Banh Trang Nuong, often referred to as Vietnamese grilled rice paper pizza, is a delightful street food that has captured the hearts and palates of many around the globe. This crispy snack is a canvas of flavors, topped with various ingredients, including savory meats, eggs, and fresh herbs. The irresistible crunch and rich flavor profile make it a must-try dish that can easily be replicated at home. In this guide, we will explore how to make perfect Banh Trang Nuong, complete with tips and suggestions for customization.
Introduction
Banh Trang Nuong is more than just a snack; it’s an experience that blends different textures and flavors. Originating from the streets of Vietnam, this dish features grilled rice paper as its base, richly adorned with toppings that offer both flavor and nutrition. It’s an ideal dish for gatherings, parties, or as a satisfying snack. Whether you prefer seafood, meats, or vegetarian options, tailoring this dish to your palate is part of the fun!
Ingredient List
For the Base:
- Rice Paper (Banh Trang): 4 large sheets (preferably the thicker kind for better handling)
For the Toppings:
- Eggs: 2 large
- Ground Pork or Beef: 200 grams (substitute with chicken or shrimp as desired)
- Green Onions: 3 stalks, finely chopped
- Bean Sprouts: 100 grams
- Carrots: 1 medium-sized, shredded
- Mushrooms: 100 grams, finely sliced (shiitake or button mushrooms are ideal)
- Pork Floss: 50 grams (optional for added flavor)
- Melange of herbs (fresh cilantro, mint, and Thai basil): a handful, roughly chopped
For the Sauce:
- Fish Sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Chili Sauce: 1 to 2 teaspoons (adjust to your heat preference)
- Lime Juice: 1 tablespoon (freshly squeezed)
Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings, ideal for sharing with friends or family.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Toppings
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Cook the Meat:
- In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the ground pork or beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once cooked, drain excess fat and season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
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Prepare Vegetables:
- While the meat cooks, prepare the green onions, carrots, mushrooms, and bean sprouts. Keep them fresh and crisp as they will add texture to your dish.
- Whisk the Eggs:
- In a small bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside for later.
Step 2: Making the Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix together the fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and chili sauce. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Add lime juice and mix well. This will be your dipping sauce for added flavor!
Step 3: Grilling the Rice Paper
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Heat Your Griddle or Pan:
- Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Ensure it’s hot enough to make the rice paper crisp.
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Prepare the Rice Paper:
- Place a dry rice paper sheet on the hot skillet for about 15 seconds, letting them soften. Flip it once and then spread a thin layer of eggs across the surface.
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Layer the Toppings:
- Quickly layer cooked ground meat, vegetables (carrots, mushrooms, bean sprouts), and sprinkle green onions and pork floss (if using) over the egg layer. This layering is integral as it ensures all ingredients cook evenly.
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Cooking:
- Allow the rice paper to cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes golden brown and crispy on the bottom. You can cover it with a lid to help cook the toppings through.
- Flip and Finish:
- Carefully flip the Banh Trang Nuong and allow it to cook on the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring it is firm and crispy.
Step 4: Serving
- Remove from the skillet, and cut it into wedges.
- Serve immediately with the dipping sauce on the side, along with an ample supply of fresh herbs for garnish.
Tips and Suggestions
- Customization: Feel free to customize the toppings based on your preferences. Add different proteins like shredded chicken, or opt for a vegetarian version with additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
- Crispiness: For extra crunch, increase the cooking time slightly, but be cautious not to burn the rice paper.
- Heat Level: Adjust the amount of chili sauce in the dipping sauce according to your spice tolerance.
- Serving Options: These can be served as appetizers or main dishes paired with a light salad.
Conclusion
Banh Trang Nuong encapsulates the essence of Vietnamese street food – vibrant flavors, delightful textures, and a myriad of choices to suit every palate. Making this dish at home not only allows you to savor authentic Vietnamese taste but also to engage in a fun cooking activity. Embrace the creativity of crafting your perfect Banh Trang Nuong and share this delightful dish with family and friends. Whether enjoyed during a casual afternoon at home or as an impressive dish at a social gathering, this recipe is bound to become a favorite. Happy cooking!
