Five-color Sticky Rice

Five-color Sticky Rice is a significant dish among various ethnic minorities in the mountainous regions of Northern Vietnam. The dish is named for its five distinct colors.

Different regions and ethnic groups have their own names for this dish. For instance, the Muong ethnic group refers to it as Multi-color Sticky Rice, while the Tay ethnic group calls it Five-color Sticky Rice. Other ethnic groups may know it as Dam Den Sticky Rice, among other names. During festival days or special occasions, women collect specific leaves that produce vibrant colors to create this unique and appealing dish.
Photo: poliva.vn

Importantly, the colors of the rice are derived from natural leaves rather than artificial substances. Each of the five colors signifies one of the five elements in Vietnamese belief: yellow represents earth, green symbolizes plants, red indicates fire, white stands for metal, and black represents water. These five elements are thought to contribute to the harmony of heaven, earth, and humanity. To achieve the desired color, locals gather specific leaves, which are then boiled and mixed with rice in a large bowl, resulting in the beautiful multicolored sticky rice.
Photo: luhanhvietnam.com.vn

In previous times, women ventured into the forests to source these leaves. Fortunately, in 2025, Five-color Sticky Rice has evolved into not only a traditional dish but also a delightful specialty celebrated by travelers from all over the globe. In response to its popularity, many households have begun cultivating these colorful plants in their gardens, allowing them to sell the vibrant leaves at local markets. These naturally occurring leaves are now essential for creating the exquisite sticky rice that continues to captivate all who taste it.