Ban Tieu, or Vietnamese fried bread, is a beloved street food delight, characterized by its incredibly light and fluffy texture. Imagine biting into a golden-brown, airy puff of bread, slightly sweet and subtly savory – that's the magic of Ban Tieu. This seemingly simple fried bread holds a special place in Vietnamese cuisine, often enjoyed for breakfast or as a delicious snack. Its crispy exterior gives way to a soft, pillowy interior, making it an irresistible treat for all ages. The subtle sweetness perfectly complements both sweet and savory accompaniments.
This recipe will guide you through creating this irresistible treat in your own kitchen, transforming simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy processes; this recipe emphasizes ease and success, ensuring even novice bakers can achieve perfectly fluffy Ban Tieu. Ready to embark on this flavorful journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions.
Tools Needed
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
- Dough mat or basin
- Food screen or cover
- Frying pan
Ingredients
- Unsweetened fresh milk: 180ml
- Boiling water: 50ml
- Sugar: 100g (50g + 50g)
- Dry yeast: 8g
- All-purpose flour: 400g
- Baking powder: 4-5g
- Salt: 4g
- Lion powder (optional): 1 tbsp
- Fish powder (optional): 1 tbsp
- Cooking oil: 2 tbsp + extra for greasing
- White sesame seeds: 50g
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Batter and Dough
- Combine warm milk, boiling water, 50g sugar, and dry yeast. Stir until sugar dissolves. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the yeast is active (it will float).
- In a large bowl, combine flour, 50g sugar, baking powder, salt, lion powder (optional), and fish powder (optional).
- Add the yeast mixture to the flour mixture. Use a whisk to mix until combined, then use your hands to knead for 5-6 minutes until smooth and slightly sticky. Add 2 tablespoons of cooking oil during kneading.
- Lightly grease a bowl with oil, place the dough inside, cover and let it ferment for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 2. Shape and Prepare for Frying
- Lightly flour a surface. Turn the dough out and knead it briefly again. Divide the dough into equal portions (about 20 for small cakes, 15 for larger ones).
- Flip each dough portion inside out. This makes it easier to coat in sesame seeds.
- Roll each dough ball into a flat oval shape, pressing lightly. Coat evenly with sesame seeds. Cover and let rest for 10-15 minutes.
Step 3. Fry the Ban Tieu
- Heat oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Gently place the dough into the hot oil, immediately flipping and turning continuously for a few seconds. Fry until golden brown on both sides and puffy (about 1-1.5 minutes).
Step 4. Cool and Serve
- Remove from the pan and let cool on a wire rack.
Read more: Vietnamese Sponge Wedding Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Don't skip the step of flipping the dough inside out before adding sesame seeds – it helps the seeds stick better.
- Maintain medium-low heat while frying to prevent burning and ensure the cakes puff up evenly. Flip the cakes frequently.
- Use enough flour to prevent sticking when rolling and frying.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Why is my Ban Tieu dough sticky?
Ensure you've added the correct amount of flour. Too little flour results in a sticky dough. Add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough is smooth but not sticky.
2. How can I make my Ban Tieu extra fluffy?
Let the dough rest for at least 30 minutes after mixing. This allows the gluten to relax, resulting in a lighter and fluffier texture. Gently knead the dough only until just combined; overkneading can make it tough.
3. My Ban Tieu is too oily. What went wrong?
You might be using too much oil when frying. Use just enough to submerge the bread halfway. Also, ensure the oil is at the right temperature (medium-high heat); too high will result in burning and oil absorption.
With this recipe, creating perfectly fluffy and soft Ban Tieu is now within everyone's reach. Enjoy the delicious reward of your homemade Vietnamese fried bread, whether savored as a breakfast treat or a delightful snack. Share your Ban Tieu creations with family and friends – they're sure to be impressed!