Pork head roll: A delicacy in the Tet food tray

Known by two names gio xao (stir-fried pork roll) and gio thu (pork head roll), pork ear roll is a dish often enjoyed during Tet (Lunar New Year) celebrations in northern Vietnam.

Pork ear roll is made from thinly sliced pork head meat, primarily ears and cheeks. Marinated with fish sauce and pepper, it is stir-fried with wood ear mushrooms until firm and golden.

Wrapped in banana leaves and cooled to set, it offers a blend of textures and flavours - crunchy ear and cheek, fragrant fish sauce and spicy pepper, with a hint of subtle banana leaf aroma.

In addition to its role in Tet celebrations, both pork rolls and pork ear rolls are enjoyed year-round as a complement to everyday dishes.