Banh Duc, a beloved Vietnamese savory steamed pancake, traditionally features shrimp or pork. But today, we're embracing a delicious vegetarian twist! This recipe delivers the same delightful chewy texture and satisfying savory flavor, but entirely plant-based. Imagine tender, translucent pancakes, subtly sweet from tapioca flour, bursting with a flavorful filling of mushrooms, carrots, and fragrant herbs. It's a delightful balance of textures and tastes, perfect for a light lunch, a vibrant appetizer, or a unique addition to your next dinner party. This recipe showcases the versatility of Banh Duc, proving that vegetarian cuisine can be just as exciting and rewarding.
Forget complicated techniques and lengthy preparations. This recipe simplifies the process, making it accessible even for novice cooks. We’ll guide you through each step, ensuring you achieve perfectly chewy, flavorful vegetarian Banh Duc every time. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- large bowl
- sieve
- pot
- steaming mold
- bamboo stick
- knife
Ingredients
- rice flour: 200g
- tapioca starch: 2 tablespoons
- coconut milk: 300ml
- water: 350ml
- salt: a pinch
- sugar: 1 teaspoon
- carrots
- vegetarian minced meat
- wood ear mushrooms
- vegetarian seasoning
- ground pepper
- cooking oil
- vegetarian oyster sauce
- vinegar: a little
- vegetarian fish sauce
- shallots (or celery)
- pandan leaves
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Banh Duc Batter
- In a large bowl, combine 200g rice flour and 2 tablespoons of tapioca starch.
- Gradually add 300ml coconut milk (or a mixture of coconut milk and water if you prefer a less fatty batter) and 350ml water, a pinch of salt, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Stir until smooth.
- Strain the batter through a sieve into another bowl to remove lumps and create a smoother texture. Discard any remaining lumps.
- Let the batter rest for 20 minutes.
Step 2. Prepare the Savory Filling and Steam the Banh Duc
- Saute chopped shallots (or celery) until fragrant. Add the soaked and drained vegetarian minced meat, along with carrots and wood ear mushrooms. Season with pepper, sugar, vegetarian seasoning, oyster sauce, and a little water. Stir-fry until the water evaporates and the filling is tender.
- Oil the steaming molds and place them in a pot of boiling water. Add pandan leaves for extra fragrance.
- Pour a portion of the batter into each prepared mold. Steam for 5 minutes per layer, adding more batter after each 5-minute interval until all batter is used.
- Insert a bamboo stick into the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is done.
Step 3. Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce
- Combine vinegar, vegetarian fish sauce, water, sugar, and salt in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer until the sugar dissolves. Let cool completely, then add shredded carrots, garlic (optional), and chili.
Step 4. Assemble and Serve
- Let the cakes cool completely before removing them from the molds.
- Cut the Banh Duc cakes into desired sizes. Arrange on a plate, top with the savory filling, sweet and sour sauce, and pickled vegetables.
Read more: Vietnamese Sponge Wedding Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- If you don't like fatty Banh Duc, use half coconut milk and half filtered water.
- Steaming the batter in layers prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Trimming the edges of the cake before cooling makes it easier to unmold.
- Add more fish sauce if needed for a stronger flavor.
- Use cookie cutters or molds to create fun shapes for the Banh Duc.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-500
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbs: 70-80g
- Protein: 5-7g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the tapioca flour?
While tapioca flour gives Banh Duc its signature chewy texture, you can experiment with a blend of rice flour and potato starch for a similar result. The ratio will depend on the specific flours used, so start with a small batch to test.
2. What if my Banh Duc doesn't set properly?
Ensure you've used the correct ratio of flour to water and steamed them long enough. Undercooked Banh Duc will be too soft and runny. If using a different type of flour, you may need to adjust the liquid amount.
This easy recipe proves that creating delicious and authentic-tasting vegetarian Banh Duc is achievable for everyone. Enjoy the satisfying chewiness and flavorful filling of your homemade creation, and don't be afraid to experiment with different vegetables and herbs to personalize your dish. Happy cooking!