Delicious Banh Cam (Vietnamese Sesame Balls) Recipe
If you’ve ever wandered through a Vietnamese market or street fair, you might have noticed the delightful sight of Banh Cam, also known as Vietnamese Sesame Balls. These yummy treats are not only a popular snack but also carry a rich cultural history. Traditionally enjoyed during festivals and family gatherings, Banh Cam symbolizes prosperity and happiness. Their crunchy exterior and sweet filling make them a favorite among all ages. In this blog post, we will explore how to make these amazing sesame balls right in your kitchen!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Glutinous rice flour | 1 cup |
| Water | 1/2 cup |
| Red bean paste or sweet mung bean paste | 1/2 cup |
| Sesame seeds | 1/3 cup |
| Cooking oil (for frying) | 3 cups |
| Food coloring (optional) | As needed |
Alternative Suggestions: If you cannot find glutinous rice flour, you can use regular rice flour, but the texture will be different. You can also swap the red bean paste for chocolate or even peanut butter for a fun twist!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix glutinous rice flour with water. Knead until it forms a smooth dough. If desired, add a drop of food coloring for a fun look.
- Divide the dough into small balls (about the size of a golf ball). Flatten each ball in your palm.
- Place a teaspoon of red bean paste in the center of each flattened dough. Carefully fold the edges over the filling and roll it into a smooth ball again.
- On a flat surface, pour the sesame seeds. Roll each ball in the seeds until they are fully coated.
- Heat the cooking oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Once hot, gently place the sesame balls in the oil.
- Fry the balls until they turn a golden brown, usually 3-4 minutes. Make sure to turn them occasionally for even frying.
- Once done, remove them from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Banh Cam warm!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 150 | 7% |
| Protein | 2g | 4% |
| Carbohydrates | 30g | 10% |
| Fats | 3g | 5% |
| Sugars | 5g | N/A |
| Sodium | 50mg | 2% |
Tips and Tricks
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the balls; otherwise, they will absorb too much oil.
- To ensure a crispy exterior, avoid overcrowding the pan while frying.
- If you find the dough too sticky, add a little more glutinous rice flour.
FAQs
1. What is Banh Cam?
Banh Cam is a Vietnamese dessert made of glutinous rice flour and filled with sweet bean paste, coated with sesame seeds.
2. Can I use other fillings?
Absolutely! You can use fillings like chocolate, peanut butter, or even fruit preserves to customize your Banh Cam.
3. How do I store leftover Banh Cam?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge.
4. Are Banh Cam gluten-free?
No, they are made with glutinous rice flour which contains gluten. However, you can find gluten-free alternatives if you avoid it.
5. Can I bake Banh Cam instead of frying?
While frying gives the best texture, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, but they won’t be as crunchy.
6. What can I serve with Banh Cam?
These sesame balls are perfect as a snack or dessert. You can serve them with tea for a delightful experience.
7. How do I know if the oil is hot enough?
A simple test is to drop a small piece of dough into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the surface quickly, the oil is ready.
8. Can I reheat leftover Banh Cam?
Yes! To reheat, place them in a preheated oven for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Now that you have all the details, it’s time to create your very own delicious Banh Cam at home! Happy cooking!
