot as an appetizer or snack. The combination of the crunchy shell, savory filling, aromatic herbs, and zesty dipping sauce creates a harmonious blend that is sure to impress at any gathering. Enjoy this authentic Vietnamese treat with friends and family for a taste of Hanoi’s bustling street food scene right in your own kitchen!

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