Trang Luu - Sep 3, 2024

Xôi - Savoury sticky rice

Most underrated Vietnamese food

In Xôi Mặn, the sticky rice serves as the perfect canvas for an array of savory ingredients that range from meats to vegetables, creating a dish that is both filling and delicious.

Xôi Mặn: The Savory Delight of Vietnamese Cuisine

It’s always Pho, Banh Mi, and Goi Cuon spring rolls when we search for Vietnamese must-try food, but never Xôi. Among the vast array of Vietnamese foods, Xôi Mặn - Savoury sticky rice stands out in the local’s hearts as a savory delight that perfectly embodies the richness and depth of the country’s culinary heritage. It’s a dish that offers a hearty, satisfying meal. Xôi is enjoyed for all meals, breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

In this article, we'll explore what makes Xôi Mặn such a beloved dish in Vietnam, its various components, and why it deserves a spot on your must-try list, where or how to find it.What is Xôi Mặn?

Xôi Mặn, which translates to "savory sticky rice," is a variation of Xôi, a traditional Vietnamese dish made from glutinous rice, also known as sticky rice. Unlike the sweet versions of Xôi, Xôi Mặn is savory, featuring a variety of toppings that make it a complete, flavorful meal.

Sticky rice is a staple in Vietnamese cuisine, known for its chewy texture and ability to absorb flavors well. In Xôi Mặn, the rice serves as the perfect canvas for an array of savory ingredients that range from meats to vegetables, creating a dish that is both filling and delicious.

The Essential Components of Xôi Mặn

Choosing toppings for your Xôi Mặn is the same as choosing your bubble tea toppings. Here’s a look at some of the key ingredients commonly found in Xôi Mặn:

1. The sticky rice foundation

The base of Xôi Mặn is sticky rice, which is steamed to perfection. The rice is slightly sticky, yet firm, creating a chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the savory toppings. Choose among:

• Traditional sticky rice
• Tumeric sticky rice - xôi xéo
• Corn sticky rice - xôi ngô
• 5-colour sticky rice - xôi ngũ sắc

What is Five-colour sticky rice - Xôi Ngũ Sắc?

Xôi Ngũ Sắc is a traditional Vietnamese sticky rice dish that features five different colors, each symbolizing a different element or aspect of life. The rice is typically flavored and colored with natural ingredients, creating a beautiful and eye-catching dish that’s as delightful to eat as it is to look at.

Red: The red color is usually achieved with gấc (a type of Vietnamese melon) or red beet juice. This color symbolizes happiness and prosperity.

Yellow:
For the yellow color, turmeric is often used. This color represents wealth and success.

Green:
Pandan leaves are used to give the rice a green color and a subtle, aromatic flavor. Green symbolizes health and freshness.

White:
The white rice is the base color, representing purity and simplicity. It’s plain sticky rice, often steamed with a bit of salt.

Purple:
Purple is usually achieved with purple sweet potatoes or black beans. This color stands for harmony and balance.

2. Caramelised pork belly - thịt kho

The tender, juicy pork belly is slowly simmered in a rich, sweet, and savory caramel sauce that soaks right into the meat, making every bite melt in your mouth. It's one of those dishes that's just too good to resist! Paired with sticky rice, it’s the kind of comforting, flavorful meal you’ll want to enjoy again and again

3. Paté

Pâté on Xôi is typically made with pork and liver, fried until the fat melts, giving it that delicious, slightly smoky, burnt fat aroma. When spread over sticky rice, the rich and savory pâté adds a deep, satisfying flavor that complements the soft, chewy texture of the rice perfectly. It’s a simple yet indulgent combination that’s packed with comfort and flavor

4. Shredded Chicken (Gà Xé Phay):

Shredded chicken is another common topping for Xôi Mặn. The chicken is often poached and then shredded into fine strips. Sometimes, it is seasoned with fish sauce, lime juice, and chili to add a tangy kick that complements the richness of the sticky rice.

5. Pork Floss (Chà Bông):
   Pork floss, or chà bông, is a light and fluffy topping made from dried, seasoned pork that has been shredded into fine fibers. It adds a savory-sweet flavor and a unique texture to the dish, making it a popular choice among Xôi Mặn lovers.

6. Boiled Quail Eggs (Trứng Cút):
   Boiled quail eggs are often added to Xôi Mặn for extra protein and a touch of richness. These tiny eggs are cooked until just firm and are typically served whole, providing a creamy bite that contrasts with the other toppings.
7. Fried Shallots:
   Fried shallots are a must-have garnish for Xôi Mặn. Their crispy texture and sweet, caramelized flavor add depth to the dish, balancing the meats' richness and the sticky rice's chewiness.
8. Pickled Vegetables (Dưa Món):
   To balance the rich flavors of the savory toppings, Xôi Mặn is often served with pickled vegetables, such as pickled carrots and daikon radish. These tangy, crunchy pickles provide a refreshing contrast and help to cut through the richness of the dish.
9. Soy Sauce or Fish Sauce:
   Finally, a drizzle of soy sauce or fish sauce ties all the elements of Xôi Mặn together. The sauce adds a savory depth and a touch of umami that enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Why You Should Try Xôi Mặn

If you’re a fan of savory, meaty, hearty dishes, Xôi Mặn is a must-try. Its combination of chewy sticky rice, flavorful toppings, and contrasting textures make it a unique and satisfying meal that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Plus, it offers a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine, providing a window into the country’s rich culinary heritage.

Whether you try it in Vietnam or make it at home, Xôi Mặn is a dish that deserves recognition and appreciation. It’s a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness of Vietnamese cooks, who have turned simple ingredients into a dish that is both comforting and complex.

Where to find Xôi Mặn

1. Big branches : Xôi Yến, Xôi Tùng
2. Local guide: Xôi Bà Thu
3. On grab food