Beyond the time-honoured traditions cherished through generations, Vietnam’s Lunar New Year (Tết) is vividly reflected in its distinctive culinary culture. In Quang Ninh, the spring festive feast is not only a reunion meal but also a reflection of local produce, culinary craftsmanship, and a profound connection between people and their coastal and mountainous homeland.
In the days leading up to Tết, Ha Long squid cake production units operate at full capacity to meet rising market demand. As a representative specialty of the UNESCO-recognized heritage region, chả mực (Ha Long squid cake) is commonly featured in family reunion meals and is also favored as a premium gift, reflecting the flavour of the sea and the culinary sophistication of Quang Ninh. Fresh seafood such as shrimp, crab and squid further enhances the richness of the festive meal.
As a home to diverse ethnic communities, Quang Ninh also preserves distinctive traditional dishes of ethnic groups in the eastern region, including bánh chưng cơm lông (sticky rice cake mixed with special leaves (called cơm lông)), bánh coóc mò (a traditional leaf-wrapped glutinous rice dumpling, shaped like a small pyramid), five-colored sticky rice and khâu nhục (a highland-style braised pork belly delicacy). Together, these dishes create a vibrant culinary tapestry that reflects the spirit of reunion, and hopes for prosperity in the new year.
By Duy Khoa
