Banh Xeo: The Sizzling Vietnamese Pancake You Can’t Resist

If you’re a foodie exploring Vietnamese cuisine, one dish you absolutely can’t miss is Banh Xeo. This crispy, savory pancake is a beloved street food staple that showcases the rich flavors, vibrant colors, and diverse textures of Vietnam’s culinary traditions. Originating from the southern region of Vietnam but embraced throughout the country, Banh Xeo has a charm that extends far beyond its simple ingredients. The name itself, “Banh Xeo,” is derived from the sound it makes when batter hits a sizzling hot pan—“Xeo!”

With its golden, crispy exterior, a variety of savory fillings, and a fresh, herb-filled wrap, Banh Xeo is an absolute must-try for anyone wanting a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine. In this article, we’ll delve into the history of Banh Xeo, what makes it so special, and where to find the best versions in Da Nang and beyond.

1. What is Banh Xeo?

Banh Xeo is often described as a Vietnamese pancake or crepe, but it’s far more than that. The batter is made from a mixture of rice flour, water, and turmeric, which gives it its distinctive yellow color. The addition of coconut milk is common in the southern style, making the pancake richer and slightly sweet. The batter is poured into a hot pan and cooked until it’s crispy around the edges, while the center remains slightly tender.

The typical fillings include shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, though there are numerous variations depending on the region and personal preferences. Once cooked, the pancake is folded in half, like a taco, and served with a heap of fresh greens, herbs, and a side of nuoc cham (Vietnamese dipping sauce) made from fish sauce, lime, sugar, and chili.

But the magic of Banh Xeo isn’t just in its flavor—it’s in the experience of eating it. To truly enjoy this dish like a local, you don’t eat it with a fork or chopsticks. Instead, you take a piece of the pancake, wrap it in rice paper or a large lettuce leaf along with some fresh herbs, and then dip it in the nuoc cham sauce. Each bite is a delightful balance of crispy, savory, and fresh, with a hint of sweetness and a touch of heat.

2. The History and Origin of Banh Xeo

Banh Xeo has its roots in the southern region of Vietnam, where it evolved as a popular street food. The dish’s origin is often linked to the local farmers who would make these pancakes after a long day of work, using rice flour and fresh ingredients from their fields. Over time, it spread across the country, and each region developed its own version, adding unique ingredients and changing the cooking style slightly.

In the southern regions, Banh Xeo is larger and typically includes a richer batter, sometimes with the addition of coconut milk. In central Vietnam, especially in places like Da Nang and Hue, Banh Xeo is smaller and more delicate, with a focus on the crispy texture and lighter fillings. Regardless of the variation, the essence of Banh Xeo remains the same—a delightful street food meant to be shared and enjoyed.

3. What Makes Banh Xeo Unique?

Banh Xeo is a perfect representation of Vietnam’s love for contrast—crispy yet soft, savory yet sweet, rich yet fresh. Here’s what makes it truly unique:

The Batter:

The batter is made from rice flour, water, turmeric, and sometimes coconut milk, giving it a beautiful yellow hue and a delicate flavor. Turmeric not only adds color but also lends a subtle earthiness that balances the richness of the filling.

The Filling:

Traditional fillings usually include a combination of shrimp, thinly sliced pork belly, and bean sprouts. Some variations also include mushrooms, green onions, or even quail eggs. The shrimp and pork are often sautéed briefly before being added to the pancake, ensuring they are perfectly cooked and flavorful.

The Fresh Wrap:

What sets Banh Xeo apart is the way it’s eaten. It’s not just a pancake on a plate—it’s an interactive dish that’s wrapped in rice paper or lettuce leaves, along with a generous handful of fresh herbs like mint, cilantro, and perilla. This wrap adds freshness and a vibrant contrast to the richness of the pancake.

The Dipping Sauce:

No Banh Xeo experience is complete without nuoc cham, the quintessential Vietnamese dipping sauce made from fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, garlic, and chili. The sauce’s tangy, sweet, and savory profile complements the pancake and enhances every bite.

4. Regional Variations of Banh Xeo

Just like many other Vietnamese dishes, Banh Xeo has regional variations that are worth exploring. Here’s a quick look at how it differs from north to south:

Southern Style:

In the south, particularly in Ho Chi Minh City, Banh Xeo is large, thin, and very crispy, with a lacy texture around the edges. The addition of coconut milk to the batter makes it richer and slightly sweet, contrasting beautifully with the savory fillings.

Central Style:

In Central Vietnam, especially in Da Nang and Hue, Banh Xeo is smaller and thicker, with a focus on crispiness. The central version is often served with rice paper for wrapping, along with a side of pickled vegetables.

Northern Style:

In the north, Banh Xeo is less common, but when it is served, the batter is lighter, and the pancake is usually smaller. The fillings are simpler, often just shrimp and green onions, reflecting the northern preference for less elaborate food.

5. Where to Eat the Best Banh Xeo in Da Nang and Hoi An

While Banh Xeo can be found across the country, enjoying it in Central Vietnam is a special treat. Here are some of the top spots to try it in Da Nang and Hoi An:

1. Banh Xeo Ba Duong (Da Nang)

One of the most famous spots for Banh Xeo in Da Nang, Ba Duong has been serving locals and tourists alike for years. The pancakes here are smaller and crispier, perfect for wrapping in rice paper with fresh greens.

Address: K280/23 Hoang Dieu Street, Da Nang.

2. Co Muoi Banh Xeo (Da Nang)

A humble eatery known for its authentic central-style Banh Xeo. The pancakes are crisp and light, served with an array of fresh herbs and a spicy dipping sauce.

Address: 23 Chau Thi Vinh Te Street, Da Nang.

3. Bale Well Restaurant (Hoi An)

This restaurant in Hoi An serves a complete Banh Xeo experience with grilled pork skewers, spring rolls, and rice paper, so you can build your own wraps. It’s a great place to enjoy a variety of flavors in one meal.

Address: 45/51 Tran Hung Dao Street, Hoi An.

4. Ms. Hoa Banh Xeo (Hoi An)

A local favorite, Ms. Hoa’s Banh Xeo is famous for its perfectly crisp texture and delicious fillings. Served with fresh herbs and a homemade dipping sauce, it’s a must-visit for Banh Xeo enthusiasts.

Address: 17/2 Nguyen Hoang Street, Hoi An.

6. How to Eat Banh Xeo Like a Local

Eating Banh Xeo is an interactive experience that’s best enjoyed with your hands. Here’s how to eat it like a pro:

1. Tear Off a Piece: Use your chopsticks to tear off a small piece of the pancake.
2. Wrap It Up: Place the pancake piece on a sheet of rice paper or a large lettuce leaf. Add fresh herbs like basil, mint, and cilantro.
3. Roll and Dip: Roll the wrap tightly, dip it in the nuoc cham sauce, and take a big bite!
4. Enjoy the Contrast: Notice the balance of textures and flavors—the crispy pancake, tender fillings, fresh herbs, and tangy dipping sauce.

7. Make Banh Xeo at Home: A Simple Recipe

If you can’t make it to Vietnam, here’s a simple Banh Xeo recipe to try at home:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rice flour
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 cup coconut milk (optional)
• 1 cup water
• 200g shrimp, peeled
• 200g pork belly, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup bean sprouts
• 2 spring onions, chopped
• Fresh herbs (lettuce, basil, mint)
• Nuoc Cham sauce for dipping

Instructions:

1. Make the Batter: In a bowl, whisk together rice flour, turmeric, coconut milk, and water until smooth. Let it rest for 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Filling: Sauté the shrimp and pork in a hot pan until just cooked. Remove and set aside.
3. Cook the Pancake: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add a little oil, pour a ladle of batter, and swirl to coat the pan. Add some shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. Cover and cook until crispy.
4. Fold and Serve: Fold the pancake in half and serve with fresh herbs, rice paper, and dipping sauce.

8. Final Thoughts: A Culinary Delight Worth the Sizzle

Banh Xeo is more than just a pancake—it’s a culinary experience that embodies the vibrancy, creativity, and communal spirit of Vietnamese cuisine. Whether you’re enjoying it on a bustling street corner in Da Nang or making it at home, Banh Xeo is a dish that will make you fall in love with the diverse flavors of Vietnam.

Ready to try Banh Xeo? Join one of our food tours to taste the best pancakes in Central Vietnam and learn the stories behind each delicious bite!