Bánh xèo needed to be devoured as soon as it hit the plate. There was never any waiting for late dinner arrivals, prayers, or the shuffling of chairs. You needed to leave the civilities at home. None of the “Oh no, please, you start,” or “Oh no, please, you should try it first.” Stop it right there. Dive in. A bánh xèo pancake should be crispy on the outside and ever so slightly moist on the inside. Leave it hanging around too long and you’ve got a soggy crepe on your hands.
