Ke Bakery, a renowned delicacy from Bac Giang, has its roots in the ancient village of Dinh Ke, located in the city of Bac Giang. Out of the eleven hamlets that comprise the village, six are dedicated to the art of crafting these delectable treats. The name ‘Ke Bakery’ pays homage to the village’s namesake, and for generations, it has been a staple food and a means of sustenance for the locals.
Initially, Ke Bakery-making was a secondary occupation, but over time, it evolved into the primary livelihood for many families in the region. The success of this trade has fostered a deep-rooted attachment and passion for this humble, yet extraordinary, culinary tradition.
It is worth noting that Ke Bakery is distinct from ‘ke’ rice crackers, despite their similar names. The former derives its name from the village of origin, while the latter refers to a combination of rice crackers and green mung beans.
A mouthwatering display of Ke Bakery, renowned for its generous size and delectable flavor.
Ke Bakery boasts a long history and is a traditional delicacy that embodies the meticulousness, skill, and subtlety of the local artisans. At first glance, the process of creating these treats may seem uncomplicated, but it demands a great deal of precision and dexterity.
The key ingredient that imparts the distinctive flavor of Ke Bakery is rice. Artisans meticulously select the finest rice grains, soaking them until they swell, before grinding them into a powder that is both velvety smooth and dazzlingly white.
To enhance the richness of the crackers, additional ingredients such as black and white sesame seeds and peanuts are incorporated. These ingredients contribute a nutty, buttery flavor that perfectly complements the rice base.
The intricate and meticulous process of crafting Ke Bakery, a testament to the artisans’ dedication and skill.
According to seasoned craftsmen, the most critical step in ensuring the superior quality of Ke Bakery is the baking process. Unlike other varieties, Ke Bakery undergoes a more intricate and distinctive baking procedure.
The crackers are baked on a steam pot, a wholly handmade endeavor that necessitates a delicate touch. The baker must gently spread the batter evenly to ensure the final product is flawless and free from tears.
What sets Ke Bakery apart is the double-baking technique. Unlike conventional rice crackers, which are baked once, Ke Bakery involves spreading a second layer of batter over the first while it is still slightly moist. Once baked, the skilled artisans deftly remove the crackers from the pot using a large bamboo tube and place them on a bamboo tray.
The art of making Ke Bakery demands a high level of proficiency and finesse.
Another unique aspect of Ke Bakery is the addition of sesame seeds and crushed peanuts, which are sprinkled on one side of the cracker and then spread evenly around the edges, rather than on both sides.
The drying process is equally laborious, involving two rounds of sun exposure to ensure the crackers are thoroughly dried. Timing is crucial, as the bakers must choose a day with pleasant sunshine that is neither too weak nor too intense.
As the crackers begin to harden, they are carefully removed from the trays, a task that requires gentleness and dexterity to avoid breakage. They are then dried again to achieve the desired crispness and flavor. Once completely dry, the crackers are stored in plastic bags to prevent moisture and mold.
Prior to sale, the crackers undergo a final step of roasting. In Dinh Ke, the crackers are roasted over charcoal, and this crucial step determines their final appearance. During roasting, one hand holds the cracker while the other continuously fans it with a bamboo fan, ensuring even browning and a delightful aroma. If any warping occurs during roasting, the crackers can be reshaped to achieve a uniform appearance.
The roasting process is a critical step in ensuring the quality and appearance of Ke Bakery.
Perhaps it is this meticulous attention to detail and skill that has preserved the unique character of Ke Bakery, ensuring that whenever Bac Giang is mentioned, this humble village delicacy is always remembered.
While there are numerous villages across the country that produce rice crackers, Ke Bakery from Bac Giang stands out for its distinctive flavor and characteristics. Apart from its impressive size and distinctive color, Ke Bakery is renowned for its irresistible combination of nutty, buttery flavors contributed by the sesame seeds, peanuts, and sweet potatoes, all blended perfectly with the finest rice and the skilled craftsmanship of the locals. Ke Bakery has become synonymous with Bac Giang and is celebrated far and wide.
