Ingredients

1/4 cup yellow split mung beans , dried and peeled
1 cup unsweetened coconut milk
6 tablespoons water
1 cup rice flour
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon turmeric
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup fish sauce
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
1/4 teaspoon garlic , minced
1/4 teaspoon Thai chile , diced
1/4 lb boneless pork shoulder , trimmed
3/4 lb medium shrimp , in shell
2 tablespoons fish sauce
1 teaspoon packed light brown sugar
1 stalk fresh lemongrass , stalk trimmed
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 cup onion , sliced thin
1 cup mushroom , sliced thin
1 tablespoon garlic , minced
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
4 teaspoons vegetable oil
6 ounces mung-bean mixed sprouts
1/4 cup scallion , chopped
1 head green lettuce
1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
1/2 cup fresh basil leaf
1/2 cup fresh cilantro stem
lime wedge
Vietnamese cuisine is one of the most diverse and colorful in the world, with a myriad of flavors, textures, and ingredients that reflect the country's rich cultural heritage and geographical location. The Vietnamese Shrimp and Pork Crepes, also known as Banh Xeo, are a classic street food item that originated in Southern Vietnam and quickly spread to neighboring countries. The crepe wrappers are made from rice flour, mung beans, and coconut milk, giving them a light and crispy texture that contrasts with the hearty filling of shrimp, pork, mixed sprouts, and scallions. The dipping sauce is a perfect blend of sour, sweet, and spicy, which complements the savory flavors of the crepes. This dish is usually eaten by hand, wrapped in lettuce leaves and fresh herbs, creating a DIY lettuce wrap experience that adds a refreshing crunch and a burst of aroma to every bite. Whether you are a fan of Southeast Asian cuisine or new to the game, the Vietnamese Shrimp and Pork Crepes are a must-try dish that will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise.

Instructions

1.Rinse and soak the mung beans in water for 2 hours, then drain and blend together with the coconut milk and water until smooth
2.In a mixing bowl, whisk together the rice flour, sugar, turmeric, salt and 1 and 1/2 cups of water, then mix in the blended mung bean mixture
3.For the dipping sauce: in a small mixing bowl, combine the fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, garlic, and Thai chile to make a tangy and spicy dip
4.For the filling: start by grilling the pork shoulder and shrimp, seasoned with fish sauce, brown sugar and lemongrass, then chop them into small pieces and set aside
5.Heat up the vegetable oil in a skillet and saute the sliced onions, mushrooms, garlic, and black pepper until fragrant
6.Pour a ladle of the batter into the pan and swirl it around to make a thin pancake, then place a few shrimp and pork pieces and top with mixed sprouts and scallions
7.Gently fold the crepe in half and cook for another minute
8.Serve hot with lettuce, mint, basil, cilantro and a lime wedge on the side

PROS

These crepes are packed with protein and fiber from the shrimp, pork, mung beans and sprouts, making them a nutritious and filling meal that will satisfy your appetite.

The flavors are bold and savory, with hints of coconut, turmeric, lemongrass, and fresh herbs, creating a complex profile that is both refreshing and comforting.

They are also gluten-free and dairy-free, so they are suitable for people with dietary restrictions.

CONS

The preparation for this recipe can be time-consuming and require more advanced cooking skills, especially when it comes to creating the thin and crispy crepe wrappers
The ingredient list might be lengthy and hard to find in regular grocery stores

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Vietnamese cuisine is known for its emphasis on fresh herbs and vegetables, making it a healthy and balanced diet option overall.
The combination of shrimp and pork provides an excellent source of high-quality protein, with the added benefits of vitamins B12, E, and zinc for immune function and energy metabolism.
The mung beans are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and plant-based protein, making them a smart choice for vegetarians or vegans.
The lemongrass, garlic, and chili can help stimulate digestion and boost immune function, while the fresh herbs can provide vitamins A and C for skin health and immunity.
Overall, this dish is a nutritious and flavorful way to experience the vibrant culinary scene of Southern Asia.

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