Bánh Bèo Tươi

Background of Bánh Bèo Tươi

Bánh Bèo, a delicately steamed rice cake, is a beloved Vietnamese dish renowned for its soft, spongy texture and rich cultural heritage. Originating from Central Vietnam, particularly the city of Hue, this dish is a staple at both everyday meals and special occasions. Its name, which translates to "water fern cake," aptly describes its lightness and unique shape resembling a water fern. For centuries, Bánh Bèo has been enjoyed by people of all ages, and it continues to be a comfort food for many Vietnamese families.

Ingredients for Making Bánh Bèo Tươi

• Rice flour - 200g
• Tapioca flour - 50g
• Water - 600ml
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Shrimp - 200g, peeled and deveined
• Scallions - 2, finely chopped
• Vegetable oil - 2 tablespoons
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Fish sauce - 2 tablespoons
• Sugar - 1 tablespoon
• Water - additional 2 tablespoons for fish sauce mix
• Chili - 1, optional, finely chopped

For serving:

• Fried shallots
• Crackers, such as rice crackers

Preparation Steps for Bánh Bèo Tươi

Step 1: Prepare the Bánh Bèo Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine rice flour and tapioca flour with water and salt. Stir the mixture well until it is smooth and free of lumps. Allow the batter to rest for about 30 minutes to achieve the desired texture.

Step 2: Cooking the Shrimp Topping

1. While the batter is resting, chop the shrimp into small pieces. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Then add the chopped shrimp, stirring frequently until they turn pink and are cooked through.
3. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a bowl and season with 1 tablespoon of fish sauce and some sugar to taste. Set aside.

Step 3: Frying the Scallions

1. In the same pan, add more vegetable oil if needed. Add the chopped scallions and fry gently. Remove from heat and set aside to be used as a garnish.

Step 4: Steaming Bánh Bèo

1. Prepare a steamer with enough water and bring it to a boil. During this time, lightly grease small, flat dishes or bamboo steamers with oil to prevent sticking.
2. Carefully pour the batter into each dish, filling about 1/3 of the way full, as they will expand once cooked.
3. Place the dishes into the steamer and cover. Steam over medium-high heat for about 6-8 minutes or until the Bánh Bèo becomes translucent and the center is set.
4. Refer to the cooking timer for precise timing.

Step 5: Preparing the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of fish sauce with some sugar, 2 tablespoons of water, and finely chopped chili. Stir well until the sugar dissolves. Adjust according to taste.

Assembling and Serving Bánh Bèo Tươi

1. Once the Bánh Bèo are cooked, carefully remove them from the steamer. Allow them to cool slightly before removing them from the dishes.
2. Top each Bánh Bèo with a portion of the savory shrimp mixture, a sprinkle of fried scallions, and a few fried shallots.
3. Serve warm with a bowl of prepared fish sauce on the side and accompanied by crackers for a delightful crunch.
4. Encourage family or guests to drizzle the fish sauce on top of the cakes before enjoying each bite.

Enjoying Bánh Bèo Tươi

Bánh Bèo is typically enjoyed as a savory snack or a light meal with family and friends. It is a dish that invites communal sharing, often leading to interesting conversations and bonding. As you savor each bite, relish the harmonious blend of textures and flavors — the delicate softness of the rice cake, the umami-rich shrimp topping, and the aromatic scallions. Traditionally paired with tea or simply on its own, this delightful dish embodies the essence of Vietnamese culinary creativity and tradition.