How to Make Vietnamese Pandan Waffles (Banh Kep La Dua)

Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, crispy waffle infused with the sweet, aromatic fragrance of pandan. This isn’t your average breakfast waffle; this is Banh Kep La Dua, a beloved Vietnamese street food treat that’s as delightful as it is easy to make. Intrigued? Let Com Com Restaurant be your guide to this culinary adventure. We’ll unlock the secrets to making authentic Banh Kep La Dua and transport you to the vibrant streets of Vietnam, right here in London.

The Story of Banh Kep La Dua at Com Com Restaurant

Banh Kep La Dua holds a special place in Vietnamese hearts. These delicate waffles, cooked to crispy perfection in distinctive little waffle irons, are more than just a snack; they’re a symbol of community and shared enjoyment. At Com Com Restaurant, we’re passionate about sharing this piece of Vietnamese culture with you. We source the finest ingredients, including fresh pandan leaves, to ensure an authentic taste that honors tradition. What does Banh Kep La Dua mean to us? It’s a taste of home, a reminder of family gatherings, and a testament to the simple joy of good food.

Fresh Pandan Waffles at Com Com Restaurant

Gathering Your Ingredients: A Trip to the Vietnamese Market

Creating Banh Kep La Dua at home is simpler than you might think! Let’s start with the ingredients, many of which you can find at your local Asian market, adding to the adventure. If you’re in London, pop into any Vietnamese grocery store and you’ll be immersed in a world of exciting flavors. Com Com Restaurant sources similar ingredients, ensuring the freshest and most authentic experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Pandan Leaves: The star of the show! These fragrant leaves give the waffles their signature aroma and vibrant green hue.
• Rice Flour: Provides a light, crispy texture.
• Tapioca Starch: Adds a chewy element.
• Coconut Milk: Enhances the sweetness and richness.
• Sugar: Just a touch for sweetness.
• Eggs: Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
• Baking Powder: Creates a light and airy waffle.
• Salt: A pinch to balance the sweetness.

Making Banh Kep La Dua: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps to create your own Vietnamese pandan waffles:

1. Blend the Pandan: Blend fresh pandan leaves with water to create a vibrant green pandan juice.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together rice flour, tapioca starch, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together coconut milk, eggs, and the extracted pandan juice.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, whisking until just combined. Don’t overmix!
5. Heat the Waffle Iron: Preheat your waffle iron. Traditionally, Banh Kep La Dua is made in a special Vietnamese waffle iron, but a regular waffle iron will work just fine.
6. Cook the Waffles: Pour a ladleful of batter onto the hot waffle iron and cook until golden brown and crispy.

Pouring Batter into a Waffle Iron

Tips and Variations: Elevate Your Waffle Game

• Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes onto the warm waffles for added texture and flavor.
• Sweet Dippings: Enjoy your Banh Kep La Dua with a drizzle of condensed milk or a dollop of coconut cream. At Com Com Restaurant, we offer a variety of dipping sauces to complement the waffles’ delicate flavor.
• Savory Options: For a savory twist, try adding shredded coconut, scallions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds to the batter.

Nutritional Benefits: A Healthy Indulgence

Banh Kep La Dua is not only delicious but also offers some nutritional benefits. Rice flour is gluten-free, making it a suitable option for those with gluten sensitivities. Coconut milk is rich in healthy fats and electrolytes. And pandan leaves are known for their antioxidant properties.

Pairing Your Pandan Waffles at Com Com Restaurant

At Com Com Restaurant, we believe in creating a complete culinary experience. Banh Kep La Dua is a delightful starter or a light snack. Pair it with a refreshing Vietnamese iced coffee or a fragrant cup of jasmine tea for a truly authentic experience. Why not try it alongside one of our flavorful pho soups or vermicelli noodle salads for a satisfying and balanced meal?

Pandan Waffles Served with Dipping Sauces

Frequently Asked Questions about Banh Kep La Dua

Q: Where can I find fresh pandan leaves?

A: Pandan leaves are often available at Asian grocery stores or specialty markets. You can also sometimes find them frozen.

Q: Can I make Banh Kep La Dua without a waffle iron?

A: While a waffle iron gives the waffles their characteristic shape and texture, you could try cooking the batter in a lightly oiled pan like a pancake.

Q: What is the best way to store leftover Banh Kep La Dua?

A: Store leftover waffles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat them in a toaster oven or on a dry skillet for a few seconds to restore their crispness.

The Sweet Conclusion: A Taste of Vietnam Awaits

Making Banh Kep La Dua is more than just following a recipe; it’s about connecting with the vibrant culinary heritage of Vietnam. At Com Com Restaurant, we invite you to experience the authentic flavors of this delightful treat, prepared with passion and using the finest ingredients. Come and discover the magic of Banh Kep La Dua at Com Com Restaurant today. We can’t wait to share this taste of Vietnam with you!