Banh Chung (Chung cake or square rice cake)

History and Legend

The origin of Banh Chung can be traced back to the Hong Bang Dynasty, during the reign of the 6th Hung Emperor. Believing he was too old to lead the country, the Hung Emperor sought a worthy successor from among his 21 sons. He decided to hold a cooking contest where his sons would compete to create dishes that matched his taste.
Photo: daynauan.info.vn 

Vietnam's iconic Square Cake emerges with its glossy green appearance once removed from the steaming pot.

While most princes embarked on journeys to find extravagant and exotic ingredients, Lang Lieu, the 18th son of the Hung Emperor and the least affluent of his siblings, decided to remain at home. Orphaned at a young age, he lacked the resources to compete. However, with inspiration from a fairy in his dreams, he created two types of cakes: Banh Chung and Banh Day. He carefully followed the guidance he received in his slumber. On the spring day when the contest was held, Lang Lieu and his wife presented Banh Chung and Banh Day to the emperor, while the other princes displayed their more lavish delicacies.
Photo: webnauan.vn

Although others mocked Lieu's creations, the Hung Emperor was captivated by the unique flavors of his cakes. When asked about their significance, Lieu explained that Banh Day, a round rice cake, represented the heavens, while Banh Chung, a square rice cake filled with mung bean paste and pork, symbolized the earth. Pleased by the depth of meaning behind his dishes, the Hung Emperor declared Lang Lieu the winner, and from that day forward, Banh Chung and Banh Day became essential traditional foods during the Tet holiday.

Banh Chung Today

Banh Chung can be enjoyed as is or fried to create ‘Banh Chung Ran’—a delightful treat perfect for the chilly February weather in Vietnam. In southern regions, Banh Chung is often wrapped in a cylindrical shape with the same ingredients and is known as ‘Banh Tet.’ Another variation, ‘Banh Tay’ or ‘Banh Chung Dai’ (Long Banh Chung), is unique to the North, typically made with mung beans and little or no pork, allowing for longer preservation. There are numerous variations of Banh Chung due to regional and cultural preferences, such as Banh Chung Gu (Humped Banh Chung) favored by the San Diu people or Banh Chung Chay (Vegetarian Banh Chung) for vegetarians and Buddhists, and even Banh Chung Ngot (Sweetened Banh Chung).
Photo: blog.wikilady.vn

Fried Chung Cake

(Fried Chung Cake is a popular variation of Vietnamese Square Cake)

In traditional Vietnamese culture, the preparation of Banh Chung provides a cherished opportunity for families to gather. They sit around a warm fire, sharing stories from the past and preparing for the New Year with an abundance of good wishes. Although fewer Vietnamese families continue this practice today, Banh Chung remains a staple offering at ancestor altars during Tet, symbolizing devotion and deep respect for their forebears.

The significance of Banh Chung has been captured in poetry:

'Thịt mỡ, dưa hành, câu đối đỏ

Cây nêu, tràng pháo bánh chưng xanh'

Translation:

'Rich meats, Salty onions, red couplets

Nêu tree, firecracker, green banh chung.'

Related Readings:

• Food for Vietnamese Tet holiday
• Boiled Chicken - An Essential Part of Vietnam Tet