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Steamed Rice Rolls (Bánh Cuốn): A Delicate Vietnamese Delight

Steamed Rice Rolls, or Bánh Cuốn, are a beloved Vietnamese dish known for their soft, silky texture and savory filling. This dish is made by steaming thin layers of rice batter, which are then filled with a mixture of ground pork, wood ear mushrooms, and shallots. Bánh Cuốn is usually served with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, fried shallots, and a tangy fish sauce-based dipping sauce, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Whether enjoyed as a breakfast staple or a light meal, Bánh Cuốn is a true representation of the elegance in Vietnamese cuisine, offering a harmony of savory, fresh, and aromatic elements in every bite.

At Viet Kitchen, we’ll guide you through the process of making this iconic dish at home. With simple techniques and fresh ingredients, you’ll soon master the art of making Steamed Rice Rolls in your own kitchen.

How to Make Steamed Rice Rolls (Bánh Cuốn)

Ingredients (Serves 4):

For the Rice Rolls:
- Rice flour: 150g
- Tapioca starch: 50g (for added elasticity)
- Water: 500ml
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Oil: for greasing
For the Filling:
- Ground pork: 200g
- Wood ear mushrooms: 50g, soaked and finely chopped
- Shallots: 2, minced
- Fish sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Black pepper: a pinch
For Garnishing and Serving:
- Fried shallots: 2 tablespoons
- Fresh herbs: mint, cilantro, and Thai basil
- Bean sprouts: 100g
- Cucumber slices: optional
- Dipping sauce (recipe below)
For the Dipping Sauce (Nước Chấm):
- Fish sauce: 3 tablespoons
- Lime juice: 1 tablespoon
- Sugar: 1 tablespoon
- Garlic and chili, finely minced, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Rice Batter:

In a bowl, mix together rice flour, tapioca starch, water, and salt. Whisk well until the batter is smooth and lump-free. Let it rest for 15 minutes.

2. Make the Filling:

Warm a little oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the shallots until fragrant, then add ground pork, wood ear mushrooms, fish sauce, and pepper. Cook the pork until it turns brown and is fully done.

3. Steam the Rice Sheets:

If you have a steaming setup, cover the steamer with a cloth. Lightly grease the cloth with oil to prevent sticking. Pour a thin layer of batter over the cloth, steam for about 1-2 minutes until it turns translucent. Carefully transfer the rice sheet to a clean plate.

4. Roll the Rice Sheets:

Place a spoonful of the pork filling onto the rice sheet, then roll it tightly like a spring roll. Repeat until all batter and filling are used.

5. Prepare the Dipping Sauce:

In a small bowl, mix fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, garlic, and chili. Adjust to taste for sweetness, saltiness, or spiciness.

6. Serve:

Arrange the rolls on a serving plate. Garnish with fried shallots, fresh herbs, and bean sprouts. Serve with the dipping sauce and enjoy.

FAQs about Steamed Rice Rolls (Bánh Cuốn)

1. Can I make Steamed Rice Rolls without a steamer?
Yes, you can use a non-stick pan to steam the rice batter. Lightly grease the pan, pour in a thin layer of batter, cover with a lid, and cook until translucent.

2. Can I use other proteins in the filling?
Certainly! You can substitute pork with shrimp, chicken, or tofu for a different twist. Vegetarians can use mushrooms, tofu, or a combination of vegetables.

3. How do I prevent the rice rolls from sticking to each other?
Make sure the rice sheets are slightly oiled, or place parchment paper between them while you work. This prevents them from sticking together.

4. Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter in advance and store it in the fridge for a few hours. Just stir well before using as the ingredients may settle.

5. How do I ensure the rice sheets are thin enough?
Use a ladle to pour a small amount of batter onto the steamer or pan, and quickly swirl it around to create an even, thin layer.

6. How do I store leftover Steamed Rice Rolls?
Leftover rolls can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to two days. Reheat by steaming them briefly before serving.

7. Is there a vegan version of Bánh Cuốn?
Yes! For a vegan option, replace the pork with tofu or a combination of mushrooms, and use soy sauce or a vegan fish sauce substitute in the filling and dipping sauce.

Tips for Perfect Steamed Rice Rolls

Achieve Thin Rice Sheets: Use a small amount of batter and spread it thinly on the steamer for delicate, light rolls.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and fried shallots add an essential layer of flavor and texture to the dish.
Experiment with Fillings: Try different proteins like shrimp or chicken, or even a mix of vegetables for variation.
Make Ahead: Prepare the filling and dipping sauce ahead of time to make the process smoother when you’re ready to cook.
Serve Fresh: Bánh Cuốn is best served fresh, while the rolls are soft and warm.

Conclusion

Steamed Rice Rolls (Bánh Cuốn) are a delicious and delicate Vietnamese dish that showcases the art of balance in flavor and texture. With its soft rice rolls, savory filling, and fresh herbs, Bánh Cuốn offers a light yet satisfying meal perfect for any time of day. Making this dish at home allows you to enjoy an authentic taste of Vietnam, and it’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

Steamed Rice Rolls