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HOI AN BANH XEO - THE RICH FLAVORS OF THE ANCIENT TOWN

When it comes to Hoi An cuisine, alongside Cao Lau, Quang noodles, or chicken rice, Banh Xeo (Vietnamese sizzling pancake) is a rustic yet deeply memorable dish for visitors from near and far.

Hoi An's Banh Xeo is made from finely ground rice flour mixed with turmeric powder, creating a beautiful golden-yellow hue. The filling consists of fresh shrimp and well-seasoned pork belly, which are sizzled on a hot pan. The sizzling sound - “xeo xeo” - made when pouring the batter into the pan is exactly where this specialty gets its name.

The unique charm of Hoi An's Banh Xeo lies in its outer layer, which is crispy yet remains soft and fragrant on the inside. The pancake is typically served with fresh herbs from Tra Que vegetable village, green bananas, sour star fruit, cucumber, and thin rice paper. Everything is rolled up together and dipped into a rich, creamy sauce made from fermented soybean paste, pork liver, and ground peanuts, creating a distinctive flavor that is hard to find anywhere else.

Locals usually enjoy Banh Xeo on rainy days or during chilly weather. As soon as the pancake is freshly made, piping hot and crispy, diners roll it with fresh herbs and dip it into the signature sauce to fully experience the authentic taste of the ancient town.

Banh Xeo (Collected photo)

It can be said that Banh Xeo is not only a delicious dish but also a beautiful feature of Hoi An's culinary culture. If you have the chance to visit the ancient town, do not forget to savor a hot, crispy Banh Xeo to truly connect with the signature flavors of this heritage land.