Crispy, golden-brown, and utterly addictive – fried dough sticks, or bánh rán, are a beloved Vietnamese street food treat. These delightful little puffs of fried dough offer a perfect balance of chewy interior and satisfyingly crunchy exterior, making them an irresistible snack any time of day. Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, freshly fried dough stick, its light sweetness complemented by a subtle savory undertone. Whether enjoyed plain or dipped in a sweet chili sauce, these crispy delights are a culinary adventure waiting to happen.
This simple yet rewarding recipe will guide you through every step of creating these delectable fried dough sticks from scratch. From preparing the dough to achieving that perfect golden-brown crisp, we’ll ensure you achieve delicious results. Ready to embark on this culinary journey and create your own batch of irresistible Vietnamese fried dough sticks? Let's get started!
Tools Needed
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
- Rolling pin
- Knife
- Frying pan
- Water jug
- Chopsticks
- Plastic wrap
- Towel
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 300g
- Baking powder: 5g
- Baking soda: 2g
- Salt: 2-3g
- Sugar: 15g
- Egg: 55-60g
- Water: 130ml
- Cooking oil: 15ml
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Rest the Dough
- Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, sugar, and egg in a bowl. Gradually add water and whisk until sticky.
- Add cooking oil and knead the dough until sticky. Let it rest, covered, for 15 minutes.
- Knead the dough again until smooth and elastic (5-7 minutes). Shape into a rectangle, roll it up tightly, and wrap it in plastic wrap.
- Let the dough rest at room temperature for at least 4-5 hours (or overnight in the refrigerator).
Step 2. Shape and Prepare for Frying
- Lightly flour a surface. Roll out the rested dough to a thickness of 0.5cm. Cut into strips (2.5-3cm wide).
- Dip a chopstick in water and lightly brush it between two dough strips to join them. Press gently to adhere.
Step 3. Fry the Dough Sticks
- Heat oil in a flat-bottomed pan over medium-low heat until it shimmers. Gently add the dough sticks, stretching them slightly as you place them in the hot oil.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Fry until golden brown on both sides, turning occasionally. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Read more: Vietnamese Sponge Wedding Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Don't use warm water to mix the flour; it will make the dough runny.
- If adding too much sugar, the dough will burn easily when frying.
- The oil should be hot but not too hot when frying; otherwise, the dough will stick or burn.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of rice flour?
While rice flour gives the dough its characteristic texture, you can substitute some (but not all) with all-purpose flour. The dough might be slightly less chewy.
2. How do I prevent the dough sticks from becoming too oily?
Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying (around 350°F/175°C). Don't overcrowd the pan, and fry in batches. Drain on paper towels after frying.
3. What can I serve these dough sticks with?
They're delicious on their own! You can also serve them with sweet chili sauce, condensed milk, or even a sprinkle of sugar.
With a little practice, you'll be making perfect crispy fried dough sticks every time. These delightful treats are a fantastic addition to any meal or snack occasion, guaranteed to impress your family and friends. So go ahead, give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious results!