Craving a taste of vibrant Vietnamese cuisine? Then prepare yourself for a culinary adventure with our recipe for Shrimp and Chive Pancakes (Bánh Xèo) served alongside crispy fried shrimp. This classic dish offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors: the delicate, crispy pancakes bursting with the fresh aroma of chives and succulent shrimp, perfectly complemented by the satisfying crunch of the individually fried shrimp. Imagine the sizzle of the batter hitting the hot pan, the fragrant steam rising, and the anticipation of that first delicious bite. These pancakes aren't just a meal; they're an experience.
This recipe guides you through creating both the savory pancakes and the perfectly fried shrimp, ensuring a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. Ready to embark on this delicious journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and create some unforgettable Shrimp and Chive Pancakes with Fried Shrimp!
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Bowl
- Spatula
- Grater
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- Shrimp: 200g
- Chives
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- MSG: 1/2 teaspoon
- Sugar: 1/2 teaspoon
- Cooking oil
- Pork fat
- Shallots
- Pancake flour: 500g
- Crispy fried flour: 500g
- Coconut milk: 1 liter
- Shredded coconut: 500g
- Fresh mint
- Mushrooms (optional)
- Rice paper
- Fish sauce: 100ml
- Sugar (for fish sauce): 100g
- MSG (for fish sauce): 1 small spoon
- Fresh coconut water (for fish sauce): 300ml
- Garlic
- Chili
- Lemon
- Carrots (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients & Marinate
- Marinate shrimp with salt, MSG, sugar, and cooking oil for 30 minutes.
Step 2. Cook Shrimp & Make Dipping Sauce
- Stir-fry shrimp with pork fat and shallots until cooked.
- Combine sugar, MSG, coconut water, and fish sauce; boil and cool.
Step 3. Make the Shrimp & Chive Pancakes
- Combine pancake flour, crispy fried flour, coconut milk, and fresh mint.
- Add chives to the batter.
- Heat pan with lard, pour batter to make pancakes.
- Cook pancakes over low heat to prevent burning.
Step 4. Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve pancakes with fried shrimp, optional vegetables, and dipping sauce.
Read more: Vietnamese Sponge Wedding Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- For crispier pancakes, use more lard and cook on higher heat.
- Adjust the amount of shredded coconut in the batter for desired fat content.
- Add optional fillings like mushrooms to the pancake batter.
- Prepare the fish sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- To make the dipping sauce, pound garlic and chili, squeeze lemon, and mix with the fish sauce.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 1800-2200
- Fat: 80-100g
- Carbs: 200-250g
- Protein: 50-60g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the shrimp?
Yes! You can use other seafood like scallops or prawns, or even shredded chicken or pork for a different flavor profile.
2. How do I make the pancakes crispy?
Use a good quality oil with a high smoke point, and ensure your pan is hot enough before adding the batter. Don't overcrowd the pan.
Enjoy the vibrant flavors and satisfying textures of your homemade Shrimp and Chive Pancakes with Fried Shrimp. This recipe is a testament to the delicious simplicity of Vietnamese cuisine, perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight treat. Now, gather your friends and family, and savor the delicious fruits of your labor!