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The Tasty Chinese New Year Delights in Vietnam

The Chinese community in Vietnam boasts a vibrant and diverse cultural life. Let's delve into the culinary delights of the Chinese New Year celebrations!

Administrator

11 August, 2024

Tet is one of the biggest holidays in many Asian cultures. It is a time for families to come together and enjoy traditional foods.

With a remarkable ability to preserve their cultural heritage, today, we will explore the unique culinary choices of the Chinese community during Tet in Vietnam, a country known for its distinct S-shape.

1 Shao Mai Dumplings

Shao Mai Dumplings

These dumplings are a staple of Chinese cuisine and are incredibly versatile. They can be filled with a variety of ingredients such as shrimp, pork, chicken, and even vegetables. Whether steamed, fried, or boiled, each cooking method brings out a unique flavor and texture.

Creating the perfect plate of dumplings requires a meticulous process, from shaping the dough to preparing the filling and finally, cooking them. This labor of love makes dumplings an excellent choice for a special occasion like Tet.

2 Char Siu

When it comes to Char Siu, one can’t help but think of those irresistible slices of grilled meat. The vibrant colors and mouthwatering flavors make it a perfect side dish to any meal.

Char Siu is typically made with lean pork and marinated with a slightly sweeter sauce than traditional grilled meat. For the Cantonese community in Vietnam, this dish is a must-have during Tet. Not only is it delicious, but it also symbolizes wealth and good fortune for the new year.

For more delicious options: Check out our collection of over 20 easy-to-make traditional Tet dishes to impress your guests.

3 Century Eggs

Century eggs, often served with dried shrimp and Chinese sausage, have a strong aroma and are an acquired taste. However, they offer a plethora of health benefits, including improved respiratory function, coagulation, and a remedy for hangovers.

These eggs are incredibly versatile and can be used in various dishes such as soups and rice. They are a popular choice during Tet gatherings, providing a unique flavor and a great conversation starter with friends and family.

4 Lap Vit

Lap Vit, similar to the familiar lap xuong, is made from 100% deboned duck meat, marinated with various spices, and then sun-dried. After the duck has absorbed the spices, it is steamed with rice, resulting in a fragrant and flavorful dish.

Additionally, the word “Lap” in the Lao language means “luck.” As a result, many Chinese families include this dish in their Tet celebrations, hoping for a lucky and prosperous new year.

5 Hainanese Chicken Rice

Hainanese Chicken Rice is a dish you’ll find wherever there’s a Chinese community. While it may seem simple at first glance, the preparation is quite intricate. The chicken is carefully poached, and the fat content is balanced so that it’s not too greasy.

The broth created from poaching the chicken is then served alongside the rice, enhancing the dish’s freshness and flavor. This delicious and unique dish is often used to treat guests during the Tet holiday.

6 Braised Duck

In Chinese, “Khau” means to braise until tender, and “Nhuc” refers to duck meat. This dish is prepared by braising the duck until it’s fall-off-the-bone tender. The longer it’s braised, the more tender and flavorful it becomes.

When eaten, the meat melts in your mouth, and the diverse spices used in the braising liquid create an explosion of flavors. It’s no wonder that this dish is often used to welcome guests from afar during Tet celebrations.

7 Tang Yuan (Glutinous Rice Balls)

In Chinese, “Tang Yuan” sounds similar to “Tuán Yuán,” which means reunion. These glutinous rice balls, floating in a sweet soup, are a delightful sight. When scooped with a spoon, you’ll find a bright yellow mung bean paste filling inside.

A bowl of Tang Yuan, complete with the sweet soup and garnished with sliced ginger, will warm your heart and soul. It’s no surprise that this dessert is a staple during the Chinese Tet holiday, symbolizing reunion and warmth.

8 Banh To (Nian Gao)

“To” in Banh To refers to height and seniority, signifying a wish for a better and more prosperous year ahead. While this cake is enjoyed during various special occasions, it is most popular during Tet.

Made primarily with glutinous rice, a touch of red beans, and sugar, Banh To is easy to prepare. After baking, it is customary to sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a delightful aroma and extra crunch. Banh To is also offered to ancestors during Tet, with variations in shape and color depending on family traditions.

Pairing a piece of Banh To with a sip of strong Chinese tea is a match made in culinary heaven.

These are just a few of the unique Chinese culinary delights we wanted to share with you. We hope that this has given you a fascinating insight into the world of Chinese cuisine and inspired your Tet holiday menu. Wishing you a warm and joyful time with your loved ones.

Frequently asked questions

There are many delicious traditional foods enjoyed during the Chinese New Year celebrations in Vietnam. Some popular dishes include Banh Chung (sticky rice cake with pork and green beans), Thit Kho Trung (braised pork and eggs), and Cari Ga (chicken curry). These dishes are believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the coming year.

The dishes served during Chinese New Year in Vietnam are carefully chosen to symbolize good fortune, wealth, and happiness. For example, Banh Chung represents the earth and the family’s unity, while Thit Kho Trung symbolizes rebirth and new beginnings with its red color and egg ingredients.

Leading up to Chinese New Year, you can find these traditional dishes in most restaurants and street food stalls across Vietnam. Many families also prepare these dishes at home, following secret family recipes passed down through generations.

Yes, it is customary to offer these dishes to ancestors and deities during altar ceremonies. People also often exchange these foods as gifts, wishing each other a prosperous and lucky year ahead.