In the heart of Vietnam's Thanh Tri District, Thanh Khuc Village stands as a beacon of tradition, especially renowned for its Chung cake—a staple of the Tet holiday. As the Lunar New Year approaches, the village transforms into a hub of activity, with families coming together to craft this time-honored delicacy. The Chung cake is not just food; it's a symbol of the earth, part of a legend that dates back to the era of the Hung Kings, and a testament to the enduring customs that define Vietnamese culture.
As the Lunar New Year, known as Tet in Vietnam, draws near, Thanh Khuc Village buzzes with anticipation. The villagers, deeply rooted in tradition, begin their preparations for making Chung cake well in advance. This local specialty, integral to Tet celebrations, is a savory treat made from glutinous rice, mung beans, and pork, wrapped in la dong leaves.
The Chung cake's origin is steeped in Vietnamese folklore, particularly the tale of Lang Lieu, a prince who crafted the cake to represent the Earth, complementing the Sky symbolized by Giay cake. His culinary innovation won him the throne, and since then, the Chung cake has been a symbol of prosperity and gratitude during Tet.
Nguyen Thi Thuy, a resident of Thanh Khuc, describes the meticulous process: "Daily, we wash la dong leaves, rice, beans and then wrap Chung cake. We cook it overnight and sell it the next day. We keep working day and night." Families in the village employ 10-25 workers and use 5-10 large pots to cook the cakes, with businesses evolving from retail to wholesale.
The Chung cake industry has not only preserved a cultural legacy but also significantly improved the villagers' livelihoods. Nguyen Minh Tan, known as the "Chung cake Master," has dedicated over 30 years to perfecting the craft, employing around 20 workers and exporting thousands of cakes internationally since 1994.
To create an authentic Chung cake, high-quality ingredients are essential. La dong leaves are sourced from provinces like Thanh Hoa and Nghe An for their durability and vibrant color post-cooking. The pork used is a mix of fat and lean cuts, providing a rich flavor that complements the rice and beans. Giang strings, used for wrapping, are treated with saltwater or steam to enhance flexibility.
The villagers of Thanh Khuc can earn VND10,000-15,000 ($0.5-0.8) per cake year-round, with profits soaring during Tet. Nguyen Quoc Trieu, another villager, emphasizes the effort and experience required to maintain their reputation and pass on this prestigious craft to future generations.
With 90% of its population engaged in making Chung Cake, Thanh Khuc Village has been celebrated for its expertise for 40-50 years. The skill of the villagers is so refined that they don't require molds to achieve the perfect shape for their cakes. Many masters can produce hundreds of uniformly sized cakes, a testament to their craftsmanship.
As we delve into the world of Vietnam's culinary traditions, Thanh Khuc Village's Chung cake stands out as a symbol of cultural identity and communal prosperity. This Tet delicacy is a reminder of the rich heritage that continues to thrive in Vietnam's heartland.
For further exploration of Vietnamese culture and traditions, consider these resources:
(Source: Dtinews.vn by Quang Thanh)
ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA Unveils 2012 Vietnam Travel Photo Contest
ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA (ATA), a premier adventure travel company in Indochina, has initiated a captivating photo contest titled "Vietnam in your heart is…" for global travelers. This contest invites participants to submit their most memorable travel photos from Vietnam, offering a chance to win exceptional prizes including luxury cruises and exclusive tours. The contest, which runs from November 12, 2012, to January 31, 2013, aims to showcase the unique beauty and cultural richness of Vietnam through the eyes of its visitors.
Exploring the Thrills of Adventure Travel
Adventure travel is not just about scaling mountains or rafting through raging rivers; it encompasses a broad spectrum of activities that can range from the serene, such as wine tasting tours, to the extreme, like motorcycling across the Ho Chi Minh trail in Vietnam. This form of travel is about stepping out of the familiar and embracing the unknown, offering enriching experiences that differ markedly from typical vacation pursuits.
Vietnam in Top 10 Cycle Routes Recommended by National Geographic
Vietnam's scenic route from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City has been recognized as one of the top ten cycle routes globally by National Geographic. This prestigious acknowledgment highlights the route's stunning landscapes, cultural richness, and challenging terrain, making it a must-visit for cycling enthusiasts.
