The corn cake is a renowned specialty from Lao Cai province, particularly originating from Si Ma Cai – a small district in the Northeast of Lao Cai. It is commonly found at highland markets, most notably at Bac Ha market.
The corn cake consists of two main components – the cake part and the sour broth part. The cake part is made from ground corn and lime water, while the sour broth part is made from cane sugar, khuôn, and chín.
Once the corn cakes are completed, they are brought to the market for sale. When customers purchase them, the sellers will cut the cakes into small pieces, place them in bowls, and add d?u x?. Finally, the sour broth is poured into the bowl. It is then stirred evenly and enjoyed with chopsticks.
The corn cake has a distinct and delightful flavor. The sweet and sour taste of the broth combines perfectly with the refreshing taste of the corn cake, along with the aromatic flavor of peanuts, the spicy taste of ground chili, and d?u x?, leaving a memorable impression on the diners.
The affordable price of a bowl of corn cake, ranging from 15,000 – 20,000 VND/bowl, allows everyone to savor the delicious and chewy treat without any concerns about the cost!
1. Introduction to corn cake
Corn cake is a renowned specialty of Lao Cai province, specifically originating from Si Ma Cai – a small district in the Northeast of Lao Cai. When visiting highland markets, particularly Bac Ha market, it is not hard to find corn cake displayed in large pots.
The main components of a corn cake are the cake part and the sour broth part. Ground corn and lime water are used for the cake part, while cane sugar, khuôn, and chín are used for the sour broth part.
Once the corn cakes are ready, they are taken to the market for sale. When customers buy them, the sellers will cut the cakes into small pieces, place them in bowls, and add d?u x?. Finally, the sour broth is poured into the bowl. All that remains is to pick up the chopsticks, stir it well, and savor the dish!
The corn cake is known for its delicious and unique flavor. The sweet and sour taste of the broth blends with the refreshing taste of the corn cake, complemented by the aromatic flavor of peanuts, the spiciness of ground chili, and d?u x?, captivating diners from their very first bite.
With a price ranging from 15,000 – 20,000 VND/bowl, the corn cake is an affordable and delectable treat, ensuring that everyone can indulge in its chewy and flavorful goodness without any worry about the cost!
2. Learn how to make corn cake
The cake part
Ingredients:
- Ground corn
- Lime water
Instructions:
After the corn cake is made, it is taken to the market. When someone wants to purchase it, the seller will either cut it or use a bào to create threads. This results in beautiful and shiny threads of corn cake, which are then placed in a bowl with sour broth.
The sour broth part
Ingredients:
- Cane sugar
- Rice vinegar
- Ripe fruits
Cane sugar – the main ingredient of the sour broth part
Instructions:
Finally, seal the jars or bottles tightly to allow the sour broth to ferment naturally. After 2 – 3 days of fermentation, the sour broth is ready to be used.
The seller pours the sour broth into a bowl, then adds corn cakes and herbs. The corn cake has a unique flavor that is characteristic of the highland region.
Combining the soft and chewy corn cake with the flavorful sour broth, it can be enjoyed with d?u x? to fully experience the dish’s taste. If you have the chance to visit this place, make sure to give it a try!
Above is our article about corn cake, a specialty of highland markets that leaves a lasting impression on anyone who tries it. We hope that you find this information useful!