Essential Foods to Have in the Fridge Before the Lunar New Year

Tết must-have: Bánh chưng, bánh tét

During traditional Tet celebrations, bánh chưng and bánh tét are essential dishes. While some families have the tradition of making these cakes on New Year’s Eve, others opt to buy them from the market or supermarket due to time constraints.

Since bánh chưng and bánh tét need to be stored for several days, proper storage methods are crucial. While some believe that refrigerating these cakes can make them hard, in Vietnam’s climate, leaving them outside may lead to spoilage. Therefore, it is recommended to store the cakes in the refrigerator and cover the cut parts with food wrap. Before consumption, the cakes can be boiled, steamed, or fried, although frying may not be the healthiest option due to the added oil and fat.

For more information:

Various types of chả giò for Tet

Giò and chả are equally important dishes during Vietnamese Tet celebrations, with variations such as giò lụa, giò tai, and giò xào. It is advisable to purchase 2 to 3 different types of sausages to avoid monotony.

To preserve fried rolls for consumption throughout Tet, they should be stored in the refrigerator or freezer, as long as the temperature is below 25°C. Certain cooked meat types are better stored in the freezer. Fried rolls can be kept for about 4-6 days in the refrigerator and up to 10 days in the freezer.

Essential meat types

Pork is a staple meat for Tet celebrations and should always be available in the refrigerator. It is advised to buy a small amount of meat, wash it, and wrap it in individual portions for daily consumption. This method is more convenient than storing a whole piece of meat in the refrigerator.

When it comes to beef, the same approach can be applied, and marinating it with garlic and spices in advance can enhance its flavor. For chicken, rubbing ginger and salt on it before placing it in a ziplock bag is recommended. All meat types can be stored in the freezer compartment of the refrigerator, while chicken can alternatively be kept in the cooler compartment.

For more information:

Fresh seafood and fish

Fresh seafood and fish are best consumed immediately, but can be stored in case of emergency. It is recommended to purchase a small quantity and consume it within 3 to 4 days.

When buying fish, choose large, firm, and lively specimens, avoiding dead fish. Clean the fish’s guts, fins, and tail before placing it in ziplock bags in the freezer compartment of the refrigerator.

Similar precautions should also be taken when handling other seafood types or purchasing them from the supermarket, as proper storage is essential for avoiding spoilage and food poisoning. It is advisable to buy seafood before the 27th, as prices tend to increase afterwards.

Pickled onions for Tết

Đưa hành (pickled onions) and red couplets are two essential items during Tet. Pickled onions can be purchased from the market or, for those with free time, made at home.

Making pickled onions at home adds a personal touch and enhances the festive atmosphere. To preserve pickled onions, store them in the refrigerator.

Before each meal, briefly soak the pickled onions in boiling water or diluted saltwater to cool them down. If possible, peel off the outer layers to make the pickles more visually appealing.

For more information:

Essential vegetables

Essential vegetables include various types of regular and raw vegetables, as well as different kinds of cabbage and turnips. Adding mushrooms, such as shiitake and wood ear mushrooms, can also enhance the flavor of dishes.

Cabbage and turnips provide essential nutrients for families during Tet. Thoroughly drain vegetables before storing them in the refrigerator, and allocate a separate compartment to avoid wilting.

For more information:

Must-have spices

Spices are crucial for adding attractive and flavorsome tastes to dishes. Essential spices include garlic, onions, ginger, lemongrass, lime leaves, various herbs, shallots, and of course, lime.

Fresh fruits for Tet days

We should buy an assortment of fruits based on the Tet customs of our region and store them in the refrigerator. Don’t forget to include tomatoes, carrots, and cucumbers. Ensure that fruits are drained before refrigeration, just like vegetables.

Yogurt

Yogurt is a beneficial addition to Tết meals, helping maintain a healthy digestive system amidst indulging in special and exotic foods. Purchase about 3 to 4 packs of yogurt in flavors your family enjoys and store them in the refrigerator for gradual consumption.

While the refrigerator is an ideal storage place, it is advisable to only purchase a small amount of food that can be consumed within three to five days. By doing so, the risk of spoilage and the accumulation of harmful toxins in the food can be minimized. Additionally, due to possible market reopening after the third day, purchasing excessive amounts of food for long-term storage is not recommended.