Bánh Đậu Xanh Chiên Giòn is a traditional Vietnamese snack made from mung beans (known as đậu xanh in Vietnamese) that is beloved for its crispy exterior and smooth, sweet filling. This delicious fried cake combines the earthy, slightly sweet taste of mung beans with the crispy golden crust that makes it irresistible to anyone who tries it. Whether served as a snack, dessert, or even as a part of a festive meal, Bánh Đậu Xanh Chiên Giòn is a perfect example of how Vietnamese cuisine blends simple ingredients into an exceptional culinary experience.

In this article, we will explore the origins, ingredients, preparation process, and the significance of Bánh Đậu Xanh Chiên Giòn in Vietnamese culture. We’ll also discuss some variations of the recipe, tips for making the perfect fried green bean cake at home, and why this treat continues to captivate food lovers across the world.

What is Bánh Đậu Xanh Chiên Giòn?

Bánh Đậu Xanh Chiên Giòn is a popular Vietnamese snack made from mung beans, sugar, and a variety of other ingredients that are deep-fried to create a crispy, golden exterior. The mung beans are first cooked, mashed, and then sweetened, resulting in a smooth and creamy filling. This filling is then wrapped in a thin layer of dough and fried until it forms a crunchy, golden crust. The result is a satisfying combination of textures—the soft and smooth center with the crispy shell on the outside.

This dish is often sold at street food stalls and markets across Vietnam, particularly during the Tet holiday (Lunar New Year), although it is enjoyed year-round. Its simplicity and flavor have made it a beloved snack for generations of Vietnamese people. In addition to its popularity in Vietnam, Bánh Đậu Xanh Chiên Giòn has found a place in Vietnamese communities worldwide, allowing people to experience a taste of Vietnam no matter where they live.

The Origins and Cultural Significance of Bánh Đậu Xanh Chiên Giòn

Mung beans have been a staple ingredient in Vietnamese cooking for centuries. They are used in a variety of savory and sweet dishes, such as soups, stews, and desserts. In particular, mung beans hold a special place in Vietnamese culture, as they are symbolic of prosperity, good health, and good fortune. During the Tet holiday, dishes made with mung beans, including Bánh Đậu Xanh, are often consumed to ensure a prosperous year ahead.

The tradition of making Bánh Đậu Xanh Chiên Giòn likely dates back to the early 20th century when street food culture began to thrive in Vietnam. The dish was initially a humble treat enjoyed by everyday people, but its popularity grew as it was passed down through generations. Today, Bánh Đậu Xanh Chiên Giòn is a well-loved snack that represents the heart of Vietnamese culinary traditions.

The significance of Bánh Đậu Xanh Chiên Giòn extends beyond its cultural importance—it is a perfect example of how Vietnamese cuisine embraces simplicity and balance. The dish showcases the ability of Vietnamese chefs to transform humble ingredients like mung beans into a flavorful and satisfying snack. Whether eaten as part of a family gathering or enjoyed on the go, Bánh Đậu Xanh Chiên Giòn carries with it the rich history and traditions of Vietnam.

Ingredients for Bánh Đậu Xanh Chiên Giòn

To make Bánh Đậu Xanh Chiên Giòn, you will need a few key ingredients. The most important ingredients are mung beans, which provide the main filling, and sugar, which gives the dish its sweetness. Other ingredients are used to create the dough that encases the mung bean filling and to give the fried cake its crispy texture. Here’s a closer look at the essential ingredients for making Bánh Đậu Xanh Chiên Giòn:

For the Mung Bean Filling:

• Mung beans (đậu xanh): The primary ingredient in the filling. Mung beans are small, oval-shaped legumes that are typically yellow when peeled and are used in a wide variety of Vietnamese desserts.
• Sugar: Provides sweetness to balance the earthy flavor of the mung beans. Depending on personal preference, you can use white sugar, brown sugar, or even coconut sugar.
• Coconut milk: Adds richness and depth to the filling, enhancing the natural sweetness of the mung beans.
• Salt: A pinch of salt helps to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavor of the mung beans.
• Vanilla or pandan extract (optional): For additional flavor, some people add a small amount of vanilla or pandan extract to the filling.

For the Dough:

• Rice flour: Forms the base of the dough, providing structure and a light texture.
• All-purpose flour: Adds texture and helps to create a slightly chewy dough.
• Water: Needed to bring the dough together and give it the right consistency.
• Sugar: A small amount of sugar is added to give the dough a slight sweetness that complements the filling.
• Salt: Adds flavor to the dough and helps balance out the sweetness of the filling.
• Oil: Vegetable oil is used to fry the cakes and create the crispy, golden exterior.

How to Make Bánh Đậu Xanh Chiên Giòn

Making Bánh Đậu Xanh Chiên Giòn involves a few key steps, including preparing the mung bean filling, making the dough, assembling the cakes, and frying them to crispy perfection. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this delicious snack:

Step 1: Prepare the Mung Bean Filling

1. Cook the mung beans: Rinse the mung beans thoroughly and place them in a pot. Cover them with water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for about 20-30 minutes, or until the beans are soft and tender. Drain any excess water and let the beans cool.
2. Mash the beans: Once the mung beans are cool, mash them using a potato masher or a food processor until smooth. If you want a smoother texture, you can blend the beans until they reach a paste-like consistency.
3. Add the sugar and coconut milk: In a bowl, mix the mashed mung beans with sugar, coconut milk, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine, ensuring that the sugar dissolves completely. You can add a few drops of vanilla or pandan extract for extra flavor if you like.
4. Set the filling aside: Once the filling is smooth and well-mixed, set it aside to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

1. Combine the flours: In a mixing bowl, combine the rice flour, all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt. Stir to evenly distribute the ingredients.
2. Add water: Gradually add water to the flour mixture, a little at a time, stirring to form a smooth, soft dough. The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it’s too dry, add a bit more water; if it’s too wet, add a little more flour.
3. Knead the dough: Knead the dough for a few minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rest for 15-20 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Bánh Đậu Xanh Chiên Giòn

1. Divide the dough: After the dough has rested, divide it into small balls (about the size of a walnut).
2. Flatten the dough: Roll each ball of dough into a small disc, about 2-3 inches in diameter.
3. Fill the dough: Place a spoonful of the mung bean filling in the center of each disc. Be careful not to overfill it, as the filling should not spill out during frying.
4. Seal the cakes: Carefully fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pinching the sides together to form a ball or half-moon shape. Make sure the filling is securely enclosed within the dough.

Step 4: Fry the Cakes

1. Heat the oil: Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium heat. The oil should be deep enough to submerge the cakes completely.
2. Fry the cakes: Gently place the assembled cakes into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the cakes for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to flip the cakes gently and remove them from the oil once they are cooked.
3. Drain the excess oil: Place the fried cakes on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Serving Suggestions

Bánh Đậu Xanh Chiên Giòn can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas for serving:

• With hot tea: The crispy texture of the cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot tea, making it a perfect snack for a relaxing afternoon.
• As part of a meal: Serve Bánh Đậu Xanh Chiên Giòn alongside other Vietnamese dishes like pho, rice paper rolls, or even a refreshing salad.
• For special occasions: Offer these fried mung bean cakes as a treat during holidays or family gatherings, adding a touch of sweetness to the celebration.

Conclusion

Bánh Đậu Xanh Chiên Giòn is a delicious and iconic Vietnamese treat that showcases the versatility of mung beans in Vietnamese cooking. With its crispy

, golden exterior and soft, sweet filling, this snack is loved by people of all ages. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Vietnamese cuisine or just looking to try something new, making Bánh Đậu Xanh Chiên Giòn at home is a great way to explore the flavors and textures that make Vietnamese cuisine so special. Enjoy the simplicity and beauty of this beloved dish as part of your next meal or celebration.