The Essential Mezes of Vietnamese New Year Celebrations

Vietnamese New Year, known as Tết Nguyên Đán or simply Tết, is the most significant celebration in Vietnam. It marks the arrival of spring and is a time for family reunions, honoring ancestors, and enjoying festive meals. Among the vibrant celebrations, traditional mezes play a pivotal role in enhancing the festive spirit. Here, we explore the essential mezes that are synonymous with Vietnamese New Year celebrations.

Bánh Chưng and Bánh Tét
One of the most iconic traditional dishes for Tết is Bánh Chưng and its cylindrical counterpart, Bánh Tét. Made from glutinous rice, mung beans, and pork, these square and cylindrical cakes symbolize the Earth and sky. Families often gather together to prepare these cakes, making them a symbol of unity and love. They are usually wrapped in bamboo leaves and boiled for several hours, imparting a unique flavor that resonates with the essence of Tết.

Xôi (Sticky Rice)
Sticky rice, or xôi, is another must-have dish during the Lunar New Year. It is often colored with natural ingredients, creating vibrant varieties like xôi gấc (red sticky rice) and xôi đậu xanh (mung bean sticky rice). The sticky texture symbolizes prosperity and togetherness, making it an essential offering on the family altar during Tết.

Giò Lụa (Vietnamese Pork Sausage)
Giò Lụa, or Vietnamese pork sausage, is a flavorful delicacy that often adorns Tết tables. This smooth and savory sausage is made from finely ground pork and spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and steamed until perfectly tender. It pairs well with rice or can be enjoyed on its own, making it a versatile dish loved by many.

Dưa Hành (Pickled Onions)
To balance the rich flavors of Tết meals, dưa hành, or pickled onions, play an essential role. These crunchy, tangy onions are made by soaking them in vinegar and sugar. They add a refreshing contrast to the heavier mezes, making them an indispensable condiment during celebrations.

Thịt Kho Tàu (Braised Pork with Eggs)
This delightful dish consists of pork belly and boiled eggs simmered in coconut juice, soy sauce, and spices. Thịt Kho Tàu is often served over rice and is known for its rich, savory flavor. It represents family harmony and prosperity, making it a staple at Tết gatherings.

Mứt (Candied Fruits)
No Tết celebration is complete without an array of mứt, or candied fruits. These sweet treats can include candied ginger, coconut, and various fruits like pomelo and watermelon. Mứt embodies the hope for a sweet and prosperous year ahead, and they are often displayed beautifully on festive trays, inviting guests to indulge in these delightful bites.

Chả Giò (Spring Rolls)
An absolute favorite during Tết, chả giò, or spring rolls, are golden-fried delights filled with a savory mixture of pork, vegetables, and vermicelli noodles. These crispy rolls are often served with dipping sauces, making them an enticing appetizer that showcases the culinary creativity present in Vietnamese cuisine.

Fruit and Nuts
Fresh fruits and mixed nuts also play a significant role in Tết celebrations. They are often displayed on family altars as offerings to ancestors, symbolizing abundance and good fortune for the coming year. Common fruits include oranges, which symbolize prosperity, and apples for health.

In summary, the mezes of Vietnamese New Year celebrations are not just food; they are cultural symbols rich with meaning and tradition. From Bánh Chưng to mứt, each dish carries a unique story and significance. Embracing these culinary delights during Tết not only honors cultural heritage but also creates cherished memories with loved ones, marking the start of a hopeful new year.