Bánh giò

Vietnamese steamed rice cake

Bánh giò

A traditional Bánh giò

Bánh giò is a traditional Vietnamese steamed rice cake, commonly found in Vietnamese cuisine. It is a popular snack or breakfast item, known for its distinctive pyramid shape and savory filling.

Ingredients and Preparation

Bánh giò is made from a combination of rice flour and tapioca flour, which gives it a soft and slightly chewy texture. The filling typically consists of minced pork, wood ear mushrooms, and shallots, seasoned with fish sauce, pepper, and other spices. The mixture is wrapped in banana leaves, which impart a subtle aroma to the cake during steaming.

Dough

The dough for bánh giò is prepared by mixing rice flour and tapioca flour with water to form a smooth batter. This batter is cooked over low heat until it thickens, creating a pliable dough that can be easily shaped.

Filling

The filling is made by sautéing minced pork with finely chopped wood ear mushrooms and shallots. The mixture is seasoned with fish sauce, salt, and pepper to enhance its flavor.

Assembly

To assemble bánh giò, a piece of banana leaf is laid flat, and a portion of dough is placed in the center. A spoonful of the pork filling is added, and the dough is folded over to encase the filling. The banana leaf is then wrapped around the dough to form a pyramid shape, and the package is secured with string or strips of banana leaf.

Steaming

The wrapped bánh giò are placed in a steamer and cooked for about 30 minutes, until the dough is fully cooked and the flavors have melded together.

Serving

Bánh giò is typically served warm, often accompanied by a side of pickled vegetables or a dipping sauce made from fish sauce, lime juice, and chili. It is a popular street food in Vietnam and is enjoyed by people of all ages.

Cultural Significance

Bánh giò is a staple in Vietnamese cuisine and is often associated with comfort food. It is commonly found at street vendors, local markets, and family gatherings. The dish is appreciated for its simplicity and the harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Related pages

• Vietnamese cuisine
• Bánh ch_ng
• Bánh tét
• Bánh bao