Food & Receipts

Taste the Rustic Treat of Cao Bang – The Ap Chao Cake

Introducing the humble yet beloved local delicacy of Cao Bang, Vietnam - the Ap Chao Cake, or as some may call it, the Vit Chao Cake. This rustic treat holds a special place in the hearts of the locals, and it's about time we uncover the charm of this unique culinary delight. So, join us on this culinary journey as we explore the flavors, traditions, and stories behind this humble cake. It's a taste of Cao Bang you won't want to miss!

Administrator

10 July, 2024

101

Preparation
20 minutes Cooking
30 minutes Serves
2 – 3 people

Bánh áp chao, a delicious treat from Cao Bang, features a crispy outer shell and a juicy, tender duck meat filling. This unique dish is a favorite among locals and visitors alike due to its distinct flavor and texture. Let’s explore the recipe for this special delicacy.

1Ingredients for Bánh Áp Chao

300g deboned duck meat
350g taro
150g
200gr shallots
Seasonings: fish sauce, salt, pepper

Ingredients for Bánh Áp Chao

Tip: When choosing duck meat, opt for pieces with a nice pink color, sufficient thickness, and even fat marbling. Additionally, ensure you source your meat from a trusted and reputable supplier.

2Cooking Instructions for Bánh Áp Chao

Step 1 Prepare the Ingredients

Preparing the Ingredients

Duck Meat: Rinse the deboned duck meat and cut it into small, bite-sized pieces. Season the meat with a pinch of salt and set it aside in the refrigerator.

Step 2 Make the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine rice flour and glutinous rice flour. Add a pinch of seasoning to enhance the flavor. Mix the dry ingredients, then gradually add warm water while stirring until you achieve a smooth and lump-free batter.

Making the Batter

Once mixed, knead the batter with your hands until it becomes smooth and no longer sticky. Place the batter back into the bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rest for 3-4 hours.

Step 3 Fry the Cakes

After the duck meat has marinated and the batter has rested, it’s time to fry the cakes. Place 1-2 tablespoons of batter into a metal mold or ladle, add a piece of duck meat in the center, and cover with another 1-2 tablespoons of batter to enclose the meat filling. Heat a non-stick pan with enough oil to submerge the cakes. When the oil is hot, carefully lower the mold into the oil to fry the cakes.

Frying the Cakes

Once the outer batter sets, remove the mold. Fry the cakes until golden on one side, then flip them over to cook the other side. When the cakes are evenly golden, remove them from the oil and drain on a wire rack or paper towels. Repeat this process until all the batter and filling are used up.

Step 4 Serving Suggestions

Final Product

Arrange the fried cakes on a serving plate and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Serve with fresh herbs and a dipping sauce made of fish sauce, chili, and lime juice. The combination of crispy batter, juicy duck meat, and tangy herbs creates a delightful sensory experience.

3Enjoying Bánh Áp Chao

Enjoying Bánh Áp Chao

Bánh áp chao boasts a golden-brown exterior and a crispy texture that shatters upon biting. The duck meat filling is flavorful and tender, creating a harmonious blend of tastes and textures. Accompany the cakes with your choice of fresh herbs and a dipping sauce of fish sauce and chili. This humble yet delectable dish is a must-try when visiting Cao Bang.

We hope you enjoyed learning about Bánh Áp Chao, a beloved delicacy of Cao Bang. Thank you for joining us, and we wish you many delightful culinary adventures.

Frequently asked questions

Ap chao is a traditional cake originating from Cao Bang province, in the north of Vietnam. It is a rustic treat, made with simple ingredients such as glutinous rice flour, sugar, and coconut milk, and steamed in a banana leaf.

The process of making ap chao is quite simple. The glutinous rice flour is mixed with sugar and coconut milk to form a dough, which is then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed until cooked. The banana leaf imparts a unique fragrance and flavor to the cake.

Ap chao has a soft, sticky texture and a sweet, delicate flavor. The coconut milk and banana leaf give it a subtle tropical taste, and it is often enjoyed as a dessert or snack.

Yes, ap chao is a relatively healthy snack option as it is made with natural ingredients and does not contain any artificial additives. It is also steamed, which is a healthier alternative to frying.

Ap chao is a local specialty of Cao Bang province and can be found in many traditional markets and street stalls in the region. It is also sometimes available in specialty Vietnamese grocery stores in other parts of the country.