Bánh xèo is one of the most popular dishes in Vietnam. All three regions of North, Central, and South Vietnam have this pancake. However, each region prepares it differently, and its popularity varies. So where is Bánh xèo a specialty? What is it made of? How many calories? And does eating Bánh xèo lead to weight gain? Let’s explore together.
Where is Bánh xèo a specialty?
Every region in Vietnam has a pancake called Bánh xèo (sizzling cake). It’s named so because of the “sizzling” sound it makes while frying.
Once upon a time, Bánh xèo was quite common in the North. However, due to its simplistic preparation and taste, it has lost its allure over time. Nowadays, Bánh xèo from the North isn’t as famous. When Northerners mention Bánh xèo, they typically refer to the Central or Western version.
Central Bánh xèo is typically small or medium-sized
The Central and Western versions of Bánh xèo are prepared similarly. In general, both these versions are intricate in their ingredients. Therefore, when discussing where Bánh xèo is a specialty, it’s important to highlight that it’s a delicacy in both Central Vietnam, specifically the South Central region (like Đà Nẵng, Quảng Nam, Quảng Ngãi, Nha Trang, Bình Định) and the West. However, Bánh xèo has been adapted to represent the unique identity of each locale.
For instance, Central Bánh xèo is characterized by its small to medium size. Depending on the place, the pancake can be either crispy or slightly chewy. In contrast, the Western version is typically made in large pans, resulting in thin, crispy pancakes that are less rich.
The fillings in Central Bánh xèo predominantly include seafood like shrimp, squid, and fish. Meanwhile, the Western Bánh xèo fillings typically comprise duck meat, pork, and various mushrooms.
Central Bánh xèo is typically small or medium-sized
The Central and Western versions of Bánh xèo are prepared similarly. In general, both these versions are intricate in their ingredients. Therefore, when discussing where Bánh xèo is a specialty, it’s important to highlight that it’s a delicacy in both Central Vietnam, specifically the South Central region (like Đà Nẵng, Quảng Nam, Quảng Ngãi, Nha Trang, Bình Định) and the West. However, Bánh xèo has been adapted to represent the unique identity of each locale.
For instance, Central Bánh xèo is characterized by its small to medium size. Depending on the place, the pancake can be either crispy or slightly chewy. In contrast, the Western version is typically made in large pans, resulting in thin, crispy pancakes that are less rich.
The fillings in Central Bánh xèo predominantly include seafood like shrimp, squid, and fish. Meanwhile, the Western Bánh xèo fillings typically comprise duck meat, pork, and various mushrooms.
Bánh xèo, regardless of where it’s made, is primarily made from rice flour. Additionally, other types of flour and ingredients can be mixed in to achieve a desired color
The batter for Bánh xèo is naturally white, but people often add turmeric powder or coconut coloring (especially in the Western region) to give it a more appealing yellow hue.
How many calories? Does eating Bánh xèo lead to weight gain?
According to calculations, a small 100g Bánh xèo, complete with its crust, seasoning, and fillings like shrimp or squid, and minced meat contains about 140 calories. A larger 226g pancake contains about 315 calories.
Eating Bánh xèo won’t necessarily lead to weight gain if consumed in moderation
Considering that an average adult requires 1600-2000 calories per day, the calorie content in 100g of Bánh xèo is relatively low, so there’s no need to worry about gaining weight.
In conclusion, this article has discussed where Bánh xèo is considered a specialty and answered several other intriguing questions. Hopefully, this provides you with a deeper understanding of and appreciation for one of Vietnam’s most renowned delicacies.