Are you craving a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful snack or appetizer? Look no further than Banh Tam Bi, a delightful Vietnamese savory pancake that's surprisingly simple to make at home. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or satisfying those sudden cravings for something delicious and unique. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this authentic taste of Vietnam!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1 cup water (more if needed)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, plus extra for cooking
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
- 1/4 cup shredded cooked pork (or substitute with shrimp or mushrooms for a vegetarian option)
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (adjust to taste)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar. Gradually add water, whisking continuously until a smooth batter forms. The consistency should be slightly thicker than pancake batter. Add more water if necessary to achieve the desired consistency.
Prepare the Filling:
- Stir in the vegetable oil, chopped scallions, and cooked pork (or your chosen substitute) into the batter. Mix well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
Cooking the Banh Tam Bi:
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Heat a lightly oiled non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot pan for each pancake.
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Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Flip carefully when the edges start to set and the top looks slightly dry.
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Once cooked, transfer the Banh Tam Bi to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Banh Tam Bi warm, with your favorite dipping sauce. A simple dipping sauce can be made by combining fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and chili garlic sauce to taste.
Tips for the Perfect Banh Tam Bi:
- Batter Consistency: The batter shouldn't be too thick or too thin. Aim for a consistency that allows you to easily pour it onto the pan without it being too runny.
- Cooking Temperature: Medium heat is crucial for even cooking. High heat will burn the pancakes, while low heat will result in soggy pancakes.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cook the pancakes in batches to ensure even browning and cooking.
- Get Creative with Fillings: Experiment with different fillings like shredded carrots, bean sprouts, or even finely chopped bell peppers.
Variations:
- Shrimp Banh Tam Bi: Replace the pork with cooked shrimp for a delicious seafood twist.
- Vegetarian Banh Tam Bi: Use mushrooms, tofu, or other vegetables instead of meat for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Spicy Banh Tam Bi: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to the batter for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Fat: 5-8g
This easy Banh Tam Bi recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying Vietnamese snack! Let us know in the comments how yours turned out!