Bánh Đúc Nóng – The Taste of Hanoi Cuisine

Also known as Plain Rice Flan, is a traditional dish that has been around for a long time with the main ingredients being bánh đúc, peanuts, tofu, minced meat stir-fried with wood ear mushrooms, herbs, dried onions, and sweet and sour dipping sauce or bone broth. It is a savory bánh đúc nóng typically served hot and enjoyed for breakfast or brunch. The dish is characterized by its soft, chewy texture, comforting warmth, and rich flavor profile.

Although the way to enjoy bánh đúc can be different depending on the place where it is sold, the unique flavor of this dish is almost completely preserved over the years.

History

The exact origins of bánh đúc nóng are not exactly documented, but it is believed to have emerged in the northern villages of Vietnam around the Red River Delta. The dish’s simplicity and the reliance on readily available ingredients suggest its roots in rural cooking practices.

Over time, bánh đúc nóng has gained popularity and spread to the bustling city of Hanoi, becoming a staple breakfast and brunch item. Its affordability, adaptability, and comforting warmth resonated with locals, making it an integral part of Hanoi’s culinary identity.

Specialties

  • Soft and Chewy Texture: The hallmark of bánh đúc nóng is its soft and chewy texture, achieved through the use of glutinous rice flour. The steaming process further enhances the delicate consistency, creating a delightful contrast to the savory toppings.
  • Rich Flavor Profile: The savory toppings, typically a combination of ground pork, wood ear mushrooms, and fried shallots, provide a hearty and flavorful contrast to the delicate bánh đúc nóng. Fish sauce, sugar, and pepper further enhance the overall flavor, creating a well-balanced and satisfying dish.
The bowl of bánh đúc looks delicious and eye-catching
  • Comforting Warmth: bánh đúc nóng is typically served hot, adding to its comforting appeal. The warmth of the bánh đúc nóng and the savory aroma of the toppings create a cozy and inviting experience, making it a popular choice for breakfast or brunch on chilly mornings.
  • Versatility and Customization: bánh đúc nóng is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit individual preferences. The amount of toppings and seasonings can be adjusted to accommodate varying tastes, allowing for a personalized culinary experience.
  • Cultural Significance: bánh đúc nóng is more than just a delicious dish; it’s a culinary emblem of Hanoi. Its presence in the city’s food culture dates back generations, representing the city’s heritage and deep connection to traditional Vietnamese cuisine.

Main ingredient

Bánh đúc nóng is not only a delicious and satisfying dish but also offers nutritional value
  • Glutinous rice flour: The primary ingredient, responsible for the soft, chewy texture of bánh đúc nóng.
  • Water: Binds the flour particles together and creates a smooth batter for steaming.
  • Savory toppings: Typically peanuts, tofu, minced meat stir-fried with wood ear mushrooms
  • Sweet and sour dipping sauce or bone broth: Enhance the overall flavor profile, creating a balanced and satisfying dish.
  • Optional toppings: Chopped cilantro, chili peppers, or dried onions for additional aroma and spice.

Recommend some places to enjoy

Bánh đúc nóng is not only a delicious and satisfying dish but also offers nutritional value. Glutinous rice is a good source of carbohydrates and provides energy, while ground pork and vegetables add protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

  • Bánh đúc nóng 249 đội cấn: Bánh đúc here is served both cold and hot. The bowl of bánh đúc here is hot and fragrant, the cake is soft and smooth, the filling is plump, well-seasoned, and suits the taste of most diners.

Address: No. 249 Doi Can Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi

  • Bánh đúc nóng Nguyễn An Ninh: Here, you will be able to witness firsthand the process by which the shop owner makes a bowl of bánh đúc nóng before serving it to customers.

Address: No. 73 Nguyen An Ninh Street, Hoang Mai District, Hanoi

  • Bánh đúc nóng Hàng Bè: This is one of the most famous and oldest places in Hanoi. 

Address: No. 28 Hang Be Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi

If you are looking for a delicious and authentic Vietnamese dish, Bánh đúc nóng is a great option. It is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is sure to please everyone.

Get an opportunity to enjoy wonderful Vietnamese cuisine through Vietnam E-Visa!