Bánh xèo

Bánh xèo, a cherished Vietnamese specialty, is a crispy, stuffed rice pancake that captivates both locals and visitors. The term "bánh xèo" translates to "sizzling cake" a nod to the delightful sound the batter makes when it hits a hot skillet.

This savory delicacy is crafted from a simple batter of rice flour, water, and turmeric powder, which imparts its distinctive yellow color. The pancakes are typically filled with a tantalizing combination of pork, shrimp, green onions, mung beans, and bean sprouts.

To savor bánh xèo, it is usually accompanied by an assortment of fresh herbs such as lettuce, mint, Thai basil, and fish mint, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory flavors of the pancake.

Bánh xèo also holds a place in Cambodian cuisine, where it is known as "banh chao" (បាញ់ឆែវ). The Cambodian rendition closely mirrors the southern Vietnamese style, highlighting the shared culinary heritage of the region.

Whether you find yourself in Vietnam or Cambodia, bánh xèo is an essential dish that offers a delectable taste of local culture.