Banh Xeo is a delicious and savory Vietnamese pancake that’s become increasingly popular in recent years. But what to serve with Banh Xeo? and a flavorful dish to take your meal to the next level? Whether you’re a Banh Xeo enthusiast or a newcomer to this delightful cuisine, you’re in for a treat.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the best side dishes to pair with Banh Xeo, from classic Vietnamese favorites to unexpected and creative options. Get ready to elevate your Banh Xeo experience and discover new flavors that will tantalize your taste buds!
Banh Xeo Demystified
What is Banh Xeo?
Banh Xeo, also known as Vietnamese crepes or sizzling cakes, are crispy, savory pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and scallions. The pancake batter is made from rice flour, turmeric powder, coconut milk, and water, which gives it its distinctive yellow color. Banh Xeo is typically served with fresh herbs, lettuce leaves, and nuoc cham dipping sauce.
History of Banh Xeo
Banh Xeo originated in central Vietnam during the French colonial period and was influenced by Chinese-style crepes and French-style omelets. It quickly spread throughout the country and became a favorite street food. Today, Banh Xeo is enjoyed throughout Vietnam and has gained popularity in other countries such as Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos.
Variations of Banh Xeo
While the traditional Banh Xeo filling consists of shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and scallions, there are many regional variations that use different ingredients such as mushrooms, squid, mung beans, and coconut. Some variations even omit the meat altogether, making it a vegetarian or vegan-friendly option.
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Pairing Banh Xeo with Other Dishes
If you’re searching for ideas to create a complete meal with Banh Xeo, look no further than these suggestions:
- Fresh Herbs: Banh Xeo is traditionally served with a plate of fresh herbs such as mint leaves, cilantro, and lettuce. These herbs add a refreshing touch to the dish and can be used to wrap the pancake, providing an extra layer of texture.
- Dipping Sauce: A tangy dipping sauce is the perfect accompaniment to Banh Xeo. The most common sauce for this dish is Nuoc Cham, made with fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, garlic, chili, and water. You can also try adding hoisin sauce or soy sauce for a different flavor.
- Vegetables: To balance out the richness of the pancake, consider serving it with a side of stir-fried or grilled vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers. This adds a healthy element to the meal and complements the flavors of the Banh Xeo.
- Rice Paper: If you want to make your meal more interactive, serve Banh Xeo with rice paper sheets. Guests can create their own spring rolls by wrapping the pancake and herbs in rice paper and dipping it in the sauce.
- Pickled Vegetables: Pickled vegetables such as carrots, daikon radish, and cucumber bring a zesty crunch to the meal. They can be purchased pre-made at Asian grocery stores or made from scratch at home.
- Grilled Meat: For a heartier meal, serve Banh Xeo with some grilled meat such as lemongrass chicken or beef skewers. This provides additional protein and adds a smoky flavor to the meal.
Drinks to Serve with Banh Xeo
Alcoholic Beverages
When it comes to alcoholic beverages, beer is a popular choice to serve with Banh Xeo. The crisp and refreshing taste of beer complements the savory flavors of the pancake. For those who prefer wine, a light and fruity white wine such as Riesling or Pinot Grigio can also be a good choice.
Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Non-alcoholic beverages such as iced tea, lemonade, or soda can be served with Banh Xeo. Vietnamese iced coffee, made with strong coffee and sweetened condensed milk, is also a popular choice and provides a sweet and creamy contrast to the savory flavors of the pancake.
Tips for Serving Banh Xeo
Presentation
When serving Banh Xeo, presentation is key. The pancake should be crisp and golden brown, and the filling should be evenly distributed. Fresh herbs and lettuce leaves should be arranged neatly on a plate, and the dipping sauce should be served in a small bowl alongside the pancakes.
Serving Temperature
Banh Xeo is best served hot and crispy right off the stove. To keep it warm, place it on a wire rack in a preheated oven at 200°F. However, it’s important not to let it sit for too long, as it can become soggy.
Leftover Storage
If you have leftover Banh Xeo, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it in a non-stick pan over medium heat until crispy.
What to serve with Banh Xeo?
In conclusion, Banh Xeo is more than just a dish – it’s an experience that brings people together. Whether you’re enjoying it with family or friends, or savoring it on your own, Banh Xeo has the power to transport you to the vibrant streets of Vietnam.
What to serve with Banh Xeo? By pairing it with the right side dishes, you can elevate your meal and explore new flavors that will leave you craving more. So the next time you indulge in Banh Xeo, remember that it’s not just about the food – it’s about the memories and connections you create along the way.
