Banh Cam Vang, or *Yellow Sesame Ball*, is a beloved Vietnamese dessert that captivates both locals and visitors alike with its delightful taste and texture. This popular treat features a golden, crispy exterior coated in sesame seeds, encasing a soft, chewy glutinous rice flour layer, and often filled with sweetened mung bean paste or red bean paste. Banh Cam Vang is not just a snack; it represents a rich culinary heritage and is often enjoyed during festive occasions or as a street food delicacy. As noted by food enthusiasts, “the unique combination of textures and flavors makes Banh Cam Vang a must-try for anyone exploring Vietnamese cuisine.” Whether enjoyed at bustling markets or homemade in Vietnamese households, this delectable treat continues to gain recognition for its irresistible charm and cultural significance.

Banh Cam Vang (Yellow Sesame Ball)

Banh Cam Vang is a beloved Vietnamese dessert snack, known for its crispy exterior and sweet, chewy filling. Often enjoyed during celebrations and festivals, these sesame balls are made with glutinous rice flour and filled with sweetened mung bean paste, then rolled in sesame seeds and deep-fried until golden brown. The delightful combination of textures and flavors has made Banh Cam Vang a favorite among both locals and tourists alike.

History

The origins of Banh Cam Vang can be traced back to ancient China, where similar desserts are also enjoyed. Over time, the Vietnamese adapted the recipe, incorporating local ingredients and flavors. Banh Cam Vang remains not only a staple in Vietnamese cuisine but also a symbol of prosperity and good fortune, often served during the Lunar New Year and other festive occasions.

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Glutinous rice flour 200 g
Water 120 ml
Mung bean (dried, split) 100 g
Sugar 50 g
Sesame seeds 100 g
Cooking oil for deep frying
Salt 1 pinch

Preparation Steps

  1. Prepare the Mung Bean Filling:

    • Rinse the mung beans under cold water.
    • Soak the mung beans in water for at least 2 hours or overnight.
    • Drain and steam the mung beans for about 20-25 minutes until soft.
    • Mash the steamed mung beans in a bowl, then add sugar and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined.
    • Let the mixture cool, then form into small balls (about 15 g each). Set aside.
  2. Make the Dough:

    • In a mixing bowl, combine glutinous rice flour and water. Mix until a smooth dough forms.
    • If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour until it is manageable.
  3. Assemble the Banh Cam Vang:

    • Divide the dough into small balls (about 25 g each).
    • Flatten each ball and place a mung bean ball in the center.
    • Carefully fold the dough around the filling, pinching the edges to seal. Roll between your palms to form a smooth ball.
  4. Coat with Sesame Seeds:

    • Roll each filled ball in sesame seeds until completely coated.
  5. Fry the Banh Cam Vang:

    • Heat a pot of cooking oil over medium heat.
    • Once the oil is hot, gently add the sesame balls a few at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pot.
    • Fry until they turn a golden yellow color, about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to cook evenly.
    • Using a slotted spoon, remove the sesame balls and drain on paper towels.
  6. Serve and Enjoy:

    • Let the Banh Cam Vang cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Banh Cam Vang?

Banh Cam Vang, or Yellow Sesame Ball, is a popular Vietnamese dessert made from glutinous rice flour, filled with sweet mung bean paste, and coated in sesame seeds.

What are the main ingredients in Banh Cam Vang?

The main ingredients include glutinous rice flour, mung bean paste, water, sugar, and sesame seeds for coating.

How is Banh Cam Vang prepared?

The dough is made from glutinous rice flour, shaped around a filling of mung bean paste, rolled in sesame seeds, and then deep-fried until golden brown.

Is Banh Cam Vang gluten-free?

No, Banh Cam Vang contains glutinous rice flour, which is not gluten-free due to its rice composition.

Can Banh Cam Vang be made vegan?

Yes, Banh Cam Vang is typically vegan as it does not contain any animal products, just flour and mung beans.

What is the texture of Banh Cam Vang?

Banh Cam Vang has a crispy exterior from the fried outer layer and a chewy interior filled with smooth, sweet mung bean paste.

How should Banh Cam Vang be stored?

Store Banh Cam Vang in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Refrigeration can make them chewy.

Where can I buy Banh Cam Vang?

Banh Cam Vang can be found in many Vietnamese restaurants or specialty Asian grocery stores.

How many calories are in Banh Cam Vang?

A typical serving of Banh Cam Vang contains around 150-200 calories, depending on the size and filling.

Is Banh Cam Vang served hot or cold?

Banh Cam Vang is best served warm, which enhances the texture and flavor of the mung bean filling.

Can I freeze Banh Cam Vang?

Yes, you can freeze Banh Cam Vang, but it may alter the texture. It’s best to reheat them in an oven or air fryer for a crispy finish.

Are there variations of Banh Cam Vang?

Yes, variations exist, including different fillings such as red bean paste or sweet coconut, and some recipes may include additional toppings or flavors.

Is Banh Cam Vang glutenous or crispy?

Banh Cam Vang has a crispy outer layer and a chewy inner texture, which comes from the glutinous rice flour used in the dough.

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