Bánh

Bánh is a term used in Vietnamese cuisine to refer to a wide variety of bread, cake, pastry, and sandwich-like foods. The term is equivalent to the English word "cake", and can be used to refer to foods made from a variety of ingredients and in a variety of cooking styles.

Etymology

The word "bánh" is derived from the Chinese word "bǐng", which means "round flat cake". In Vietnamese, the term is used more broadly to refer to a wide variety of baked and steamed foods.

Types of Bánh

There are many different types of bánh, each with its own unique ingredients and preparation methods. Some of the most popular types include:

• Bánh mì: A Vietnamese sandwich that typically includes a combination of meats, vegetables, and condiments. The term "bánh mì" is also used to refer to the type of bread used to make the sandwich, which is a light, crispy baguette.

• Bánh xèo: A crispy, stuffed pancake that is often filled with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts. The name "bánh xèo" means "sizzling cake", which refers to the sound the batter makes when it is poured into the hot skillet.

• Bánh bao: A type of steamed bun that is often filled with pork or other meats. The name "bánh bao" means "wrapping cake", which refers to the way the bun is wrapped around the filling.

• Bánh cuốn: A type of rolled cake that is made from a thin, wide sheet of steamed fermented rice batter filled with a mixture of cooked seasoned ground pork, minced wood ear mushroom, and minced shallots.

Cultural Significance

Bánh plays a significant role in Vietnamese culture and cuisine. Many types of bánh are traditionally made for special occasions and festivals, such as Tết (Vietnamese New Year) and Mid-Autumn Festival. For example, Bánh chưng and Bánh giò are traditionally made for Tết, while Bánh dày is often made for the Mid-Autumn Festival.

See Also

• Vietnamese cuisine
• List of Vietnamese dishes
• List of bánh dishes