The Tasty History of Braised Pork: A Vietnamese Tet Holiday Tradition
The delicious stewed meat dish, "Kho Tau", has often been associated with Chinese cuisine. However, this is a common misconception, and the origins of this flavorful dish are purely Vietnamese. "Kho" refers to the cooking method of braising or stewing, while "tau" is a term used to describe something that is well-presented, refined, and elegant. This dish is a true testament to the sophistication of Vietnamese cuisine, and its unique blend of flavors and textures sets it apart from any other culinary tradition.
On special occasions like Tet, Vietnamese families always cook a pot of braised pork with eggs, which is offered to their ancestors and consumed on the three days of Tet. Braised pork and eggs, or ‘thit kho tau’, is now a staple not only during Tet but also in everyday meals.
According to folk tales, braised pork and eggs was a dish commonly prepared by sailors on their long voyages as it could be stored and consumed for several days. Hence, the dish was named ‘thit kho tau’, with the word ‘tau’ referring to the sailing ships.
Illustrative Image
Cultural experts, including the renowned writer Binh Nguyen Loc, offer another explanation for the term ‘tau’. In the culture of Southern Vietnam, ‘tau’ refers to a brackish, slightly salty taste. For example, the upper section of the Cai Tau river is called Cai Tau Thuong, while the lower section is named Cai Tau Ha.
Thus, the dish ‘thit kho tau’ could be more accurately described as ‘thit kho lac’, as the slightly salty taste allows it to be consumed over several days during Tet, when traditional markets are usually closed.
Regardless of its origin, ‘thit kho tau’ holds a special place in the hearts of Vietnamese people, who prepare it during Tet to symbolize family reunion and to honor their ancestors.
2Significance of Braised Pork and Eggs during Tet
While Northern Vietnam has ‘thit dong’ as a traditional Tet dish, Southern Vietnam boasts ‘thit kho tau’. Visiting a Southern household during Tet, one will likely find this dish, with its familiar taste evoking a sense of harmony and reunion, which are considered auspicious for a successful new year. Notably, the eggs remain whole, symbolizing wholeness and prosperity for the family in the coming year.
Related: A Collection of Over 20 Delicious and Easy-to-Make Cakes for Tet
Frequently asked questions
Braised pork, or ‘Thit Kho’ in Vietnamese, has a long and tasty history in Vietnam, especially during the Tet Holiday season. The dish is believed to have originated in the South of the country, where it has been a traditional part of Tet celebrations for generations. Over time, it has become a national favorite, with many regions putting their own twist on the recipe.
The Tet Holiday is the most important celebration in Vietnam, marking the Lunar New Year. Families gather to feast and celebrate, and braised pork is considered a lucky dish to serve during this time. The dish is believed to bring prosperity and good fortune for the coming year, with the rich, fatty pork symbolizing abundance and wealth.
The classic recipe for braised pork involves slowly cooking fatty pork belly or shoulder in a clay pot with a mixture of fish sauce, garlic, shallots, black pepper, and a touch of sugar. The meat is braised until tender, resulting in a rich, flavorful dish. It is often served with hard-boiled eggs, which are braised alongside the pork, and rice.
While the classic recipe is beloved, different regions of Vietnam have put their own spin on braised pork. In the North, it is common to add carrots and ginger to the dish, providing a slightly sweeter taste. In Central Vietnam, lemongrass and chili are often added for a more fragrant and spicy version. Some regions also vary the cooking method, with some preferring to pressure cook the pork or even use a slow cooker for an even more tender result.
While it is most traditionally associated with the Tet Holiday, braised pork is a versatile dish that is enjoyed year-round in Vietnam. It is a popular choice for family gatherings, birthdays, and other special occasions. Many Vietnamese also enjoy it as a comfort food on regular weekdays, served with a bowl of steaming rice.
Illustrative Image
