Explore 4 simple yet highly addictive local cakes in Thanh Hóa

You don't need sophisticated flavors; sometimes, the most addictive and crush-worthy treats are these humble local cakes!

Discover 4 rustic and addictive local cakes in Thanh Hóa

1. Rolled Cake

When it comes to cakes in Thanh Hóa, omitting rolled cake would be a big miss. Although rolled cakes are widely available, trying Thanh Hóa's version unveils a distinct flavor.

Thanh Hóa's rolled cake is a tantalizing shrimp and meat-filled delight. The sweet and savory shrimp filling, wrapped in a soft and chewy rice flour shell, remains tender even after some time. The dipping sauce is a mild fish sauce with a hint of chili, and a piece of grilled pork sausage adds an extra kick when enjoyed with the warm cake.

If you've ever tried it, I'm sure you'll forever remember that flavor and want to return to Thanh's homeland to indulge multiple times.

2. Savory Molded Cake

The savory molded cake is an exclusive delicacy found only in Thanh, boasting a distinct flavor and a visually pleasing jade green color.

Crafted by cooking dark rice flour with a hint of lime, a touch of fat, and sautéed shallots, this molded cake emanates a fragrant aroma. Incorporating watercress or mustard greens during the steaming process creates its signature green hue. Continuous stirring ensures a smooth, lump-free consistency.

This molded cake must be enjoyed hot, lifted from the pot placed in a carefully wrapped basket to retain its warmth. As guests partake, the rising smoke carries a rich aroma. Sprinkled on top are freshly cooked mung beans, creating a delightful presentation.

The bowl of savory molded cake shines with its velvety jade green hue, topped with the golden color of mung beans. The unique and hearty taste of the dark rice flour cooked in watercress broth, combined with the texture of the mung beans, is truly praiseworthy. Notably, the crispy bottom of the molded cake, a delightfully crunchy layer, is a sought-after treat. This simple, rustic dish is a nostalgic part of the childhood of many Thanh locals.

Though its name may resemble the famous Hue-style 'bánh khoái,' Thanh Hóa's shrimp pancake boasts unique flavors and distinct preparation methods.

To craft this pancake, a large iron pot is heated, filled with grease. Swiftly, a layer of corn, scallions is added, ensuring an even spread across the pot. Next comes the batter, and finally, the shrimp are sprinkled on top. Covering it, the pancake is left to cook for about 30 seconds to a minute before being folded and served hot.

Using a small spatula, the cooked layers of batter are lifted from the hot pot. People in Thanh Hóa often choose coastal hometown fish sauce to create a dipping sauce—balanced, not overly sweet or pungent—enhanced with fragrant kumquat, a hint of northern pepper, and a few chili peppers. The pancake is fragrant, with the sweetness of scallions, corn, the richness of shrimp, and a crispy outer edge. It's best enjoyed hot without feeling too heavy even after indulging.

If you ever get the chance to visit the beautiful land of Thanh, join your friends in seeking out the stalls selling shrimp pancakes in the late afternoon on Truong Thi Street, Dao Duy Tu Street, Han Thuyen Street, Vườn Hoa Market, and more.

4. Gear-Shaped Cake

Crafted from finely ground dark rice, packed within banana leaves, and filled with pork, dried onions, and wood ear mushrooms, the leaves used to wrap these cakes are often fresh dong leaves from the mountains or freshly cut banana leaves from home gardens. Cleaned and lightly heated to enhance flexibility and prevent tearing, these leaves encapsulate the unique flavor of the whimsical gear-shaped cake.

After being neatly wrapped, these toothy leaf cakes, resembling cute little gears, are carefully arranged in a pot, followed by pouring boiling water and boiling until fully cooked. Freshly boiled, the cakes release a thick smoke, carrying the fragrant scent of shallots and fat, offering a soft and delightful texture. Even when cool, they maintain a satisfying crunch.

In the past, these cakes were reserved for festive occasions like Tet, but now they are made year-round and have become a favorite dish for many. The whimsical gear-shaped cakes are delicious anytime, especially on chilly rainy days.

According to Afamily

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Reference: Travel guide on Mytour