Dish

Cốm

Green Rice

Cốm has a unique flavor and texture that is unlike any other rice dish. The young rice grains have a slightly nutty flavor and a chewy texture that is similar to popcorn. The green color of the dish comes from the chlorophyll in the young rice grains, which also gives it a fresh, grassy aroma. Cốm is typically used to make sweet or savory dishes, such as cakes or porridge.

Asian cuisine› Southeast Asian cuisine› Vietnamese cuisine

Rice Dish

Origins and history

Cốm has been a traditional dish in Vietnam for centuries, and is often associated with the country's rural regions. It is typically made during the autumn harvest season, when the young rice grains are at their peak. Today, it is still a popular dish throughout the country and is often used in traditional Vietnamese cooking.

Dietary considerations

Gluten-free. May contain sugar or other ingredients that may not be suitable for certain dietary restrictions.

Variations

There are many variations of cốm, with different regions of Vietnam using it in different ways. Some popular dishes made with cốm include cốm cake, which is a sweet cake made with coconut milk and sugar, and cốm xào, which is a savory dish made with stir-fried vegetables and meat.

Presentation and garnishing

To make the perfect cốm, it is important to use high-quality young rice grains and to roast them until they are fragrant and slightly browned. The grains should then be pounded until they form a fine powder, which can be used in a variety of dishes. Cốm is typically presented in a small bowl or on a plate, with the green powder forming a small mound in the center. The dish is often garnished with fresh herbs such as mint or basil.

Tips & Tricks

Store cốm in an airtight container to preserve its freshness and flavor.

Side-dishes

Cốm is typically served as a dessert or snack, and is often paired with a cup of hot tea or a glass of sweetened coconut milk. It can also be used as a topping for ice cream or yogurt.