🍰dessert·Vietnam·Vietnamesemedium4 hours (including soaking)👥 8-10

Bánh Tét Trái Cây

About

A sweet variation of the traditional Vietnamese bánh tét, originating from the Mekong Delta. This version replaces savory fillings with tropical fruits like banana or durian, wrapped in glutinous rice and banana leaves. The result is a fragrant, slightly sweet cake with contrasting textures of sticky rice and soft fruit. Often served during Tết (Lunar New Year) as a dessert or snack.

Cultural Context

Bánh tét trái cây is a festive Mekong Delta specialty, particularly popular during Tết celebrations when sweet foods symbolize wishes for a sweet new year. The use of local fruits reflects the region's abundant tropical produce. Families often prepare large batches to share with relatives and neighbors.

Ingredients

500 gglutinous rice(soaked overnight)
2-3 wholebanana or durian(ripe but firm)
200 mlcoconut milk
100 gsugar
1 tspsalt
banana leaves(for wrapping, wilted over flame)

Method

1. Drain soaked rice and mix with coconut milk, sugar, and salt. 2. Prepare banana leaves and layer rice mixture with fruit slices. 3. Wrap tightly into cylindrical logs. 4. Boil o...

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Techniques Used

Regional Variations

Mekong Delta

Commonly uses banana, durian, or sometimes jackfruit

Central Vietnam

May include mung bean paste alongside fruit

Dietary

VegetarianGluten-FreeHalalcoconut

Sources

📖

Nguyen, AndreaInto the Vietnamese Kitchen: Treasured Foodways, Modern Flavors

2006cookbook
📖

Vietnam National Administration of TourismVietnamese Culinary Heritage

2019institution↗ link

Research Evidence

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