If you are planning a memorable trip to Vietnam, make sure to indulge in one of the country’s iconic culinary delights – green sticky rice, also known as “com” or in Vietnamese “Cốm”. This traditional dish is crafted from young sticky rice harvested in the vibrant autumn season and undergoes a sophisticated process to transform into the signature flat, green, and incredibly fragrant grains.
Origin of Vietnamese green sticky rice
Our culinary journey begins in the heart of Vong Village, located in Hanoi, Vietnam. This quaint village is renowned for its unique culinary specialty, com. It is here that the delectable dish finds its roots, with a fascinating origin story that traces back to a time of hardship.
Legend has it that during a period of heavy rains and fierce winds, the rice fields in Vong Village were submerged in water. In a bid to stave off hunger, the resourceful villagers decided to harvest the young rice grains, dry them, roast them, and consume them. What started as a reluctant survival strategy has now blossomed into a delectable delicacy with a flavor and charm like no other.
The experience and creativity of the villagers in working with these young rice buds led to the creation of greener, thinner, and more fragrant nuggets, now famously known as green sticky rice (com).
Craft of making green sticky rice
Green sticky rice – Com
Green sticky rice is an art form in itself, meticulously crafted from young glutinous rice, typically harvested in the late summer and early autumn months. Vong Village in Hanoi stands out as the custodian of the traditional method of making com.
The process begins with the careful selection of Vietnamese rice, which is then meticulously sifted and washed to create the perfect nuggets. This meticulous process is repeated seven times to ensure the removal of all husks, resulting in the production of flat, young, green, and immensely fragrant rice grains.
The uniqueness of this delicacy is further accentuated by its packaging in old lotus leaves. For those who seek an immersive experience, visiting Vong Village during the nugget-making season is a must. Here, you can soak in the rhythmic sound of wooden pestles pounding into mortars and witness the local experts sifting the young rice, all of which contribute to the exceptional quality of green sticky rice.
Dishes made from green sticky rice
Green sticky rice
When you venture to Vietnam, you will discover a myriad of dishes that encapsulate the essence of the country’s four distinct seasons. Among them, “che” is a name that frequently graces the realm of Vietnamese cuisine. If you are in search of an authentic “che” dish that embodies the essence of autumn, look no further than “green sticky rice.”
The pliability of these rice nuggets harmoniously combines with the texture of tapioca, creating a refreshing, rounded flavor that encapsulates the spirit of autumn. A hint of jasmine, along with the inclusion of green beans, lends an enticing fragrance to the dish.
For those with a penchant for traditional flavors, lotus seed com and basic com serve as excellent choices. Meanwhile, if you’re craving something heartier, sticky rice porridge offers a filling and cooling option. On the flip side, the roasted banana rice porridge is sure to capture the hearts of sweet-toothed enthusiasts.
Green sticky rice cake
Green sticky rice cake – Banh com
When “Banh Com” comes to mind, it’s often associated with wedding ceremonies. In many regions of the North, the groom’s family customarily orders rice cakes to present as gifts when asking for the bride’s hand in marriage. This delicacy is an indispensable part of wedding traditions.
On moonlit nights, families often gather to share the joy of each other’s company and enjoy these delicious, sweet rice cakes alongside a soothing cup of tea.
Sticky rice with lotus seeds, coconut, and green beans
Sticky rice with lotus seeds, coconut, and green beans – Xoi com
No Mid-Autumn Festival feast is complete without a serving of traditional sticky rice. However, the experience becomes all the more exquisite when you savor sticky rice infused with lotus seeds, coconut, and green beans.
The aroma of the sticky rice, combined with the fragrance of pandan leaves, is bound to ignite your appetite instantly. The striking combination of the green sticky rice’s hue, the yellow of the green beans, and the lotus seeds creates a visually appealing treat.
Indulging in a piece of this sticky rice, with its aromatic and sweet flavor, enhances the festivities of the Mid-Autumn Festival. Gathering with loved ones over a hot cup of tea and savoring this delightful dish adds a richer and more joyful dimension to the celebration.
“Com,” the Vietnamese green sticky rice, represents a time-honored culinary tradition that encapsulates the essence of autumn in Vietnam. The origin story, the meticulous craftsmanship, and the delightful dishes that spring from this humble grain make it an absolute must-try for anyone exploring the rich tapestry of Vietnamese cuisine. So, as you embark on your journey through Vietnam, don’t forget to savor the charm of “Green Sticky Rice (Com)” and experience a slice of authentic Vietnamese culture.
