Get ready for a flaky pastry heaven with the beloved Vietnamese delicacy, Banh Pate So! This scrumptious snack has a rich history, blending a buttery, crisp crust with a savory pâté filling. Craft the dough, roll it thin, layer it with the pork pâté, then bake until golden. Serve it warm with a tangy dipping sauce for an authentic taste of Vietnamese culture. It's the perfect shareable treat that'll have your family and friends raving. Want to dive deeper into this flaky pastry delight? Keep reading to discover more about its origins and preparation.
Key Takeaways
- Banh Pate So is a traditional Vietnamese pastry with a flaky crust and a savory pâté filling, representing the country's rich culinary heritage.
- The recipe requires careful handling of the delicate pastry dough and the preparation of a smooth, velvety pâté filling using high-quality ingredients.
- The pastry is baked to golden perfection and often served warm with a flavorful dipping sauce, making it a beloved snack or appetizer in Vietnamese cuisine.
- The recipe showcases the art of pastry-making in Vietnamese cuisine and encourages culinary exploration of traditional cooking methods and flavor profiles.
- Homemade Banh Pate So provides a sense of pride and enhances cultural appreciation, leaving a lasting impression on guests and family.
History

Originating in Vietnam, the savory banh pate so has a rich history that dates back centuries. This beloved pastry has been a staple of Vietnamese cuisine for generations, evolving from its humble beginnings as a simple snack to a beloved delicacy enjoyed across the country and around the world.
The name "banh pate so" translates to "small pie with pâté," and it's easy to see why. These flaky, golden-brown pastries are filled with a rich, savory pâté, creating a heavenly flavor combination that's hard to resist. The recipe has been passed down through the ages, with each family adding their own unique twist to the filling or the dough.
Whether served as a quick breakfast, a mid-afternoon snack, or a special treat, banh pate so has become an integral part of Vietnamese culture. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the skill and ingenuity of Vietnamese cooks, who've transformed this humble pastry into a true culinary masterpiece.
Recipe

Banh Pate So is a beloved Vietnamese savory pastry that combines a flaky crust with a rich and creamy pâté filling. This delightful snack or appetizer is a staple in Vietnamese cuisine, offering a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
The key to making authentic Banh Pate So is to start with high-quality ingredients and pay close attention to the preparation process. The delicate pastry dough must be handled with care to achieve the desired flakiness, while the pâté filling requires a delicate touch to ensure a smooth and velvety texture.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/4 cup ice water
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
To prepare the Banh Pate So, begin by making the pastry dough. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, mixing just until the dough comes together.
Shape the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
In a skillet, sauté the ground pork, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the pork is cooked through and the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the fish sauce, black pepper, and broth.
Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed. Allow the pâté filling to cool completely.
Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut out rounds using a 3-inch cookie cutter or biscuit cutter. Place a spoonful of the cooled pâté filling in the center of each round, then fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape.
Crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
When ready to serve, bake the Banh Pate So in a preheated 375°F oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown. Enjoy these delicious Vietnamese treats warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Steps

Grab your rolling pin and get ready to create some delectable Vietnamese banh pate so!
Start by making the dough with a mix of flour, butter, and water. Then, roll out the dough into thin, even sheets.
Next, layer the dough with the savory pâté filling. Finally, pop the assembled pastries into the oven and bake until they're golden brown.
Serve these warm delights with a tasty dipping sauce for the ultimate Vietnamese treat!
Step 1. Make Dough Using Flour, Butter, Water

With a few simple ingredients, you can create the dough that forms the foundation of the beloved Vietnamese Banh Pate So. Start by gathering your flour, butter, and water.
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice-cold water, mixing just until the dough comes together. Don't overwork it!
Gently shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic, and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out.
When you're ready, lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin. Roll the dough into a large rectangle, then fold it into thirds like a letter. Give it a quarter turn and repeat the rolling and folding process a few times.
This creates the flaky, buttery layers that make the Banh Pate So so irresistible. Now your dough is ready to be filled and baked to perfection!
Step 2. Roll Out Dough Into Thin Sheets

Now that you've prepared the dough, it's time to roll it out into thin, even sheets. Grab your rolling pin and get ready for some flaky pastry magic!
Lightly dust your clean work surface with a bit of flour to prevent the dough from sticking. Gently place the dough on the surface and start rolling, applying even pressure. Roll the dough out until it's about 1/8-inch thick, being careful not to overwork it. If the dough starts to stick, simply dust a little more flour underneath.
Once you've achieved the perfect thin sheets, use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the dough into rectangles or squares, depending on your desired shape.
Step 3. Layer Dough With Pâté Filling

Take the rectangles or squares of rolled-out dough and place them on a clean work surface.
Next, gather the delicious pâté filling you prepared earlier. Scoop a generous amount of the savory pâté onto the center of each dough piece. Make sure to leave a bit of space around the edges so you can seal the dough later.
Now, fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Gently press the edges to seal them tightly. This will help prevent the pâté from leaking out during baking.
Once all the dough pieces are filled and sealed, arrange them on a baking sheet, making sure they don't touch. Brush the tops of the pastries with a beaten egg to give them a beautiful golden-brown color when baked.
Get ready to enjoy the incredible aroma of these flaky, buttery Vietnamese Banh Pate So as they bake to perfection! Get ready to enjoy the incredible aroma of these flaky, buttery Vietnamese Banh Pate So as they bake to perfection! With their golden, crispy layers and savory filling, each bite will transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Vietnam. For more inspiration, why not explore the flammekueche French flatbread recipe, another delightful dish that blends rich, comforting flavors with a touch of European charm?
Step 4. Bake Until Golden Brown

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the perfect temperature to bake your delightful Vietnamese Banh Pate So to golden perfection!
Carefully transfer the stuffed dough rectangles onto a baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between them.
Pop them in the oven and let the magic happen. As they bake, the flaky pastry will puff up, and the savory pâté filling will warm through.
Keep an eye on them, as you don't want the outside to get too dark before the inside is cooked.
After about 20-25 minutes, your Banh Pate So should be a lovely golden brown color.
Remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This will allow the filling to set nicely.
Serve these freshly baked treats warm, and enjoy the mouthwatering combination of buttery pastry and rich pâté.
Your taste buds are in for a real treat!
Step 5. Serve Warm With Dipping Sauce

After allowing the freshly baked Banh Pate So to cool for a few minutes, it's time to serve them warm with a delightful dipping sauce.
The steaming hot pastries are just begging to be dipped into a savory, flavorful sauce. You'll be amazed at how the rich, buttery crust pairs perfectly with the tangy, aromatic dipping sauce.
To serve, place the Banh Pate So on a serving platter and arrange the dipping sauce in small bowls around the pastries.
Encourage your guests to dip and enjoy! The contrast of the crisp, golden-brown exterior and the soft, flaky interior is simply divine.
Don't forget to have plenty of napkins on hand – these Vietnamese delights can be a bit messy, but that's part of the fun!
Gather your loved ones around the table, dip, and savor every bite. The warm, comforting flavors will have everyone coming back for more.
Final Thoughts

Although banh pate so may take some time and effort to prepare, the end result is well worth it. The buttery, flaky pastry and savory filling create a delightful combination that's sure to impress your family and friends.
Imagine the delight on their faces as they bite into the warm, golden crust and savor the rich, meaty flavors. It's a true taste of Vietnamese culture that you can share with loved ones.
Don't be intimidated by the process – with a bit of patience and care, you'll master this delectable treat in no time.
Imagine the pride you'll feel serving up these homemade banh pate so, fresh from your own kitchen. And the best part? The leftovers (if there are any!) make for an equally satisfying snack or packed lunch the next day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Flour for the Pastry?
You can use a different type of flour for the pastry, but it may affect the texture and taste. Consider all-purpose, whole wheat, or even gluten-free flour, but the results may vary from the original recipe.
How Do I Store Leftover Baked Banh Pate So?
You can store leftover baked banh pate so in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving for best texture and flavor.
Can I Freeze the Unbaked Dough for Later Use?
You can absolutely freeze the unbaked banh pate so dough for later use. Simply shape the dough, wrap it tightly, and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before shaping and baking as usual.
Is It Possible to Make a Vegan Version of Banh Pate So?
You can definitely make a vegan version of banh pate so. Simply replace the meat filling with a plant-based alternative, like sautéed mushrooms or lentils. Adjust the seasonings to suit your vegan preferences, and you'll have a delicious meatless pastry.
How Long Does the Dough Take to Rise Before Baking?
You'll typically need to let the dough rise for about 1 to 2 hours before baking. This allows the yeast to work its magic, creating air pockets that give the pastry its light, flaky texture.