There’s a delightful magic that emerges when you cook something extraordinary from scratch, transforming ordinary ingredients into a flavorful masterpiece. One rainy afternoon, while reminiscing about my travels to Vietnam, I craved a dish that embodied warmth and comfort—the vibrant and crispy Vietnamese crêpes, known as Banh Xeo. The golden hue of turmeric-soaked batter, the juicy shrimp and succulent pork belly, all encased in a playful crunch, made my mouth water just thinking about it.
As I gathered the ingredients, the soft aroma of coconut milk filled my kitchen, reminding me that homemade food is a labor of love, a soulful escape from the mundane fast-food routine. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself, these crêpes are not only packed with flavor but are also surprisingly easy to whip up. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure and bring the flavors of Vietnam right to your kitchen!
Why try homemade Vietnamese Crêpes today?
Unique flavors: The combination of rich coconut milk and turmeric creates a delightful twist.
Crispy texture: Enjoy perfectly thin and crispy edges that contrast beautifully with a savory filling.
Customizable: Whether you’re a meat lover or a vegetarian, feel free to tailor the filling to your liking.
Quick cooking: With just a few simple steps, you can have a gourmet meal ready in no time.
Crowd-pleaser: Impress your guests with this vibrant dish that looks as good as it tastes!
So why not embrace your inner chef and make these delicious crêpes while exploring other exciting dishes from our collection?
Vietnamese Crêpes Ingredients
• To create perfect Vietnamese crêpes, gather these essential ingredients for a harmonious balance of flavors.
For the Batter
- Split mung beans – soaked overnight for a creamy texture.
- Coconut milk – brings richness and a hint of sweetness.
- Rice flour – key for that delightful crispiness.
- Cornstarch – adds extra crunch to your crepes.
- All-purpose flour – helps bind the batter together.
- Water – adjust the consistency of the batter as needed.
- Green onion – finely chopped for a fresh, oniony flavor.
- Turmeric powder – offers a vibrant golden color and an earthy taste.
- Sugar – balances the savory elements with a touch of sweetness.
- Salt – enhances all the wonderful flavors in the batter.
For the Filling
- Pork belly – source of rich, savory goodness that pairs perfectly with the batter.
- Medium shrimp – adds a sweet taste and succulent texture.
- Yellow onion – caramelizes beautifully, adding depth to the filling.
- Bean sprouts – provide a crisp bite that complements the delicate crêpes.
Embrace the joys of creating these homemade Vietnamese crêpes; your taste buds will thank you!
How to Make Vietnamese Crêpes
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Soak the split mung beans overnight. This allows them to soften and develop a creamy texture that will enrich your crêpes.
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Mix all batter ingredients in a bowl. Combine soaked mung beans, coconut milk, rice flour, cornstarch, all-purpose flour, water, chopped green onion, turmeric powder, sugar, and salt until smooth and well-blended.
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Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour in some batter, swirling it to form a thin layer about ¼ inch thick. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges are crispy and the center is set.
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Add the filling on one half of the crêpe. Layer slices of pork belly, shrimp, yellow onion, and a handful of bean sprouts for that mouthwatering contrast!
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Cook until the edges are golden brown, about 3-5 minutes more, ensuring the filling is thoroughly cooked.
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Serve immediately, folding the crêpe in half. Enjoy with fresh lettuce, mint, Vietnamese perilla, and a side of Vietnamese dipping sauce for an authentic experience.
Optional: Garnish with crushed peanuts for added texture and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Vietnamese Crêpes?
There’s nothing quite like a delightful blend of flavors and textures to complement your homemade dish.
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Refreshing Lettuce Wraps: Serve fresh lettuce leaves alongside to wrap the crêpes, adding a crisp, fresh bite with every mouthful.
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Herb Medley: A mix of mint and Vietnamese perilla boosts freshness, enhancing the dish’s aromatic quality and creating a burst of flavor.
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Crispy Spring Rolls: These add another layer of crunch and flavor, with their savory fillings perfectly aligning with the taste of Vietnamese crêpes.
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Spicy Dipping Sauce: A tangy and spicy Vietnamese dipping sauce completes the experience, bringing heat and zest that elevates the entire meal.
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Coconut Sticky Rice: The sweetness of coconut sticky rice contrasts beautifully with the savory crêpes and adds a comforting, rich element to your plate.
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Thai Iced Tea: A cold glass of Thai iced tea, with its creamy sweetness, balances the savory flavors and provides a delightful refreshment alongside your crêpes.
Bring all these elements together for a feast that’s rich in flavors, textures, and delightful experiences—perfect for family gatherings or intimate dinners!
Make Ahead Options
These Vietnamese Crêpes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all ingredients (including soaked mung beans, coconut milk, rice flour, cornstarch, all-purpose flour, water, green onion, turmeric powder, sugar, and salt) and storing in the refrigerator. For the filling, chop the pork belly, shrimp, yellow onion, and even bean sprouts the day before and keep them in airtight containers for up to 3 days. To finish your crêpes, simply reheat the batter slightly and then pour it into a hot pan, adding the prepped filling before cooking as directed. This allows you to enjoy restaurant-quality Vietnamese Crêpes with minimal effort, making your busy weeknights a breeze!
Expert Tips for Perfect Vietnamese Crêpes
• Quality Ingredients: Always use fresh shrimp and pork belly for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients truly shine in these Vietnamese crêpes.
• Batter Consistency: Aim for a smooth, pourable batter. If too thick, add a splash of water; if too thin, a bit of flour can help.
• Heat Control: Ensure your pan is at medium heat; too hot can burn the edges while leaving the center undercooked.
• Layering Technique: Place filling on just one half of the crêpe to allow for easy folding and prevent overflow during cooking.
• Serving Fresh: Enjoy your Vietnamese crêpes immediately after cooking for that perfect crunch and warmth—best not to make them ahead of time!
Vietnamese Crêpes Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these crêpes with your favorite flavors and ingredients.
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Vegetarian: Replace the pork belly and shrimp with tofu and extra vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms for a delightful meatless option.
Using marinated tofu adds a fantastic flavor that pairs beautifully with the crunchy bean sprouts. -
Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and use chickpea flour for added nutrition and flavor.
This combination keeps the crêpes crispy while making them accessible for gluten-sensitive eaters. -
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the batter for a spicy, vibrant twist.
The heat from the peppers will dance on your palate, making each bite a lively experience. -
Savory Herbs: Incorporate chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the batter for an aromatic layer of flavor.
Fresh herbs brighten up the dish and provide a unique twist that showcases the freshness of your crêpes. -
Asian Flair: Try adding sesame oil to the batter for a nutty depth, or consider drizzle of sweet soy sauce as a dipping sauce.
This will elevate your Vietnamese crêpes to a whole new level of umami goodness! -
Fruity Filling: For a unique dessert version, use ripe mango or banana slices with coconut cream as a sweet filling.
The combination of sweet and savory makes for a delightful surprise that’s perfect for dessert lovers. -
Seafood Twist: Instead of shrimp, consider using scallops or crab meat to offer a different seafood experience in your crêpes.
These substitutions will add a touch of luxury and a unique flavor profile that will impress your guests. -
Nutty Boost: Add a handful of crushed peanuts or sesame seeds as a topping for extra crunch and richness.
This simple tip will not only enhance the texture but also introduce an extra layer of flavor to every bite.
How to Store and Freeze Vietnamese Crêpes
Room Temperature: Serve your Vietnamese crêpes immediately for the best taste and texture. If left out, they can stay fresh for up to 1 hour.
Fridge: Store leftover crêpes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for a quick regain of that crispy edge.
Freezer: Wrap each cooled crêpe individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat frozen crêpes, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through and crispy again.
Vietnamese Crêpes Recipe FAQs
What type of mung beans should I use for the batter?
Absolutely! For the best texture, use split mung beans, which you should soak overnight. This step enhances their creaminess, making them an essential ingredient in your Vietnamese crêpes.
How should I store leftover Vietnamese crêpes?
You can store leftover crêpes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I often recommend reheating them in a skillet for a few minutes, which helps regain that delightful crispy edge—so worth it!
Can I freeze Vietnamese crêpes for later?
Yes, you can! Once the crêpes have cooled completely, individually wrap each one in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will be good for up to 2 months. To enjoy them later, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm up in a skillet for a crispy treat.
What should I do if my batter is too thick or too thin?
No worries at all! If your batter is too thick, just add a little water, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, incorporate a tablespoon of flour to thicken it up. Mixing and testing will help you get that perfect balance!
Is it safe for my pet to share some of these ingredients?
While some elements like shrimp and vegetables may be fine for dogs, certain spices and ingredients aren’t suitable for pets. It’s best to keep the crêpes for human enjoyment and treat your furry friends to pet-friendly snacks instead. Always consult with your veterinarian if unsure!
Can I use different fillings for the Vietnamese crêpes?
Very much so! The beauty of Vietnamese crêpes is their versatility. Try swapping out pork belly for chicken, tofu, or just veggies for a scrumptious vegetarian version. You can mix and match to satisfy everyone’s taste buds—cooking should always be enjoyable!
Savor Homemade Vietnamese Crêpes for a Flavorful Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak the split mung beans overnight.
- Mix all batter ingredients in a bowl until smooth and well-blended.
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat; pour batter to form a thin layer.
- Add the filling on one half of the crêpe with pork belly, shrimp, onion, and bean sprouts.
- Cook until the edges are golden brown, about 3-5 minutes.
- Serve immediately, folding the crêpe in half.