White rose dumplings, an unmissable dish for those discovering Hoi An's rich gastronomic heritage, stand as a testament to the cultural fusion and longstanding culinary craftsmanship of this ancient town. Delicate yet flavorful, these intricately crafted dumplings encapsulate the essence of Vietnamese cuisine, inviting both locals and travelers to indulge in a culinary journey through the country's vibrant culinary scene.
1. What are white rose dumplings? How to make them?
White rose dumplings are a traditional dish hailing from the city of Hoi An in Vietnam. These delicate and visually striking dumplings are a popular Hoi An street food item and are often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer. Despite their name, they do not contain any roses; rather, the name "white rose" refers to their appearance, resembling a white rose in bloom.
So how to make rose dumplings? To make the dough, fresh and fragrant sticky rice is processed through multiple water filtrations. After the dough is properly kneaded, the chef shapes it into elongated forms, then cuts them into evenly sized pieces, using their fingers to flatten them into thin and beautiful wrappers.
There are two main variations of the white rose dumpling, and they are typically served together. One, known as "banh vac," features ground freshwater shrimp mixed with pepper, scallions, garlic, lemongrass, and spices. Another is "banh bao" typically comprising pork, spring onions, and sliced wood ear mushrooms. After shaping, the dumplings are carefully arranged in a steamer and cooked for approximately 10 to 15 minutes until done.
Once cooked, the dumplings are arranged together on a plate, decorated like a blooming white rose, with each layer adorned with a layer of snowy-white rice flour. The dipping sauce, a blend of sourness, spiciness, and sweetness, adds an irresistible aroma and enhances the delicious taste of the dumplings.
2. Origin of Hoi An’s white rose dumplings
White rose dumplings originate from a family within the city. The story begins with a retired royal maid who opened a vocational school for girls in Hoi An, educating young women in the art of cooking. One of the students was Pham Thi Dien, who later married Trinh Trieu Tam, a silk merchant. When the couple decided to create a special offering tray, Pham Thi Dien utilized the steaming technique of the Chinese but replaced wheat flour with quality rice to create a softer and chewier cake crust.
With the abundance of delicious shrimp in Hoi An, the couple innovated a filling made from ground shrimp combined with pork. They shaped the cakes like purses and named them “banh bao.” Another cake was created by stir-frying shrimp and meat with bean sprouts and onions, named “bánh quai vạc” or “bánh vạc.”
Initially, these cakes were only made on important death anniversaries within the Trinh family. Later on, their daughter, Trinh Thi Hue, sought permission from her parents to sell these cakes outside to make a living. She began producing and selling rose dumplings to shops and affluent families in the neighborhood.
>>> Make sure to add the iconic Hoi An's banh mi to your list of must-try foods!
3. Where to eat white rose dumplings in Hoi An?
White rose dumplings are commonly found on the menus of numerous dining spots throughout Hoi An, making them a must-have on any Hoi An itinerary. However, for an unparalleled culinary experience, a visit to Nhi Trung Street is highly recommended.
Here, these delicate delights are freshly baked and served steaming hot. Along this vibrant street, numerous households specialize in crafting various types of dumplings, including the renowned white rose dumplings, and supplying them to restaurants and eateries scattered across the historic district of Hoi An.
To indulge in the authentic flavors of this local delicacy, travelers are invited to visit the White Rose Restaurant, conveniently located in the heart of Hoi An's historic district. This establishment is famed for its dedication to preserving the traditional recipes and techniques passed down through generations. Here, diners can relish the delicate texture and subtle flavors of the dumplings, served with a tantalizing dipping sauce that perfectly complements the dish.
- Address: No. 533 Hai Ba Trung Street, Cam Pho Ward, Hoi An City
- Opening hours: 7:30 AM - 8:30 PM
White rose dumplings offer a delectable culinary experience that tantalizes the taste buds with their delicate flavor and exquisite presentation. From their rich historical roots to their modern-day popularity, white rose dumplings continue to captivate food enthusiasts worldwide. With their blend of tradition and innovation, these dumplings stand as a testament to the enduring appeal of culinary craftsmanship and cultural heritage.
While relishing the tantalizing taste of these dumplings, visitors can also explore myriad attractions in Hoi An, such as the well-preserved Hoi An Ancient Town, the historic My Son Sanctuary, the pristine An Bang Beach, and the serene Hoi An Coconut Village. For those seeking an exhilarating excursion, hop on a boat to the Cham Islands or visit VinWonders Nam Hoi An, an entertainment complex offering a plethora of thrilling rides and attractions. These destinations promise endless enjoyment for both family and friends.
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