Buzz
The culinary traditions of Tet in the Western region are remarkably diverse and unique. Traditional holiday dishes showcase simplicity while remaining deeply rooted in cultural heritage.
Tet cuisine in the Western region reflects the cultural fusion of four ethnic groups: Kinh, Cham, Hoa, and Khmer. The way people in the West celebrate Tet carries a distinct charm of the ancient riverine culture. The dishes highlight the abundance of local produce and embody the harmony of yin and yang, fulfilling both spiritual and religious aspects. The Tet meal is first offered on the ancestral altar to welcome ancestors, then enjoyed by the family as a symbol of togetherness.
Braised pork with duck eggs
Braised pork with duck eggs is a quintessential Tet dish. Tender pork belly is marinated with fish sauce, sugar, garlic, and shallots, then simmered with boiled duck eggs in fresh coconut water. The natural sweetness of coconut water blends perfectly with the richness of pork and eggs, creating a deeply flavorful and aromatic dish. The skillful seasoning by grandmothers and mothers ensures the dish is bursting with flavor. It is often served with steamed rice for a truly irresistible meal.
Bitter melon soup
Western Tet cuisine feels incomplete without a bowl of bitter melon soup. It is believed that consuming this dish during Tet symbolizes letting go of hardships and welcoming a year filled with good fortune. The bitter melon is halved, deseeded, and stuffed with a mixture of ground pork, wood ear mushrooms, scallions, and seasonings. Once stuffed, it is tied with scallions and simmered in broth until tender.
Chinese sausage
In the past, Western families often prepared Chinese sausage a month before Tet. Ground pork is mixed with fat, rose wine, and sugar, then stuffed into dried pork intestines or collagen casings. The sausages are sun-dried for 4-5 days to allow natural fermentation. Today, most families prefer purchasing pre-made sausages. The vibrant red and flavorful sausages add a festive touch to the Tet meal.
Pickled leeks
Accompanying Chinese sausage, pickled leeks are indispensable. Leeks, resembling small onions, are pickled to achieve a crisp texture and a delightful sweet-sour flavor.
Caramelized shrimp
As Tet approaches, the Western region sees an abundance of river prawns, making caramelized prawns a staple on the holiday dining table. This dish is best enjoyed hot with steamed rice. The natural sweetness of the prawns combined with the rich, savory sauce creates an irresistible flavor.
Tet cake
When discussing Western Tet cuisine, Tet cake stands out as a quintessential dish. This traditional delicacy is made from glutinous rice, filled with mung bean paste and pork belly, and sometimes includes variations like banana or bean fillings. The cake is rolled into a cylindrical shape, tightly wrapped in banana leaves, and boiled until cooked. Tet cake is not only a delicious and humble treat but also a symbol of the Western people's deep appreciation for family and friends during the festive season.
Pickled bean sprouts
Pickled bean sprouts are a refreshing side dish during Tet, perfect for balancing rich flavors. Made with simple ingredients like bean sprouts, chives, carrots, garlic, and chili, the mixture is soaked in a brine of salt, vinegar, and sugar. After a day in a glass jar, it’s ready to serve alongside dishes like braised pork with duck eggs, caramelized prawns, and Tet cake.
Cold pork roll
This dish, though unfamiliar in name, resembles Northern-style pork rolls like giò thủ and giò bì. Made primarily from pork and pork skin, it is wrapped in banana leaves and rolled into a cylindrical shape. However, cold pork roll has a unique preparation and preservation method. It is thinly sliced and used in salads or mixed dishes, adding a delightful touch to meals.
Candied fruits
The Western region is blessed with an abundance of fragrant flowers and sweet fruits. The creativity of the locals has led to a variety of candied fruits, making them an essential part of Tet cuisine. Depending on the area, households during Tet often feature candied coconut, ginger, banana, tamarind, or pineapple.
According to Mytour.vn
***
Reference: Mytour.vn Travel Guide
Mytour.vnNovember 24, 2024
