bothuat

Bothuat is a type of traditional Vietnamese food, often described as a savory crepe or pancake. It is made from a batter of rice flour, sometimes mixed with mung bean flour and coconut milk, which gives it a slightly sweet and creamy flavor. The batter is poured thinly onto a hot, oiled griddle and cooked until it becomes crispy and golden brown, often with a delicate lacy texture.

The preparation of bothuat typically involves several steps. The rice flour is soaked and then ground, often with water, to create the batter. Seasonings like salt and pepper are added. For the cooking process, a special pan, sometimes a cast-iron skillet, is heated. The batter is then ladled into the pan and swirled to form a thin, even layer. As it cooks, the edges may become slightly browned and crisp.

Bothuat is commonly filled with ingredients such as shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and sometimes mushrooms or onions. Once the filling is added, the crepe is often folded in half. It is typically served hot, often with a dipping sauce. This sauce is usually a nuoc cham-based concoction, a Vietnamese condiment made from fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, garlic, and chili. Bothuat is a popular street food and restaurant dish in Vietnam, enjoyed for its satisfying texture and savory flavors.