What Is Xôi Xéo?
Xôi Xéo is one of the most beloved traditional breakfast dishes in Hanoi. It features glutinous sticky rice cooked with turmeric for a signature yellow hue, topped with smooth mung bean paste, crispy fried shallots, and a drizzle of aromatic fat (usually chicken or pork lard). It’s often served wrapped in banana leaves and eaten on the go.
Xôi xéo is a traditional Vietnamese dish, especially popular in Hanoi.
Ingredients of Xôi Xéo
Glutinous rice (sticky rice)
Turmeric powder
Peeled mung beans
Shallots (thinly sliced and fried)
Chicken fat or lard
Optional toppings: Vietnamese sausage (giò lụa), pork floss (ruốc), or pâté
This dish is made from fragrant, sticky yellow glutinous rice, mung beans, and crispy fried shallots, creating a distinctive and appealing flavor.
What Makes Xôi Xéo Special?
Bright yellow color from turmeric gives it a distinct look.
Creamy mung bean paste adds a soft texture and nutty taste.
Crispy shallots provide depth and crunch.
Portable and satisfying, often enjoyed for breakfast on busy Hanoi mornings.
Reflects the delicate balance of flavor and presentation in Northern Vietnamese cuisine.
Xôi xéo is a familiar breakfast dish and an indispensable part of Hanoi’s culinary culture.
Cultural Significance in Hanoi
Xôi Xéo isn’t just food—it’s nostalgia. For many locals, the smell of warm sticky rice and fried shallots in banana leaf wrappers brings back memories of school mornings, family meals, or street corners in the Old Quarter. It’s a humble dish that quietly showcases the soul of Hanoi’s culinary tradition.
Xôi xéo is a simple dish but deeply reflects Vietnamese food culture, making it a great choice for breakfast or anytime you want to enjoy a tasty and filling meal.
Whether you try it from a street vendor in Hanoi or recreate it at home, Xôi Xéo offers a unique, comforting experience. It’s a beautiful blend of color, texture, and flavor that proves Vietnamese cuisine can be both simple and deeply satisfying.
