Grilled Rice Paper (Bánh Tráng Nướng): A Flavorful Vietnamese Street Food You Can Make at Home

If you’ve ever visited Vietnam or explored Vietnamese street food, then you’ve likely encountered Grilled Rice Paper, also known as Bánh Tráng Nướng. This crispy, savory snack is one of Vietnam’s most beloved street foods, and it’s quickly gaining popularity outside of the country as well. With its smoky, crispy texture and a variety of toppings that can be tailored to suit your taste, Bánh Tráng Nướng is a must-try dish for anyone looking to explore the diverse world of Vietnamese cuisine.

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Grilled Rice Paper (Bánh Tráng Nướng), from its origins to how you can easily recreate this delightful dish at home.

What is Grilled Rice Paper (Bánh Tráng Nướng)?

Grilled Rice Paper (Bánh Tráng Nướng) is a popular Vietnamese street food made by grilling rice paper (also known as bánh tráng) until it becomes crispy, then topping it with a variety of savory ingredients. The dish is sometimes compared to a Vietnamese-style pizza because of its crispy base and the variety of toppings it can have, though its flavor profile is uniquely Vietnamese.

The most common toppings for Bánh Tráng Nướng include a combination of ingredients like eggs, dried shrimp, pork, scallions, and a variety of sauces that bring a perfect balance of umami, sweetness, and saltiness. The grilled rice paper becomes slightly charred on the edges, adding a smoky flavor that complements the fresh toppings.

A Brief History of Bánh Tráng Nướng

The origins of Bánh Tráng Nướng can be traced back to the southern regions of Vietnam, where rice paper has been a staple in the cuisine for centuries. Traditionally, Bánh Tráng was used in dishes like spring rolls, but over time, street vendors began experimenting with grilling the rice paper, adding a variety of toppings, and creating a new form of snack food that could be eaten on the go.

Bánh Tráng Nướng gained immense popularity in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), where street vendors started offering it at local markets, parks, and street corners. Its simplicity, crunch, and bold flavors made it an instant hit, and today, it’s not just a street snack in Vietnam, but a dish that you can find at many Vietnamese restaurants worldwide.

Ingredients You Need for Grilled Rice Paper (Bánh Tráng Nướng)

Making Bánh Tráng Nướng at home is easy, and you can customize the toppings according to your preferences. Here’s a list of basic ingredients that you’ll need to get started:

1. Rice Paper (Bánh Tráng)

The base of Bánh Tráng Nướng is, of course, the rice paper. You can find bánh tráng at most Asian supermarkets or online. The rice paper used for grilling is typically a bit thicker and larger than the ones used for spring rolls, which gives it the perfect texture for grilling.

2. Eggs

Eggs are a common topping for grilled rice paper. The egg is often cracked directly onto the rice paper as it grills, and it cooks on top of the paper, adding richness and a soft texture to contrast the crispiness of the rice paper.

3. Dried Shrimp

Small, dried shrimp are often sprinkled on top of the rice paper for a burst of umami flavor. These tiny shrimp are full of flavor, and their crunchy texture adds a delightful contrast to the soft egg and crispy rice paper.

4. Pork (Optional)

Some versions of Bánh Tráng Nướng use shredded pork or even ground pork. The pork is either sprinkled on top of the rice paper or incorporated into a sauce that is spread over it before grilling.

5. Scallions and Green Onions

Sliced scallions or green onions are commonly added to enhance the flavor and provide a bit of fresh, herbal sharpness that cuts through the richness of the egg and pork.

6. Sauces

Sauces are essential for bringing everything together. Vietnamese fish sauce (nước mắm) is commonly drizzled over the grilled rice paper for that signature salty, umami flavor. Some variations also use hoisin sauce, chili sauce, or mayonnaise to add a creamy texture and additional depth of flavor.

7. Cheese (Optional)

While not traditional, some modern variations of Bánh Tráng Nướng include a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top, giving the dish a creamy, melty layer that appeals to those who like fusion dishes.

8. Other Toppings (Optional)

You can get creative with your toppings! Here are a few popular additions:

• Crispy shallots: Adds a sweet and crispy texture.
• Pork floss (chà bông): A popular topping that adds a savory, fluffy texture.
• Chili peppers: For those who enjoy some heat.

How to Make Grilled Rice Paper (Bánh Tráng Nướng) at Home

Making Bánh Tráng Nướng at home is surprisingly simple and requires just a few ingredients. Here’s a step-by-step guide to recreating this street food classic in your own kitchen.

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before you begin grilling, prepare all of your ingredients:

• Rice Paper: Lay out one or two sheets of rice paper on a flat surface.
• Eggs: Crack an egg into a small bowl. You’ll need one egg per rice paper.
• Shrimp and Pork: If using dried shrimp or shredded pork, have these ready to sprinkle over the rice paper.
• Scallions: Slice your scallions into thin pieces.
• Sauces: Have your fish sauce, chili sauce, and hoisin sauce on hand.

Step 2: Preheat Your Grill or Skillet

While traditional Bánh Tráng Nướng is made over an open flame, you can use a grill pan or even a regular skillet if you don’t have access to a grill. Preheat the grill or skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with oil or butter.

Step 3: Grill the Rice Paper

Place the rice paper onto the grill or skillet. Let it grill for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until it begins to puff up and becomes golden and crispy.

Step 4: Add the Toppings

Once the rice paper is crispy, it’s time to add the toppings:

• Crack an egg directly onto the rice paper.
• Sprinkle dried shrimp, shredded pork, and green onions on top of the egg.
• Optionally, you can drizzle some mayonnaise, hoisin sauce, or chili sauce at this point.
• Let the rice paper cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the egg to set and the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once the egg is cooked through and the rice paper is crisp, remove it from the grill. Optionally, you can drizzle some fish sauce on top for extra flavor, or sprinkle crispy shallots and fresh cilantro.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Cut the Bánh Tráng Nướng into wedges or serve it whole as a snack or appetizer. Enjoy the crispiness, the richness of the egg, and the umami from the shrimp and fish sauce.

Tips for the Best Grilled Rice Paper (Bánh Tráng Nướng)

To elevate your homemade Bánh Tráng Nướng, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Don’t overcook the rice paper: You want the rice paper to become crispy without burning it. Keep a close eye on it while grilling.
• Use high-quality fish sauce: Fish sauce is a key ingredient in many Vietnamese dishes, and it can really make or break the flavor of your Bánh Tráng Nướng. Opt for a high-quality brand for the best results.
• Add your favorite toppings: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings. Whether it’s adding cheese, more vegetables, or a different protein, the possibilities are endless.
• Grill on an open flame: For the best authentic flavor, grill your Bánh Tráng Nướng over an open flame. The slight char adds a unique smoky taste that you can’t replicate with a skillet.

Why You Should Try Grilled Rice Paper (Bánh Tráng Nướng)

Grilled Rice Paper (Bánh Tráng Nướng) is a fun, flavorful dish that combines crispy textures, savory toppings, and bold Vietnamese flavors. Whether you’re looking to try something new or bring a piece of Vietnamese street food culture to your kitchen, Bánh Tráng Nướng offers a delicious and customizable snack for any occasion.

With minimal ingredients, easy preparation, and endless possibilities for customization, this dish is perfect for casual get-togethers, family meals, or as an appetizer before dinner. Plus, the crispy, golden rice paper is sure to impress anyone you serve it to.

Health Benefits of Bánh Tráng Nướng

While Bánh Tráng Nướng is definitely an indulgent treat, it’s also made with wholesome ingredients that offer some health benefits:

• Rice paper is low in calories and gluten-free, making it a great alternative to traditional

bread-based snacks.

• Eggs provide a good source of protein and essential vitamins.
• Dried shrimp is high in protein and low in fat, making it a great addition to your diet.

With a balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, Bánh Tráng Nướng can be part of a healthy diet when enjoyed in moderation.