Craving a savory Vietnamese treat that's both comforting and incredibly flavorful? Look no further than Banh Duc Man, a delightful steamed mixed cake brimming with savory goodness. This isn't your average cake; Banh Duc Man boasts a unique texture – simultaneously soft, spongy, and slightly chewy – thanks to the magic of tapioca starch and rice flour. Its subtle sweetness perfectly balances the savory notes of shrimp, minced pork, and fragrant herbs, creating a truly unforgettable taste experience. This recipe delivers an authentic Banh Duc Man experience, perfect for a weekend brunch or a light yet satisfying dinner.
Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, fluffy cake infused with the delicious umami of shrimp and pork, punctuated by the fresh, bright flavors of herbs. This simple recipe unlocks the secrets to creating this culinary gem at home. Ready to embark on a culinary journey to Vietnam? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to make your own irresistible Savory Mixed Cake (Banh Duc Man).
Tools Needed
- Steamer
- Frying pan
- Mixing bowl
- Cake molds
Ingredients
- Rice flour: 150g
- Tapioca starch: 50g
- Minced pork: 100g
- Dried shrimp: 30g
- Carrots: 50g
- Green onions: 30g
- Chinese sausage: 30g
- Coconut milk: 0.5 liter
- Salt: 0.5 teaspoon
- Garlic
- Cooking oil
- Sugar: 0.5 teaspoon
- Seasoning powder: 1 teaspoon
- Fish sauce: 1 teaspoon
- Pepper: 0.5 teaspoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Batter and Filling
- Mix 150g rice flour and 50g tapioca starch with 0.5 teaspoon of salt.
- Gradually add coconut milk and stir until the flour is dissolved. Let it rest.
- Heat cooking oil in a pan, sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add minced pork and stir-fry until firm. Add carrots, dried shrimp (pre-washed), and green onions. Stir well.
- Add sugar, seasoning powder, fish sauce, and pepper. Stir-fry until the filling is dry and the carrots are cooked.
Step 2. Combine and Fill the Molds
- Combine the rested batter with the filling, mix thoroughly. Add green onions at the end.
- Divide the batter into molds, spread evenly and thinly.
Step 3. Steam the Banh Duc Man
- Steam the cakes over medium heat for 20 minutes, remembering to release steam occasionally.
Step 4. Cool and Serve
- Let the cakes cool completely before removing and serving.
Read more: Vietnamese Sponge Wedding Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Use filtered rice flour if available, you can use it directly.
- Don't add green onions too early when stir-frying the filling, otherwise they will be too soft.
- Set aside a small portion of the filling to decorate the cake surface.
- When steaming, release some steam to prevent the cake from getting soggy.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the shrimp with other seafood?
Yes! You can substitute the shrimp with other seafood like scallops or shredded crab meat. Keep the quantity similar.
2. What if I don't have tapioca starch?
Tapioca starch is key to the texture. While substitutes exist (like cornstarch), the result won't be exactly the same. Try to find tapioca starch for the best Banh Duc Man.
3. How do I know when the Banh Duc Man is cooked?
The cake is cooked when it's firm to the touch and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The steaming time might need slight adjustment depending on your steamer.
Enjoy your homemade Banh Duc Man! This savory cake is a testament to the simple elegance of Vietnamese cuisine, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures. We hope this recipe becomes a new favorite in your kitchen.