Bánh khọt, a delicacy from Vũng Tàu, is a type of small, crispy pancake made from a unique blend of rice flour and other ingredients, often topped with shrimp and served with a delicious dipping sauce. This mouth-watering dish has a fascinating origin story and is a must-try when visiting Vũng Tàu.
According to local legends, the name “bánh khọt” is derived from the sound “khọt khọt,” which is made when the pancakes are removed from the pan. The dish is believed to have originated from a similar pancake called “bánh căn” from the regions of Bình Thuận, Ninh Thuận, and Thanh Hóa.
Each restaurant in Vũng Tàu has its unique recipe for bánh khọt, with variations in the batter, seafood, and most noticeably, the dipping sauce. The key to a perfect bánh khọt lies in the batter, which requires a meticulous preparation process. The rice is soaked for 2-3 hours and then ground with a specific amount of water. The batter is then left overnight to enhance its crispness and flavor.
The process of making bánh khọt is a labor of love, with each step carefully executed to ensure the best results.
Fresh shrimp is a favorite topping for bánh khọt, and the preparation of the shrimp is just as important. The heads and shells are removed, and the shrimp is cleaned and left to dry. Some restaurants even use a unique technique of mincing the shrimp and stir-frying it dry, adding a creative touch to the dish’s presentation and flavor.
Bánh khọt is cooked in small aluminum or stainless steel pans, which are first greased with a layer of pork fat to prevent sticking. A careful amount of batter is poured into the pan, and fresh shrimp is placed in the center. The lid is then closed for a few minutes to allow the pancake to cook perfectly.
The delicious bánh khọt, fresh out of the pan, is a sight to behold.
Once the bánh khọt is cooked, it is carefully removed from the pan and served with a side of dried shrimp and scallion oil. The crispness of the pancake, the freshness of the shrimp, and the unique dipping sauce create a harmonious blend of flavors.
The true star of this dish is the dipping sauce, a perfect balance of sweet and sour, with a hint of spice. The sauce enhances the flavor of the bánh khọt, bringing out the sweetness of the seafood and the crispness of the vegetables.
Bánh khọt, a beloved street food in Vũng Tàu, is a culinary delight for locals and visitors alike.
To elevate the dining experience, bánh khọt is often served with a variety of fresh herbs such as green mustard, perilla, fish mint, basil, lettuce, and shredded papaya. The herbs add a refreshing touch to the dish, complementing the savory flavors of the pancake and the dipping sauce.
The best way to enjoy bánh khọt is to wrap it in a lettuce leaf along with some herbs and dip it into the sauce. The first bite delivers a crisp texture and a balanced blend of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors, with the freshness of the herbs and the richness of the scallion oil.
When in Vũng Tàu, indulging in a plate of bánh khọt is a must.
If you’re visiting Vũng Tàu, there are several renowned restaurants that serve this delicious dish, each with its unique twist. Here are a few recommendations:
Bánh Khọt Cô Hai: Known for its delicious bánh khọt and attention to hygiene, this restaurant offers a great dining experience. The pancakes are crispy, the shrimp is golden, and the dipping sauce is just right. A plate of bánh khọt here costs around 55,000 VND.
Bánh Khọt Cô Ba: This restaurant is famous for its perfectly crispy pancakes, slightly spicy and sweet dipping sauce, and well-prepared papaya. A plate of bánh khọt at Cô Ba typically costs between 55,000 and 80,000 VND.
Bánh Khọt Gốc Vú Sữa: A must-visit spot for bánh khọt lovers, this restaurant is known for its large shrimp, fresh herbs, and unique-tasting dipping sauce. Diners can also watch the chefs prepare the dish. A plate of bánh khọt here costs around 55,000 VND.
Bánh Khọt Cây Sung: While not a tourist hotspot, this restaurant is a local favorite. The bánh khọt here has a beautiful golden color, fresh shrimp, and a dipping sauce that complements the dish perfectly. The flavor profile suits the tastes of those from the Western region. A plate of bánh khọt at Cây Sung costs between 50,000 and 80,000 VND.
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