Bánh tẻ

Bánh tẻ is a traditional Vietnamese rice cake, often used in ceremonies and celebrations. It is made from glutinous rice, mung beans, and wrapped in banana leaves. The cake is then steamed until it becomes soft and sticky. The name "bánh tẻ" translates to "hand cake", referring to the small, hand-sized portions in which the cake is often served.

Ingredients and Preparation

The main ingredient in bánh tẻ is glutinous rice, which is soaked in water before being ground into a fine paste. This paste is then mixed with mung beans that have been soaked, boiled, and mashed. The mixture is then wrapped in banana leaves, which give the cake its distinctive flavor and aroma. The wrapped cakes are then steamed until they become soft and sticky.

Cultural Significance

Bánh tẻ holds a significant place in Vietnamese culture. It is often used in ceremonies and celebrations, such as Tết, the Vietnamese New Year. The cake is also commonly used in ancestor worship, where it is offered as a symbol of respect and remembrance.

Variations

There are several variations of bánh tẻ, including bánh tẻ lá cẩm, which is made with magenta plant leaves, giving the cake a distinctive purple color. Another variation is bánh tẻ lá dứa, which is made with pandan leaves, giving the cake a green color and a unique flavor.

See Also

• Bánh chưng
• Bánh dày
• Bánh giò
• Bánh ít
• Bánh phu thê