Bắp Xào
Vietnamese Butter Corn with Dried Shrimp
A beloved Vietnamese street food snack, Bắp Xào features sweet corn kernels quickly sautéed with fragrant butter, savory dried shrimp, and fresh scallions, finished with a touch of sugar for a perfect sweet and savory balance.
🧂 Ingredients
- 3 cups Corn kernels(Fresh or frozen corn kernels. If using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry.)
- 3 tbsp Unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp Dried shrimp(Rinse briefly and pat dry. If large, you can roughly chop them.)
- 4 stalks Scallions (green onions)(White and light green parts thinly sliced for sautéing, dark green parts thinly sliced for garnish.)
- 1 tsp Granulated sugar(Adjust to taste.)
- 1/4 tsp Salt(Optional, to taste, especially if corn is unsalted.)
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper(Freshly ground, optional.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the aromatics: Rinse the dried shrimp under cool water for a few seconds and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. Slice the scallions, separating the white and light green parts from the dark green tops. Set aside the dark green parts for garnish.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 2
Melt the butter in a large skillet or wok over medium heat (around 175°C / 350°F). Once the butter is melted and shimmering, add the dried shrimp and the white/light green parts of the scallions. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the shrimp becomes fragrant and slightly crisped, and the scallions soften.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 3
Add the corn kernels to the skillet. Increase the heat to medium-high (around 190°C / 375°F). Stir-fry the corn, tossing frequently, for 5-7 minutes. You are looking for the corn to become tender and develop some lightly browned, slightly charred edges, which adds a lovely depth of flavor.
⏱️ 5-7 minutes - 4
Stir in the sugar, and optional salt and pepper. Continue to stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until the sugar has dissolved and evenly coated the corn. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
⏱️ 1-2 minutes - 5
Remove from heat. Stir in most of the reserved dark green scallion slices. Serve immediately while hot, garnished with the remaining fresh scallion greens. This dish is best enjoyed fresh as a delightful snack.
⏱️ 1 minute
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The dried shrimp provide a crucial umami depth; don't skip them!
- ✓Look for kernels that are slightly blistered or charred for the best flavor.
- ✓Adjust the sugar to your preference for sweetness.
- ✓This is a popular and quick street food snack, perfect for sharing.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha during step 4.
- For a richer flavor, stir in 1-2 tablespoons of coconut milk along with the sugar in step 4.