Welcome to the world of Vietnamese cuisine! Today, we’re going to explore a delicious and traditional dish called Banh Khuc. This dish is not only mouthwatering but also holds a special place in Vietnamese culture. Banh Khuc, often referred to as “green sticky rice cake,” is a popular snack that beautifully combines the flavors of glutinous rice, mung beans, and pork.
Eating Banh Khuc is like taking a bite of Vietnamese history. Traditionally enjoyed during festivals and special occasions, this recipe has been passed down through generations. Its unique taste and texture make it a favorite among both locals and visitors. If you want to impress your family and friends with a dish that showcases the richness of Vietnamese cuisine, Banh Khuc is the perfect choice!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Glutinous rice | 2 cups |
| Mung beans (peeled) | 1 cup |
| Pork belly (thinly sliced) | 200 grams |
| Fresh pandan leaves (or pandan extract) | 5 leaves (or 1 tsp extract) |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Black pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Water | As needed |
| Banana leaves (for wrapping) | As needed |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the mung beans: Soak the mung beans in water for about 2 hours, then steam them until tender. This usually takes around 20 minutes.
- Make the rice mixture: Soak glutinous rice in water for 4-5 hours or overnight. Drain the rice and mix it with finely chopped pandan leaves or pandan extract for color and flavor.
- Cook the pork: In a pan, cook the sliced pork belly with salt, sugar, and black pepper until it’s well-cooked and flavorful. This should take about 10-15 minutes on medium heat.
- Prepare the banana leaves: Soften banana leaves by briefly passing them over a flame or steaming them, then cut them into rectangular pieces.
- Assemble: Take a piece of banana leaf and lay it flat. Add a layer of glutinous rice (about 2 tablespoons), followed by a layer of mung beans (approximately 1 tablespoon), and then a few pieces of cooked pork. Top with another layer of glutinous rice to cover everything.
- Wrap it up: Fold the banana leaf closely around the filling, ensuring it is completely sealed. You can tie it with kitchen twine if necessary.
- Steam the cakes: Place the wrapped Banh Khuc in a steamer and cook for about 30-40 minutes. Make sure to check the water level in the steamer to prevent it from drying out.
- Serve: Once cooked, unwrapping the Banh Khuc reveals its beautiful layers. Serve warm as a snack or appetizer!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 250 | 12% |
| Protein | 7g | 14% |
| Carbohydrates | 45g | 15% |
| Fats | 6g | 9% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sodium | 200mg | 9% |
Tips and Tricks
- Experiment with fillings: You can try adding different ingredients like mushrooms or shrimps to customize your Banh Khuc.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter taste, feel free to add a bit more sugar to the mung beans.
- Watch the steaming time: Ensure you don’t over-steam the cakes; they should be firm but moist.
- Avoid banana leaf tears: Make sure to handle banana leaves with care while wrapping to avoid any tears.
FAQs
What is Banh Khuc?
Banh Khuc is a traditional Vietnamese cake made from glutinous rice, mung beans, and pork, wrapped in banana leaves.
When is Banh Khuc typically eaten?
This dish is often enjoyed during festivals and special occasions, but it makes a great snack any time!
Can I use regular rice instead of glutinous rice?
No, for the best texture, it’s important to use glutinous rice in this recipe.
What can I substitute for pork?
You can use mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian version of Banh Khuc.
How do I store leftover Banh Khuc?
Store Banh Khuc in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them by steaming.
Can I freeze Banh Khuc?
Yes! You can freeze them before or after cooking. Just make sure they are wrapped tightly in banana leaves.
What should I serve with Banh Khuc?
Banh Khuc can be served on its own, but it pairs well with pickled vegetables.
Is Banh Khuc gluten-free?
Yes, as it is made with glutinous rice and other naturally gluten-free ingredients, Banh Khuc is suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Can I use dried pandan leaves instead of fresh?
Yes, dried pandan leaves can be used, but fresh will provide a stronger aroma and flavor.
Why is my Banh Khuc not holding its shape?
This could be due to over-steaming or using too much water when cooking the glutinous rice. Ensure you follow the steps carefully.
How can I make Banh Khuc spicier?
Add some chopped chili or chili powder when cooking the pork for an extra kick!
Can I make Banh Khuc without banana leaves?
While banana leaves enhance the flavor and presentation, you can use parchment paper as a substitute if necessary.
Is Banh Khuc popular in all parts of Vietnam?
Banh Khuc is particularly popular in the northern regions of Vietnam, but it is loved by people across the country.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to make Banh Khuc, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start cooking! This delicious dish is not just food; it’s a piece of Vietnamese culture that you can enjoy and share with your family and friends. Happy cooking!
