Hue food tour - Discover " Banh xeo " Hue

1. Introduction to 'Banh Xeo' in Hue

'Banh Xeo' is a staple savory pancake that is beloved among locals and visitors in Hue. Light and crispy on the outside yet soft and multilayered within, 'Banh Xeo' holds a special place in Hue's culinary heritage. On this food tour, we will explore the traditional way 'Banh Xeo' is prepared in Hue's kitchens and sample the best restaurants serving up this tasty specialty.

What is 'Banh Xeo' and Why is It a Must-Try Dish in Hue?

'Banh Xeo' is a rice flour crepe filled with bean sprouts, pork, and shrimp. It is expertly cooked on a griddle until golden brown and crispy on the exterior while remaining soft inside. The layers of the pancake separate so each bite delivers a unique medley of textures. 

Light yet filling, 'Banh Xeo' is the perfect snack or meal any time of day. As the traditional cuisine of Hue, every trip is complete with indulging in this local delicacy. The subtle flavors truly represent Hue's culinary sophistication.

How Hue’s Version of 'Banh Xeo' Differs from Other Regions in Vietnam

While 'Banh Xeo' can be found throughout Vietnam, Hue's iteration stands out with its thin, layering crepe-style pancake. Other regions may use thicker batters or pre-formed rounds, but Hue prides itself on the lightness and delicate nature of its 'Banh Xeo.' The toppings also differ slightly, with Hue cuisine emphasizing bean sprouts as the primary filling alongside the customary shrimp and pork. Subtle seasoning and cooking techniques further distinguish Hue's 'Banh Xeo' as the most authentic version of this beloved Vietnamese specialty.

2. The History and Cultural Significance of 'Banh Xeo' Hue

The Origins of 'Banh Xeo' and Its Evolution in Hue

Believed to have originated from southern Vietnam, 'Banh Xeo' was embraced by the royal court in Hue in the 19th century. Over time, Hue cooks put their own spin on the dish, perfecting its light and multilayered texture. Today's version of 'Banh Xeo' closely resembles incarnations served during the Nguyen Dynasty, bearing testament to Hue's ability to preserve culinary tradition.

'Banh Xeo' as a Part of Hue’s Rich Culinary Tradition

As Vietnam's former imperial capital, Hue cuisine emerged from royal palaces and refined courtly tastes. Delicately flavored dishes highlighted fresh, quality ingredients as befitting noble families. 'Banh Xeo' came to represent Hue's culinary identity, with unique preparation techniques passed down through generations. Even today, families continue dining on 'Banh Xeo' to celebrate milestones and preserve their cultural heritage. Trying 'Banh Xeo' offers visitors a glimpse into Hue's past and an authentic part of its culinary culture.

3. Ingredients and Preparation of Hue’s 'Banh Xeo'

Key Ingredients that Make Hue’s 'Banh Xeo' Special

• Rice flour: A fine, soft rice flour gives the pancakes their light texture. Local varieties like Nhat Luong rice flour are preferred.
• Turmeric: A pinch of turmeric powder provides a pretty golden-yellow hue as well as subtle floral notes.
• Bean sprouts: Fresh mung bean sprouts lend a delightful crunch to each bite. Their mild flavor also balances the richer ingredients.
• Shrimp and pork or fish: Small dried shrimp and finely minced pork add savory umami depth. Traditional recipes call for a 50/50 ratio.
• Wood ear mushrooms: Rehydrated black wood ear mushrooms act as a thickening agent while infusing a hint of earthiness.
• Aromatics: Shallots, garlic, and fish sauce are key to unlocking the layered flavors in every pancake.

The Art of Cooking 'Banh Xeo': Techniques Passed Down for Generations

• Batters: Rice flour is whisked with warm water to a pourable pancake batter consistency. Traditionally mixed by hand, not blended.
• Assembly: The filling is placed in the center of an oiled griddle. The batter is carefully poured around and over the top.
• Cooking: Lightly pressing the edges as it sets allows air pockets to form multiple layers. A spatula is used to check the golden crispy bottom.
• Finishing: The finished 'Banh Xeo' is carefully folded in half or quarters and moved to a serving plate. Best enjoyed hot off the griddle.

Toppings and Dipping Sauces: The Perfect Complement to 'Banh Xeo'

The wet batter is carefully assembled, combining the key ingredients with warm water to a pourable yet thick consistency. Traditionally, this was mixed by hand rather than using blenders. 

To assemble each pancake, the filling is placed in the center of an oiled griddle. The batter is poured around and over the top. A light hand is used when pressing the edges as it begins to set, allowing air pockets to form the multiple layers signature of Hue's style. Cooks skillfully flip each pancake when the underside is a beautiful golden brown color. Finished pancakes are carefully folded and served hot off the griddle.

4. Where to Find the Best 'Banh Xeo' in Hue

Top Street Food Stalls and Restaurants for Authentic 'Banh Xeo'

• Banh Xeo 34 Phan Dinh Phung - A bustling street stall open late serving customers for over 30 years.
• Banh Xeo 121 Le Loi - Run by a local family, their 'Banh Xeo' is consistently rated as some of Hue's finest.

Hidden Gems: Local Spots Loved by Hue Residents

• Banh Xeo Tan Hong Bien - This no-frills family restaurant is packed with locals at lunch.
• Banh Xeo Hung Phuoc - Just outside the city, Hung Phuoc draws huge crowds for their thin, lightly crisped pancakes.

Must-Visit Stops on a Hue Food Tour to Experience 'Banh Xeo'

• Song Huong Restaurant - Historic restaurant specializing in imperial Hue cuisine including 'Banh Xeo'.
• Van Thanh Restaurant - Upscale restaurant serving 'Banh Xeo' alongside other signature dishes in elegant surroundings.

5. How to Enjoy 'Banh Xeo' on a Hue Food Tour

Tips for Eating 'Banh Xeo' Like a Local

• Order a side plate of fresh herbs like Thai basil and mint for topping each crispy bite.
• Dip pieces into separate small dishes of both sweet-tangy nuoc cham and chili-garlic sauces for contrasting flavors.
• Ask for sliced limes to squeeze over 'Banh Xeo' for an extra refreshing twist.

Pairing 'Banh Xeo' with Other Hue Delicacies on a Food Tour

• Balance hearty 'Banh Xeo' with lighter dishes like Cha Ca salad or white rose dumplings.
• Sample local specialties like imperial rolls or braised pork knuckles between 'Banh Xeo' stops.
• Wash it all down with Hue's cooled white tea or fresh young coconut water.

Combining 'Banh Xeo' with Sightseeing: Explore Hue’s Historic Sites

• Pack a to-go 'Banh Xeo' for snacking along the Perfume River.
• Refuel with a street food 'Banh Xeo' after visiting the storied Citadel and Forbidden Purple City.
• Finish the day indulging in 'Banh Xeo' near the Thien Mu Pagoda or Chùa Cầu Pagoda.

Conclusion

Why 'Banh Xeo' is a Highlight of Hue’s Culinary Scene

With its multilayered textures and intricate yet balanced flavors, 'Banh Xeo' demonstrates why Hue is considered Vietnam's culinary capital. Few dishes better represent the refined palate and care taken in Hue's royal court-inspired home cooking.

Explore Hue’s Unique Flavors by Discovering Its Iconic 'Banh Xeo'

A meal or stroll through Hue is incomplete without trying the city's signature savory pancakes. Bite into a warm and crispy 'Banh Xeo' straight from the griddle to directly experience why they are so beloved. The tasting is a delicious entry into appreciating Hue's food culture and what makes its cuisine truly special.

To fully immerse yourself in the flavors of Hue, join a guided food tour with ThreeLands Travel. Along with sampling 'Banh Xeo' at top local spots, learn the art of its preparation and historical significance from an expert local guide. Wander through this enchanting riverside city fueled by its delicious heritage dishes.

6. FAQs About 'Banh Xeo' in Hue

What is the difference between Hue’s 'Banh Xeo' and other regions?

Hue's 'Banh Xeo' differs in its lighter thinner consistency and use of toasted rice flour. The crepe-like texture sets it apart from chunkier batters in Central Vietnam or thicker pancakes further south. Bean sprouts are the primary filling rather than pickled vegetables elsewhere.

Can you find vegetarian or vegan versions of 'Banh Xeo' in Hue?

While traditional recipes use shrimp and pork, most Hue eateries can replace the meat with mushrooms, pickled vegetables, or tofu upon request. Some stalls even offer dedicated vegetarian 'Banh Xeo'. In place of shrimp paste or fish sauce, vegetarians can accentuate the flavors with lime or extra herbs. With creativity, 'Banh Xeo' can be enjoyed by all in Hue.