Hung Vuong Commemoration Day on March 10 of the lunar calendar is one of Vietnam’s biggest holidays to commemorate the founders of the nation, the Hung Kings. This holiday is an opportunity to rest after two months of work after Tet. And like any other traditional holiday, there are traditional foods to go with it.
Bánh chưng, bánh giầy
Bánh chưng, bánh giầy, are unique enough for their names to be retained when added to the English dictionary. In any ceremony for any holiday, Bánh chưng and bánh giầy always go hand in hand with each other. The two cakes originated from the 6th Hung Kings period, which has been associated with Vietnamese life since ancient times.
Both Bánh chưng and bánh giầy are made from glutinous rice, green beans, and pork. They have a unique and delightful flavor that few conventional dishes can match. Bánh chưng has a square shape, symbolizing the “earth”. Bánh giầy is round shape, symbolizing the “sky.” For Bánh chưng and bánh giầy to be good, they must go through many meticulous and sophisticated processes.
Besides being traditional dishes of Vietnamese cuisine, Bánh chưng and bánh giầy are also associated with a historical story that has been handed down through generations.
Boiled chicken
Boiled chicken has long become an indispensable dish in the Vietnamese forefathers’ offerings. So, on the Death Anniversary of the Hung Kings, Vietnamese need to prepare a delicious boiled chicken to make an offering tray, then they can enjoy it with their family.
According to Vietnamese belief, the chicken is a symbol of integrity and strength. Boiled chicken is rather easy to make and is also nutritious and delicious.
Gac sticky rice
There must be Gac sticky rice in the Hung King offerings tray, in addition to the boiled chicken. This meal is made with a blend of traditional sticky rice and Gac fruit, which results in vibrant hues.
Vietnamese people believe that the color red brings good fortune. As a result, sticky rice is one of the meals that bring good things and happiness to the Vietnamese culinary tradition.
Lotus rice (dry lotus seed rice)
Simply looking at the picture might make you hungry. The meal is known as “royal food” is lotus rice. This meal has been chosen as a tribute to the king since feudal times, so it demands precise and professional preparation.
Spring rolls
During the holidays and Tet, spring rolls are a staple on every family’s dinner tray. This is a meal made up of a variety of ingredients that have been deep-fried.
This meal is fairly simple; you may find a recipe online and make it yourself.