Banh Bap Nuoc Cot Dua, or Steamed Corn Cake with Coconut Milk, is a delightful and subtly sweet Vietnamese treat that's both comforting and incredibly flavorful. This traditional dish offers a unique textural experience, combining the tender crumb of the corn cake with the rich creaminess of coconut milk. The subtle sweetness is perfectly balanced, making it a satisfying snack or a light dessert. Its simple yet elegant presentation belies the depth of flavor achieved through a few key ingredients, resulting in a dish that's both easy to make and impressive to serve.
Imagine the fragrant aroma of freshly steamed corn cake, infused with the delicate sweetness of coconut milk. Ready to create this culinary masterpiece yourself? Follow our easy step-by-step guide below to learn how to make Banh Bap Nuoc Cot Dua and delight your taste buds with this authentic Vietnamese delicacy.
Tools Needed
- Steamer
- Blender or mortar and pestle
- Large pan
- Knife
Ingredients
- Glutinous rice: 300g
- Corn: 600g (about 4-5 cobs)
- Grated coconut: 200g
- Sugar: 200g
- Salt: 2 teaspoons
- Coconut milk: 400ml
- Corn husks
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Wash the glutinous rice and soak it in water for 3-4 hours. Drain the rice.
- Peel the corn kernels, keeping the husks. You can use a knife or separate the kernels and then roughly blend them. Aim for 600g of corn.
- Grind the drained glutinous rice roughly using a blender, mortar and pestle, or meat grinder.
- Wash and drain the corn husks.
Step 2. Mix and Cook the Batter
- Combine the ground glutinous rice and corn in a pan. Add grated coconut, sugar, salt, and coconut milk. Mix well.
- Stir-fry the mixture over medium heat until it thickens (about 5-7 minutes). The mixture should be sticky and the water absorbed.
Step 3. Assemble and Wrap the Cakes
- Fill each corn husk with the corn and rice mixture. Wrap and secure the husks.
Step 4. Steam and Cool
- Steam the wrapped cakes for 25 minutes over medium heat. Let them cool completely before serving.
Read more: Vietnamese Sponge Wedding Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Use a charred coconut for a more delicious flavor.
- Steaming the corn in its husk adds fragrance.
- The cake is best served cold, as it becomes firmer and chewier.
- Adjust the amount of sugar and salt according to your preference.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain off any excess liquid before using it in the batter. The texture might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
2. How do I know when the Banh Bap is cooked?
Insert a toothpick or skewer into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, it's done. You can also gently press the top; it should feel firm and springy.
With its simple ingredients and straightforward method, Banh Bap Nuoc Cot Dua is a delightful recipe perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. This Vietnamese treat offers a unique blend of textures and flavors that are sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy the sweet, comforting taste of this traditional dish!