History and Significance
Banh Tet in Southern culture is not only a traditional dish but also a profound symbol of the spirit and identity of the region. From the first days of its appearance, tacos have been associated with the lives of the people of the South during Tet holidays and long trips. Originating from a simple recipe with glutinous rice rolled in banana leaves, the original purpose of tacos was to preserve food for a long time, serving for reclamation work or long trips without worrying about food spoilage.
More than a dish, tacos also contain deep cultural and spiritual meanings. On the occasion of Tet, tacos are not only food but also an object of worship, showing the devotion of children and grandchildren to grandparents and ancestors. The presence of tacos on the Tet tray is not only to enjoy but also to pray for a peaceful and prosperous new year. For the people of the South, tacos are also a symbol of family cohesion, when every Tet comes, everyone in the family gathers together, wraps cakes together, shares joy and hope for a good new year.
Creativity in how to make tacos
In recent years, tacos have seen a strong transformation and development, from preserving traditional values to constantly creating and innovating to suit the increasingly diverse tastes and preferences of consumers. The creativity in how to make tacos is not only reflected in the ingredients but also in the way the cake is wrapped and the processing method, creating unique and rich variations in flavor.
Provinces and cities in the South such as Tra Vinh, Binh Duong, Tay Ninh, Dong Nai, Soc Trang,... has contributed to this refreshing process by creating signature versions of tacos that reflect local specialties and culture. Tra Cuon tacos from Tra Vinh are famous for their fragrant coconut filling, while flat nuggets from Soc Trang are attracted by the sweet and fatty taste of flat nuggets combined with soft fragrant glutinous rice.
The combination of traditional ingredients such as glutinous rice, mung beans, pork with new ingredients such as cashews, coconut, bananas,... and even the addition of local spices and herbs that have created unique flavors that cannot be found anywhere else. Soaking glutinous rice with coconut milk, pandan leaves or even moringa leaves before wrapping the cake not only helps the cake have a characteristic aroma but also makes the color of the cake more eye-catching and attractive.
The way to wrap tacos requires ingenuity and meticulousness. Banana leaves are usually stacked and folded so that they form a rectangular or square mold, inside which is placed a layer of soaked glutinous rice, followed by the filling and finally another layer of glutinous rice. After placing all the layers, the wrapper will roll the banana leaves tightly and tie them tightly with rope, ensuring that the cake does not open or fall out when cooking. The meticulousness and ingenuity are not only reflected in the form of the cake but also directly affect the quality and taste of the cake when enjoyed.
Finally, the tacos will be boiled or steamed for many hours to ensure that the glutinous rice is cooked soft, and the filling is evenly absorbed with spices. The process of making tacos is not only the preparation of a dish, but also an art, requiring patience and love for traditional cuisine.
Photo: Ivivu
Tet Cake Culture during Tet
In the chilly atmosphere of the last days of the year, when everyone is busy preparing for the Lunar New Year, banh tac - one of the unique culinary symbols of Southern Vietnam, once again affirms its indispensable position in Tet culture. Banh Têt also contains spiritual values, reflecting the beauty in customs and affection of family and friends.
On Tet, the preparation and wrapping of tacos becomes a family ritual, when people from old to young gather together to share their work. This is not only an opportunity to teach the younger generation baking skills, but also an opportunity for them to understand more about traditional values and the importance of preserving national cultural identity. Every movement of wrapping the cake, from choosing banana leaves, arranging the filling, to tying each cake, has a symbolic meaning of care, meticulousness and love.
Tacos are also an indispensable item on the ancestral altar on New Year's Eve, expressing the gratitude and reverence of children and grandchildren for their deceased grandparents and ancestors. This not only reflects the belief in blessings and peace from ancestors but also a way for each person to show their respect and wish for a lucky and prosperous new year.
After offering to the ancestors, the tacos will be shared with friends and relatives. This action is not only an expression of generosity, but also a way to show affection, respect and the desire to share the joy and warmth of one's family with others. Each piece of tacos, when shared, is also a good wish that everyone wants to send to each other.
According to travelsig.vn