1. Bánh chưng (square sticky rice cake)

Bánh chưng has a long history in Vietnamese culinary culture and is an essential part of the Tet feast.

Its square shape symbolizes gratitude to ancestors and the harmony between heaven and earth. Made from sticky rice, mung beans, and pork, wrapped in green dong leaves, bánh chưng delivers a rich and memorable flavor.

2. Bánh tét (cylindrical sticky rice cake)

While bánh chưng is more popular in northern Vietnam, bánh tét is a Tet staple in central and southern regions.

It features similar ingredients to bánh chưng but is wrapped in banana leaves and shaped into a cylinder. Bánh tét comes in both savory versions (filled with pork and mung beans) and sweet versions (with banana or red beans).

3. Canh bóng (dried pork skin soup)

This light soup, often served during Tet, combines pork broth with dried pork skin, mushrooms, shrimp, and vegetables. It is a staple in northern feasts, offering a refreshing balance to the rich dishes on the table.

4. Xôi gấc (steamed glutinous rice with gac fruit)

Bright red xôi gấc represents luck and prosperity. The dish’s striking color, achieved naturally from the gấc fruit, makes it a meaningful addition to Tet feasts, symbolizing good fortune for the new year.

5. Thịt kho trứng (braised pork with eggs)

A beloved southern Vietnamese dish during Tet, thịt kho trứng features tender braised pork belly and boiled eggs cooked in coconut water. The rich, savory dish is best enjoyed with steamed rice and is said to represent family unity and abundance.

6. Gà luộc (boiled chicken)

A beautifully golden boiled chicken is a must-have offering in Tet rituals. Tied in the "phoenix wings" position, the chicken symbolizes completeness and happiness for the family.

7. Thịt đông (jellied meat)

Favored in northern Vietnam, thịt đông is a hearty dish that stores well, making it convenient for the three-day Tet celebrations. The dish combines pork, mushrooms, and sometimes carrots, creating a unique savory jelly that fits perfectly with cold weather.

8. Hành muối (pickled onions) and củ kiệu (pickled scallions)

Pickled onions or scallions are simple yet indispensable accompaniments to Tet feasts. Their tangy crunch pairs well with rich dishes like bánh chưng or braised pork, helping balance the flavors.

9. Nem rán (spring rolls)

Known as chả giò in the south, nem rán is a quintessential Tet dish. Made with minced pork, mushrooms, vermicelli, and eggs wrapped in rice paper and deep-fried to golden perfection, it offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

10. Giò lụa (Vietnamese pork sausage)

Simple yet iconic, giò lụa (or chả lụa in the south) is a staple in Tet feasts. Made from finely ground pork and seasoned with fish sauce, it is wrapped in banana leaves and boiled. Easy to prepare and long-lasting, it’s a perfect dish for festive gatherings.

11. Thịt lợn, bắp bò ngâm mắm (pork and beef soaked in fish sauce)

Popular in central Vietnam, these dishes involve marinating pork or beef in fish sauce. The sweet-salty flavor, combined with a hint of tang, creates a mouthwatering delicacy perfect for Tet celebrations.

12. Canh khổ qua nhồi thịt (bitter melon soup)

This southern dish, featuring bitter melon stuffed with pork, holds deep symbolic meaning during Tet. It represents the hope that the hardships of the past year will pass, making way for a smoother, more prosperous year ahead.

Together, these dishes reflect the culinary diversity of Vietnam and the deep cultural significance of Tet, uniting families through the warmth of shared meals.

Ngoc Lai