Dish

Xôi ngũ sắc

Five-Color Sticky Rice

Xôi ngũ sắc is a visually stunning dish that is as delicious as it is beautiful. The different colors of the rice are achieved by using natural food colorings, which also add a subtle flavor to the dish. The topping of fried shallots, shredded coconut, and sesame seeds provides a crunchy texture and a savory flavor that complements the sweetness of the rice. Xôi ngũ sắc is typically served with a side of fresh fruit or a cup of hot tea.

Asian cuisine› Southeast Asian cuisine› Vietnamese cuisine

Rice Dish

Origins and history

Xôi ngũ sắc is a relatively new dish in Vietnam, having only gained popularity in recent years. It is often served at special events such as weddings or festivals, and is also sold by street vendors throughout the country.

Dietary considerations

Glutinous rice is gluten-free, making this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. However, the dish does contain fried shallots, which may not be suitable for those with certain dietary restrictions. Additionally, some natural food colorings may cause allergic reactions in some individuals.

Variations

There are many variations of xôi ngũ sắc, with different regions of Vietnam using different natural food colorings to achieve the different colors of the rice. Some variations include using butterfly pea flowers to create a blue color, or using matcha powder to create a green color.

Presentation and garnishing

Xôi ngũ sắc is traditionally served in a banana leaf or bamboo container, which adds to the dish's rustic charm. The topping of fried shallots, shredded coconut, and sesame seeds is arranged in a decorative pattern on top of the rice, and the dish is garnished with fresh herbs such as cilantro or mint.

Tips & Tricks

To make the perfect xôi ngũ sắc, it is important to use high-quality glutinous rice and natural food colorings. The rice should be soaked for at least 2 hours before cooking to ensure that it is fully cooked and has a soft, chewy texture. The topping should be fried until crispy and golden brown, and the dish should be served hot for maximum flavor.

Side-dishes

Fresh fruit is a common side dish served with xôi ngũ sắc, as it provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the rice. Other popular side dishes include sweetened coconut milk or a cup of hot tea.

Drink pairings

Xôi ngũ sắc is typically served with a cup of hot tea, which helps to balance out the sweetness of the dish. However, it can also be paired with a cold glass of soy milk or a refreshing fruit juice.