Vietnamese Sesame Balls (Banh Cam) Made Easy

Have you ever sunk your teeth into a perfectly crisp, golden-brown Vietnamese sesame ball, only to be met with a burst of sweet, chewy goodness inside? These delightful treats, known as Banh Cam in Vietnamese, are a beloved street food staple and a perfect example of the artistry found in Vietnamese cuisine. If you’re yearning for an authentic Banh Cam experience, but haven’t found the perfect recipe, look no further! This guide will not only show you how to make Vietnamese sesame balls from the comfort of your own kitchen, but also highlight how Com Com Restaurant in London captures the true essence of this classic treat.

What is the story behind Vietnamese Sesame Balls and Com Com Restaurant?

Banh Cam, meaning “orange cake” in Vietnamese, isn’t actually a cake at all! These deep-fried balls of glutinous rice flour, filled with sweet mung bean paste and coated in sesame seeds, are believed to have originated in Southern China before making their way to Vietnam. At Com Com Restaurant, we honour this rich history by using traditional recipes passed down through generations, ensuring each Banh Cam delivers an authentic taste of Vietnam. We believe that food tells a story, and our Banh Cam whispers tales of bustling street markets and the comforting warmth of family gatherings.

Which ingredients and tools do I need to make Vietnamese Sesame Balls at home, inspired by Com Com Restaurant?

Com Com Restaurant believes in using the freshest, highest-quality ingredients. To recreate a similar experience at home, gather these essential components: glutinous rice flour, mung bean paste (pre-made or homemade), sesame seeds, sugar, coconut milk, and vegetable oil for frying. You’ll also need a wok or deep fryer, a mixing bowl, and a slotted spoon.

Vietnamese Sesame Balls Ingredients

How can I make Vietnamese Sesame Balls (Banh Cam) at home for an experience reminiscent of Com Com Restaurant?

1. Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine glutinous rice flour, sugar, and coconut milk. Knead until a smooth, pliable dough forms. This dough should be slightly sticky but not too wet.
2. Shape the Balls: Divide the dough into small portions. Flatten each portion and place a spoonful of mung bean paste in the center. Carefully seal the dough around the filling, forming a ball.
3. Coat with Sesame Seeds: Roll each ball in sesame seeds, ensuring they are fully coated. Gently press the seeds into the dough so they adhere well during frying.
4. Fry to Golden Perfection: Heat vegetable oil in a wok or deep fryer to medium-high heat. Carefully drop the sesame balls into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown and crispy, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.
5. Drain and Serve: Remove the Banh Cam from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm and enjoy!

Frying Vietnamese Sesame Balls

What are some tips and variations for making Vietnamese Sesame Balls even better, drawing inspiration from Com Com Restaurant?

At Com Com Restaurant, we sometimes add a pinch of salt to the dough for a subtle savoury contrast to the sweetness. For a richer flavour, try toasting the sesame seeds before coating the balls. You can also experiment with different fillings, such as sweet potato paste or even a savoury mixture of minced pork and vegetables.

What are the nutritional benefits of enjoying Vietnamese Sesame Balls like those at Com Com Restaurant?

While Banh Cam is undeniably a treat, it does offer some nutritional value. Glutinous rice is a good source of carbohydrates for energy, and mung beans are packed with protein and fiber. Sesame seeds contribute healthy fats and minerals. Of course, moderation is key, especially with fried foods.

Enjoying Vietnamese Sesame Balls at Com Com Restaurant

How can I best enjoy and pair dishes at Com Com Restaurant, including Vietnamese Sesame Balls?

Banh Cam is a fantastic starter or dessert. At Com Com Restaurant, you can pair it with a refreshing glass of iced tea or a traditional Vietnamese coffee. For a complete meal, try our delicious Pho, Bun Cha, or any of our other authentic Vietnamese dishes. The diverse menu at Com Com offers a culinary journey through Vietnam, guaranteeing a memorable dining experience. Visit us at 183-185 Battersea Park Rd, London SW11 4LB, or call us at 020 7720 9928. We’re open every day from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM. We also offer delivery, so you can enjoy the taste of Vietnam from the comfort of your own home!

Frequently Asked Questions about Vietnamese Sesame Balls at Com Com Restaurant

Q: Does Com Com Restaurant offer vegetarian versions of Banh Cam?

A: While our traditional Banh Cam contains mung bean paste, we can often accommodate requests for variations without fillings, making them suitable for some vegetarian diets. Please inquire with your server.

Q: What makes Com Com Restaurant’s Banh Cam special?

A: We use high-quality ingredients and time-honoured recipes to create Banh Cam that is both crispy and chewy, with a perfect balance of sweetness.

Q: Can I order Banh Cam for takeaway from Com Com Restaurant?

A: Absolutely! You can order Banh Cam and many other dishes for takeaway, either by phone or in person.

Conclusion

Vietnamese Sesame Balls (Banh Cam) are a true testament to the ingenuity and deliciousness of Vietnamese street food. By following these simple steps, you can bring a taste of Vietnam into your own kitchen. However, for a truly authentic and unforgettable experience, we invite you to visit Com Com Restaurant in London. We are passionate about sharing the rich culinary heritage of Vietnam, and our Banh Cam, made with love and tradition, is just one example of the delightful flavours awaiting you. So, come and experience the magic of Vietnamese cuisine at Com Com Restaurant – we guarantee you won’t be disappointed!