Fried sticky rice cakes, or Banh Chung, are typically enjoyed hot or cooled down and then fried again for a crispy texture. However, frying Banh Chung to achieve that perfect crispiness without it sticking to the pan or becoming too dry, and especially without using any water, requires some technique.
Below is a detailed guide on how to fry Banh Chung to crispy perfection without the use of water, ensuring you can enjoy this delicious treat in the most appealing way possible:
Crispy Fried Banh Chung
Ingredients
Banh Chung: 1 piece (adjust according to serving size)
Cooking oil: A moderate amount (no need to be excessive)
Non-stick pan
Instructions for Frying Banh Chung without Water
Step 1: Cut the Banh Chung
Before frying, cut the Banh Chung into bite-sized pieces. For easier frying and even crispiness, slice the cake into thin pieces, about 1-2 cm thick. If you prefer a crispy outer layer with a softer inside, you can cut thicker slices, according to your taste.
Step 2: Prepare the Frying Pan
Choose a non-stick pan to ensure the cake doesn’t stick during frying. Preheat the pan before adding the cake, but be careful not to overheat it to avoid burning the cake.
Step 3: Fry the Banh Chung
No water needed: A little trick to frying crispy Banh Chung without water is to use the “dry frying” method. Simply add a small amount of cooking oil, about 1-2 tablespoons, to the heated pan.
Frying: Place each piece of Banh Chung into the pan without stacking them. Maintain a moderate heat to ensure even crispiness without burning. If the heat is too high, the outside will burn while the inside becomes dry and hard.
Flip: When the bottom of the Banh Chung turns golden brown, carefully flip it over to fry the other side. Be gentle to avoid breaking the cake. Fry for another 3-5 minutes until both sides are crispy and have a beautiful golden color.
Step 4: Remove and Drain Excess Oil
Once the Banh Chung is fried to crispiness on both sides, remove it from the pan and place it on a paper towel to absorb excess oil. This helps maintain the crispiness without becoming too greasy.
Tips for Frying Crispy Banh Chung without Water
Use a non-stick pan: This is crucial to prevent the cake from sticking to the pan and ensures even cooking on all sides. A regular pan may cause the cake to stick and burn.
Moderate to low heat: Frying Banh Chung without water requires moderate heat. Avoid high heat as it helps achieve even crispiness while keeping the inside soft and moist.
Use just enough oil: There’s no need to drench the cake in oil. About 1-2 tablespoons of oil is sufficient to get that desired crispness without making it overly greasy.
Side Dishes to Accompany Fried Banh Chung
Crispy fried Banh Chung not only tastes amazing but also pairs well with various side dishes, creating a diverse and mouthwatering meal.
Pickled onion: This traditional side dish is a perfect match for Banh Chung. The sour and spicy flavor of the pickled onion balances the richness of the cake, making the overall dish more harmonious and appealing.
Braised pork: Braised pork and crispy Banh Chung is a match made in heaven. The sweet and fatty pork blends beautifully with the crispiness of the cake, taking the dining experience to the next level.
Salted pickled vegetables: Banh Chung fried to perfection goes well with salted pickled vegetables, reducing any greasy feeling and enhancing the flavor. The mild sourness of the pickles balances the richness of the cake.
Chili sauce or soy sauce: For a simpler option, dip the fried Banh Chung into chili sauce or garlic-chili soy sauce for an added kick.
Frying Banh Chung to achieve that desirable crispiness without using water is a simple technique, but it requires a delicate touch. The result is a delicious traditional treat that can be paired with various side dishes to create a unique and appealing meal. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy crispy and tasty fried Banh Chung in the comfort of your home.
