Introduction to Bánh Cốm

Bánh cốm is one of the signature sweet dishes of Hanoi, offering not only delightful flavors but also rich cultural and historical significance. Made from cốm (green sticky rice), bánh cốm is more than just a dessert; it represents a part of the memory, evoking the serene autumn mornings where each piece of cake carries the essence of home and family love.

Origin and History of Bánh Cốm

Bánh cốm has its origins dating back to 1865 when the ancestors of the Nguyễn Duy family created this cake in Yên Ninh village, a place renowned for its delicious bánh cốm. According to legend, this cake was designed to honor the homeland and express gratitude to the farmers who cultivated the fragrant green rice. Over time, bánh cốm has become a culinary symbol of Hanoi, cherished not only by locals but also recognized by visitors.

Ingredients of Bánh Cốm

Bánh cốm is crafted from the finest and freshest ingredients. The main components include:

• Cốm: This is the primary ingredient, typically sourced from Thái Bình province. Cốm is made from green sticky rice, harvested when the grains are still young and processed carefully to retain flavor and stickiness.
• Green Beans: The green beans used for the filling are carefully selected from the mountainous region of Sơn La, ensuring a rich and creamy texture.
• Coconut Milk: This adds moisture and a distinct flavor to the cake.
• Sugar: Used to provide natural sweetness to the bánh.
• Lotus Jam and Grated Coconut: These are added to enhance the flavor and richness of the filling.

The process of making bánh cốm is meticulous, as every step from ingredient selection to preparation requires precision and care.

Flavor of Bánh Cốm

The flavor of bánh cốm is truly unique and unforgettable. When you take a bite, you’ll experience the soft, chewy outer layer complemented by the sweet, creamy green bean filling. The fragrant aroma of coconut and other natural ingredients creates a delightful culinary experience. Each piece of bánh cốm is not just a treat; it’s a journey back to childhood memories, reminiscent of peaceful autumn mornings when mothers prepared these cakes for their children before school.

Top Places to Buy Bánh Cốm in Hanoi

If you’re looking for the best places to buy bánh cốm in Hanoi, here are some recommendations you shouldn’t miss:

• Bánh Cốm Làng Vòng Hà Nội Bà Hoản
  • Address: 36 – Alley 63, Xuân Thủy Street, Dịch Vọng Hậu, Cầu Giấy District
  • Price Range: From 5,000 VND
  • Note: This is one of the oldest bánh cốm brands in Hanoi, famous for its traditional flavors.
• Bánh Cốm Nguyên Ninh Hàng Than
  • Address: 11 Hàng Than, Nguyễn Trung Trực Street, Ba Đình District
  • Price Range: 6,000 VND – 8,000 VND
  • Note: Nguyên Ninh bánh cốm is known for its excellent quality and distinctive taste.
• Bánh Cốm Hàng Than Hà Nội Xưa Nay
  • Address: 60 Hàng Than, Ba Đình District, Hanoi
  • Price Range: 8,000 VND – 20,000 VND
  • Note: This shop offers delicious bánh cốm with rich, traditional flavors.
• Bánh Cốm Nguyên Sinh
  • Address: 20 Hàng Than, Nguyễn Trung Trực Street, Ba Đình District
  • Price Range: 7,000 – 10,000 VND per piece
  • Note: Known for handcrafted bánh cốm that retains traditional flavors.
• Bánh Cốm Hà Nội An Ninh
  • Address: 22 Hàng Than, Nguyễn Trung Trực Street, Ba Đình District
  • Price Range: 7,000 VND – 9,000 VND
  • Note: This shop is famous for high-quality bánh cốm and excellent service.
• Bánh Cốm Hà Nội Hồng Ninh
  • Address: 79 Hàng Than, Nguyễn Trung Trực Street, Ba Đình District
  • Price Range: 5,000 VND per piece
  • Note: Known for small, cute bánh cốm that are perfect for gifts.
• Bánh Cốm Bảo Minh
  • Address: 12 Hàng Than, Nguyễn Trung Trực Street, Ba Đình District
  • Price Range: 5,000 VND – 60,000 VND
  • Note: Bánh cốm here is made using a traditional recipe that is very popular.
• Bánh Cốm Hà Nội Ngọc Ninh
  • Address: 53 Hàng Than, Nguyễn Trung Trực Street, Ba Đình District
  • Price Range: 50,000 VND – 500,000 VND
  • Note: This shop is known for high-quality bánh cốm, often bought as gifts.
• Bánh Cốm Nguyên Hương
  • Address: 50 Hàng Than, Nguyễn Trung Trực Street, Ba Đình District
  • Price Range: 6,000 VND – 108,000 VND
  • Note: Bánh cốm here is made from fresh ingredients and is very popular.

Tips for Storing Bánh Cốm

Bánh cốm in Hanoi typically does not contain preservatives, so it can only be stored for 3 to 5 days from the time of purchase. Here are some tips for proper storage:

• Storage Location: Keep the bánh in a dry, clean place away from direct sunlight. Room temperature is the best option to maintain its softness.
• Avoid Refrigeration: Many people mistakenly store bánh in the refrigerator to prolong its shelf life, but this can cause the bánh to harden and lose its natural chewiness.
• Check Production Date: When purchasing bánh, be sure to ask the seller about the production date to ensure the bánh is still fresh.

Conclusion

Bánh cốm is not just a delicious treat but also an essential part of the culture and spirit of Hanoi. Each piece of bánh cốm evokes nostalgic memories of childhood and the warmth of family love. Be sure to experience this delightful cake to appreciate the elegance and tradition of Hanoi’s culinary scene, and don’t forget to bring home some of the best bánh cốm for yourself and your loved ones!