Banh Cam, also known as Vietnamese Sesame Balls, is a beloved traditional snack that captures the hearts of many with its delightful combination of flavors and textures. These golden, crispy treats are made from glutinous rice flour, filled with a sweet mung bean paste, and coated with sesame seeds, making them a perfect fit for both casual snacking and festive celebrations. Their crispy exterior and soft, chewy interior create a satisfying contrast that keeps people coming back for more. Popular throughout Vietnam and in various Asian communities, Banh Cam is often enjoyed during Lunar New Year festivities and other special occasions. As one food enthusiast notes, Banh Cam embodies the harmony of taste and tradition that Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated for.” Whether you’re a local or a curious food lover, these flavorful balls are a must-try!
Banh Cam (Vietnamese Sesame Balls)
Banh Cam is a beloved Vietnamese street food that features a crispy, golden exterior and a sweet, sticky filling. These deep-fried treats are made from glutinous rice flour and are traditionally filled with mung bean paste or black sesame. The outer layer is rolled in sesame seeds before frying, giving it a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Banh Cam is often enjoyed as a snack or dessert and holds a special place in Vietnamese culture, representing the joy of sharing food with loved ones.
History
The history of Banh Cam dates back to ancient times in Vietnam, where it was influenced by both Chinese and local culinary traditions. The name “Banh Cam” translates to “orange cake,” which comes from its round shape resembling an orange. Traditionally, these sesame balls were made for special occasions and festivals. Over the years, they have become widely popular and are now a staple at street food stalls and markets, enjoyed by people of all ages.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Glutinous rice flour | 200 g |
| Water | 150 ml |
| Mung bean paste | 100 g |
| Sugar | 50 g |
| Sesame seeds | 50 g |
| Vegetable oil (for frying) | as needed |
Preparation Steps
- Prepare the Mung Bean Paste:
- Soak 100 g of mung beans in water for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Drain the soaked beans and steam them for about 20 minutes until soft.
- Mash the cooked beans and mix with 50 g of sugar until smooth. Allow to cool.
- Make the Dough:
- In a mixing bowl, combine 200 g of glutinous rice flour with 150 ml of water. Mix until it forms a smooth dough.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out.
- Shape the Balls:
- Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
- Flatten each ball in your palm and place a small amount of mung bean paste in the center.
- Carefully wrap the dough around the filling and roll it between your palms to form a smooth, round ball.
- Coat with Sesame Seeds:
- Spread 50 g of sesame seeds on a flat surface.
- Roll each dough ball in the sesame seeds until fully coated.
- Fry the Banh Cam:
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the sesame balls in small batches. Fry until they turn golden brown, about 4-5 minutes.
- Remove the balls from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve:
- Allow the Banh Cam to cool slightly, then serve warm. Enjoy as a snack or dessert!
With its rich history and delightful taste, Banh Cam is a perfect representation of Vietnamese culinary culture. Following these simple steps, you can recreate this delightful snack at home and share a piece of Vietnamese heritage with your friends and family.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Banh Cam?
Banh Cam are traditional Vietnamese sesame balls made with glutinous rice flour and filled with sweetened mung bean paste.
How are Banh Cam made?
They are made by mixing glutinous rice flour with water to form a dough, filling it with mung bean paste, and then deep-frying it until golden brown.
What is the filling of Banh Cam?
The filling typically consists of sweetened mung bean paste, although some variations may use other ingredients like red bean paste or coconut.
Are Banh Cam gluten-free?
No, Banh Cam contains glutinous rice flour, which is not gluten-free; it is suitable for those who can tolerate gluten-free alternatives.
How do you serve Banh Cam?
Banh Cam is often served as a snack or dessert, and it is best enjoyed fresh and warm with a cup of tea.
Can Banh Cam be made in advance?
While you can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time, it’s best to fry them just before serving for optimal taste and texture.
Where can I buy Banh Cam?
You can find Banh Cam at Vietnamese restaurants, bakeries, or specialty Asian grocery stores.
Are Banh Cam vegan?
Yes, Banh Cam are typically vegan as they are made with plant-based ingredients, but always check specific recipes for variations.
What is the texture of Banh Cam?
Banh Cam have a crispy outer layer and a chewy interior, with a delightful contrast of sweetness from the filling.
How many calories are in Banh Cam?
The calorie content can vary, but a typical Banh Cam contains about 100-150 calories per ball, depending on the size and ingredients.
Can I make Banh Cam in an air fryer?
Yes, you can use an air fryer to make Banh Cam, though the texture may be slightly different compared to deep frying.
What is the origin of Banh Cam?
Banh Cam is believed to have originated from China, but it has become a popular snack in Vietnam with local adaptations.
What can I pair with Banh Cam?
They are commonly paired with jasmine tea or Vietnamese coffee for a delightful snack experience.
Are there any variations of Banh Cam?
Yes, variations include different fillings such as chocolate, peanut paste, or even fruit, catering to diverse tastes.
