Tet is a significant holiday in Vietnamese culture, and one of the most traditional foods during this celebration is bánh chưng, a delicious sticky rice cake. However, eating the same old steamed or fried bánh chưng can get monotonous. If you’re looking for creative ways to enjoy this delicacy, try these four mouthwatering dishes!
Bánh Chưng
1. Bánh Chưng Salad
Balance the richness of bánh chưng by pairing it with fresh vegetables for a refreshing Tet treat.
Preparation:
- Cut the bánh chưng into small pieces and lightly pan-fry until slightly crispy.
- Prepare a bed of greens with lettuce, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced onions.
- Whisk together a dressing of olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, minced garlic, and a drizzle of honey.
- Toss the bánh chưng with the vegetables and dressing, sprinkling sesame seeds on top for extra crunch and flavor.
This salad combines the crispiness of the bánh chưng with the freshness of the greens, creating a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
2. Bánh Chưng Spring Rolls (Chả Giò)
Instead of the usual fried bánh chưng, try this unique twist by turning it into delicious spring rolls.
Preparation:
- Peel the bánh chưng and separate the sticky rice from the filling.
- Chop the meat and mung beans finely and mix them with the sticky rice.
- Use rice paper to roll the mixture into small spring rolls and deep fry until golden brown.
The result? A crispy exterior with a soft and flavorful center, blending the richness of fatty meat and beans with the chewy texture of the rice – a true taste sensation!
3. Bánh Chưng Cheese Sticks
If you’re a fan of savory, creamy flavors, you’ll love this innovative take on bánh chưng.
Preparation:
- Cut the bánh chưng into small squares and deep fry until crispy.
- Drain the excess oil on a paper towel and place the fried bánh chưng in a large bowl.
- Sprinkle cheese powder (the kind used for flavored potato chips) over the bánh chưng and shake the bowl to coat them evenly.
These cheese-coated bánh chưng sticks are irresistibly crunchy and cheesy, yet not overly rich – a fun snack for the whole family!
4. Grilled Bánh Chưng
For a unique twist on the traditional dish, try grilling bánh chưng instead of frying it.
Preparation:
- Cut the bánh chưng into thick slices, about 1-2 cm each.
- Brush the surfaces with butter or honey for added shine and flavor.
- Place the slices on a charcoal grill or in an oven and cook until both sides are golden brown.
The grilled bánh chưng has a crispy exterior with a soft and chewy center, infused with the smoky aroma of the grill. This dish is a delightful alternative to the usual fried option.
With these four creative recipes, you can enjoy bánh chưng in new and exciting ways, making your Tet celebrations even more memorable. So, get creative in the kitchen and treat your family to these delicious variations of Vietnam’s beloved traditional cake!
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