The Ultimate Guide to Che Lam: Uncovering the Origins and Delights of This Specialty Dessert

There’s nothing quite like savoring a warm cup of afternoon tea, paired with a chewy, sweet treat, is there? Today, Bach Hoa XANH will provide you with more details about this delightful treat, Che Lam. Where does this delicacy originate from, and why is it called Che Lam?

1The Origin of Che Lam

Che Lam, a beloved Vietnamese snack, may seem familiar to many, but its origins remain a mystery to most.

According to folk studies, Che Lam stems from the devout devotion of the people to the Buddha. They crafted a delicious and chewy treat as an offering.

However, other accounts suggest that this delicacy dates back to the Le Dynasty. It is believed that the Lam Son militia created this convenient, energy-packed snack to sustain them during their long marches to battle.

Another folk story attributes the creation of Che Lam to the era of King Minh Mang. It is said that, on one Tet holiday, the people and officials could not decide on a unique offering for the king. Out of this worry and uncertainty, Che Lam was born.

Conclusion: Numerous tales surround the origins of Che Lam, and while we may never know its exact beginnings, it has certainly left its mark on history and continues to be enjoyed to this day.

2Why is it Called Che Lam?

This treat, in its early days, had no specific name. It was simply known as a cake made from glutinous rice flour and peanuts. The subtle sweetness of the molasses, combined with the nutty, buttery flavor of the peanuts, created a delicious, non-cloying treat.

The name Che Lam was eventually adopted, and it has stuck ever since. Interestingly, despite its name, it is not a drink (che), but the king, intrigued by the name, decided to taste it anyway.

The delicate sweetness of the molasses and the warmth of the ginger won the king’s praise, and thus, Che Lam became a popular treat among the people.

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3Where is Che Lam from?

While Che Lam has multiple claimed origins, it is widely recognized as a specialty of the traditional craft village of Thach Xa, Thach That, Hanoi (formerly Ha Tay). However, it is now produced in various neighboring provinces, so when people mention Che Lam, they often associate it with the Northern delicacy.

4Ingredients of Che Lam

The following ingredients are used to create the distinctive Che Lam:

• Glutinous rice flour
• Peanuts
• Sesame
• Ginger
• Molasses

Among these, molasses is a syrup-like liquid similar to honey, derived from sugarcane, boasting a golden hue and a delicate sweetness. You can find molasses in markets, supermarkets, and food stores.

In reality, the ingredients for Che Lam are incredibly humble and straightforward, but they must be carefully selected to ensure the best quality. The simplicity of these ingredients, combined with the creativity and skill of the maker, results in the delightful treat that is Che Lam.

5Where to Buy Che Lam in Ho Chi Minh City?

Che Lam is now readily available in many places in Ho Chi Minh City. You can purchase it directly from Northern specialty markets in the city. If you’re looking for assured quality, head to Maximark Cong Hoa supermarket:

Maximark Cong Hoa Supermarket: 15-17 Cong Hoa Street, Ward 4, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City

You can also find Che Lam on various e-commerce platforms, but be sure to verify the product’s quality before purchasing to avoid counterfeits.

The information above provides valuable insights into Che Lam. Sample this treat to discover its unique flavor. Hopefully, these details will prove useful to you.