Rice

For Vietnamese, rice is much more than a staple food; it is a cornerstone of traditional culture and a driving force behind Vietnam's history. Rice is not only the most consumed grain in the country, forming the basis of nearly every Vietnamese meal, but it also sustains the population and reflects the beauty of Vietnamese heritage. Thus, rice serves as an unofficial symbol of Vietnam.

Photo: @jeep_it_up_tour

Rice, a member of the cereal family, is extensively cultivated across Asia and constitutes a significant part of the caloric intake for many people in the region. In Vietnam, rice cultivation dates back to the Neolithic period, playing a crucial role in the establishment of the wet rice civilization that continues today. Its prominence is entwined with the evolution of Vietnamese society and economy, as the expansion of rice fields is often linked to national development.

Planting in rice terraces. Photo: @kmseetoh

Historically, rice was the primary food source for local communities. Today, however, it has become a critical agricultural commodity for Vietnam, generating billions of dollars in revenue through exports. The Mekong River Delta and Red River Delta remain the two most significant rice-producing regions in the country.

Rice field in Mekong River Delta. Photo: @marco.bouwer

Like bamboo, rice symbolizes the rural landscape of Vietnam. Traditional Vietnamese villages are often characterized by vast, golden rice fields, where diligent farmers dedicate their lives to rice cultivation. Although much agricultural land has been converted to industrial zones, rice continues to represent an essential aspect of the imagery associated with Vietnamese villages and cultural identity.

More: Use of Rice in Vietnamese Cuisines