Tết Việt Nam: Từ phong tục đến ẩm thực

Tết, also known as Vietnamese New Year, is the most important celebration in Vietnamese culture. It is a time of renewal, family gatherings, and indulgence in traditional Vietnamese cuisine. This article will delve into the customs and culinary delights that make Tết a unique and vibrant festival.

<h2 style="font-weight: bold; margin: 12px 0;">The Customs of Tết</h2>

Tết, which is short for Tết Nguyên Đán, marks the arrival of spring based on the Vietnamese lunar calendar. The festival is deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture and is filled with a myriad of customs and rituals. One of the most significant customs is the cleaning and decoration of homes. Vietnamese people believe that cleaning their homes will get rid of bad luck from the old year, and decorating them with flowers, particularly yellow apricot blossoms and peach blossoms, will bring good fortune.

Another important custom is the preparation of a family altar to honor ancestors. Vietnamese people believe in the presence of ancestors' spirits and prepare offerings of food, incense, and other items to show respect and gratitude. The first few days of Tết are dedicated to family; this is a time when people visit their relatives, exchange New Year's wishes, and give lucky money to children and elderly people in red envelopes.

<h2 style="font-weight: bold; margin: 12px 0;">The Cuisine of Tết</h2>

Tết is also a gastronomic celebration. Traditional Vietnamese dishes are prepared and enjoyed during this festival, and each dish carries a special significance. One of the must-have dishes is Bánh Chưng, a square-shaped sticky rice cake filled with mung beans and pork. Bánh Chưng is wrapped in banana leaves and represents the earth, according to Vietnamese mythology.

Another popular dish is Mứt, a collection of candied fruits and seeds, symbolizing the wish for a sweet and prosperous year ahead. Other traditional dishes include Dưa Hành (pickled onions), Củ Kiệu (pickled small leeks), and Thịt Kho Nước Dừa (braised pork with eggs in coconut juice). These dishes are not only delicious but also represent the richness of Vietnamese culture.

<h2 style="font-weight: bold; margin: 12px 0;">The Significance of Tết</h2>

Tết is more than just a festival; it is a reflection of the values and traditions that define Vietnamese culture. It is a time when the Vietnamese express their respect for their ancestors and elders, show their gratitude for the blessings of the past year, and express their hope for a prosperous and happy New Year. The customs and cuisine of Tết are a testament to the Vietnamese people's love for their culture and their desire to preserve and pass on their traditions to future generations.

In conclusion, Tết is a vibrant and meaningful celebration that encapsulates the essence of Vietnamese culture. From the customs that honor the past and welcome the future to the traditional dishes that delight the palate and symbolize prosperity, Tết is a festival that truly represents the spirit of Vietnam. Whether you are Vietnamese or a visitor, experiencing Tết will give you a deeper understanding of Vietnamese culture and its people's warmth and hospitality.