Bánh Khoái – The Tasty Pancake of Quang Binh

When visiting Quang Binh, besides its famous landscapes, don’t miss the chance to try Banh Khoai, a delicious local pancake that has captured the hearts of many food lovers. This simple yet flavorful dish shows off the rich and unique culinary culture of the region.

Banh Khoai is similar to Banh Xeo, a popular Vietnamese pancake, but it has its own unique twist that reflects the distinct character of Quang Binh. While both dishes share crispy textures and savory fillings, Banh Khoai is smaller, thicker, and paired with a special dipping sauce that highlights the flavors of this region.

What is Banh Khoai?

Banh Khoai from Quang Binh boasts a long history, originating from the central Vietnamese people’s need for a simple yet delicious dish. Its compact size makes it easy to hold and eat, and it’s typically served with a rich dipping sauce made from pork liver, roasted peanuts, and unique regional spices.

The pancake has a crispy crust made from a mixture of rice flour and beaten eggs. Some vendors add a touch of turmeric to the batter, giving it a vibrant golden color when cooked. Inside, the filling usually includes fresh shrimp, pork, and crunchy bean sprouts.

When you take a bite, you’ll experience a harmonious blend of the creamy, rich batter, the natural sweetness of the seafood, and the refreshing taste of fresh herbs like cucumber, lettuce, and aromatic mint. Some eateries also serve pickled bean sprouts on the side to cater to the local palate.

Thanks to its diverse flavors and unique appeal, Banh Khoai has earned rave reviews from both local and international visitors, becoming one of Quang Binh’s must-try culinary treasures.

The Difference Between Banh Khoai and Banh Xeo

While Banh Khoai shares similarities with Banh Xeo in appearance, it possesses unique characteristics that set it apart.

The first noticeable difference lies in the size. Banh Khoai is smaller and thicker, with a rounded and compact shape, whereas Banh Xeo is larger, thinner, and more delicate. In terms of ingredients, Banh Khoai uses more batter, resulting in a thicker and crispier crust. The filling in Banh Khoai is also more diverse, often including pork, shrimp, bean sprouts, and a variety of fresh herbs, which offer a richer combination of flavors compared to the simpler fillings of Banh Xeo.

The dipping sauce for Banh Khoai is another highlight. It is crafted from a blend of spices, roasted peanuts, and pork liver, creating a bold and unforgettable taste that enhances the dish’s appeal.

Thanks to these distinctive features, Banh Khoai has carved out its own place in Quang Binh’s culinary scene, becoming a must-try specialty for visitors exploring this beautiful region.

Where to Enjoy Banh Khoai in Quang Binh

When visiting Quang Binh, especially in Dong Hoi City, you’ll easily find places serving Banh Khoai. Many well-known spots are located in the city center, where the pancakes are carefully prepared and retain their traditional flavors. Additionally, coastal eateries are great options to try seafood-infused Banh Khoai, offering a crispy, flavorful experience right by the sea.

Here are some popular places to enjoy authentic Banh Khoai during your trip to Quang Binh:

• Co Nam Restaurant: 13 Tran Hung Dao, Dong Hoi City
• Ly Ly Restaurant: 11A Co Tam, Dong Hoi City
• Tu Quy Banh Khoai: 17 Co Tam, Dong Hoi City
• Thuy Phuong Restaurant: 09 Co Tam, Dong Hoi City

These spots are known for their delicious pancakes and warm local hospitality, making them perfect for a memorable dining experience in Quang Binh.

How to Make Authentic Quang Binh Banh Khoai

If you can’t visit Quang Binh, don’t worry! You can easily make this delicious Vietnamese pancake at home with the simple recipe below.

Ingredients for Banh Khoai

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare Banh Khoai:

• Rice flour: 200g
• Coconut milk: 100ml
• Egg: 1
• Shrimp and pork: 200g
• Bean sprouts: 100g
• Fresh herbs: Lettuce, mint, and other aromatic greens
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, cooking oil

Don’t forget the special dipping sauce made from pork liver, roasted peanuts, fish sauce, and other seasonings that give Banh Khoai its distinctive, savory flavor.

Steps to Make Banh Khoai

1. Prepare the Batter
   Mix the rice flour with coconut milk, the egg, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and let the batter rest for about 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling
   Clean the shrimp and pork, then chop them into small pieces. Marinate with salt, pepper, and a bit of chopped onion to enhance the flavor.
3. Cook the Pancake
   Heat a pan and add some cooking oil. Once hot, pour a thin layer of batter into the pan, then top with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. Cover with a lid and cook until the pancake is golden and crispy on both sides.
4. Make the Dipping Sauce
   Blend boiled pork liver until smooth, then mix it with fish sauce, sugar, lime juice, and roasted peanuts. This rich and flavorful sauce is the key to the unforgettable taste of Banh Khoai.
5. Serve and Enjoy
   Once the pancakes are golden and crispy, remove them from the pan. Serve with fresh herbs and the special dipping sauce for a perfect combination of flavors.

With these simple steps, you can create a delicious plate of Banh Khoai right at home to treat your family and friends. Enjoy!