White rose dumplings are a special and famous dish in Hoi An. This wonderful city is not only known for its historical attractions and charming architecture but also its delicious cuisine. White rose dumplings are one of the must-try local foods for tourists. Join VM Car to explore more about this iconic dish and discover why it has become an essential part of every Hoi An travel experience in this article.
The origin of white rose dumplings
This dish was created about 130 years ago by a Chinese family. It has become a local specialty in Hoi An street food and has been carefully preserved, developed, and maintained until today. This type of dish is one kind of dimsum, so if you are a dimsum lover, this dish is always a must-try for you. Dimsum is available everywhere, but this unique dish can only be enjoyed in Hoi An.
According to long-standing artisans, in the past, based on the shape of the cake, people used to call this cake Hoi An’s cauldron dumplings. One day, a foreign guest came to Hoi An and enjoyed this dish. As soon as he saw the plate of cakes, the guest exclaimed, “The white roses are so beautiful”. Then, local people started calling this dish with a name that is extremely pretty, cheeky, but no less beautiful and elegant—White Rose Dumplings.
How to make white rose dumplings
Hoi An’s white rose dumplings are made very simply with extremely familiar ingredients. However, the important thing for you to make this dish successfully is perseverance, ingenuity, and meticulous attention to every smallest detail. So let’s explore how to make this dish with us now.
Make white rose dumplings crust
The crust of dumplings and cauliflower cakes is made from rice flour. However, if you want to make these white rose dumplings delicious, you need to use fragrant rice and firm grains. Then you should soak and wash thoroughly so that there are no husks or grit left. After that, you can grind the rice into flour.
Then, you need to let the powder settle to the bottom of the water, filtering out the water above. This step will take a bit of time. To make the dough delicious, you have to do it over and over again, about 15–20 times, until the dough settles and the remaining water is clear. Then this step is completed. You drain the water, knead the dough, and put it in a clean bowl.
Make filling of this unique dish
The fillings for Banh Bao and Banh Vac are completely different. Banh Bao is filled with crushed shrimp as the main ingredient, then formed into patties. It is seasoned with onions, pepper, and salt for a rich taste.
Banh Vac usually needs more filling; besides shrimp, there is also pork, wood ear mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms, bean sprouts, green onions, pepper, and spices. After that, putting these ingredients in the same bowl, mixing well, and stir-frying in a pan, you will have the complete Banh Vac filling.
How to shape white rose dumplings
When shaping this dish, if you don’t want to stick to the dough when making it, you can use cooking oil to spread it evenly on both hands. Then, you pick off each small piece of dough, use your fingers to shape the dough to form a very thin and even crust, and press with your thumb in the middle of the crust to get space for filling. After that, you can stuff the filling in and gently press the edges of the crust to cover the filling.
Once you’ve finished shaping the dumplings, place them in a steamer basket and steam them for about 10 to 15 minutes. When they’re fully cooked, carefully transfer them to a serving plate and enjoy your homemade White Rose Dumplings while they’re still warm. They taste even better when served with the traditional dipping sauce and crispy fried shallots on top.
How to present white rose dumplings
To make it easier for diners to pick up the cake, you can put a piece of banana leaf on a plate first and then put the cake on it. Banh Bao will be arranged in the center and then spread out around, and Banh Vac will be arranged alternately with the Banh Bao. Finally, spread a layer of crispy fried onions on the surface. This dish will be delicious if you enjoy it while it’s still hot and eat it with sweet and sour fish sauce.
When enjoying this dish, you will feel the softness of the crust, followed by the softness and rich sweetness of the shrimp and meat mixed with the extremely harmonious and delicious dipping sauce.
Where to eat white rose dumplings
There are several restaurants that serve this dish, and each restaurant will have their own recipe and way to cook it. The list we mention below that tourists can choose from to try these tasty white rose dumplings.
Bong Hong Trang Restaurant:
- Address: 533 Hai Ba Trung Street, Hoi An, Da Nang, Vietnam
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 08:30 PM
Hoi An Market:
- Address: The market is located at the intersection of Tran Phu Street, Bach Dang Street, and Nguyen Thai Hoc Street.
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
If you want to enjoy authentic local cuisine, Hoi An Market is a must-visit destination. Besides tasting delicious White Rose Dumplings, you can also try many other Hoi An specialties such as Mi Quang, wontons, Banh Dap, and sweet soups (che), all in one lively and authentic setting.
Street food vendors in Hoi An Ancient Town:
You don’t have to visit an upscale restaurant to enjoy authentic Hoi An White Rose Dumplings. This famous local specialty can also be found at small street food stalls throughout Hoi An Ancient Town, where locals have been serving it for generations. Its popularity among both residents and visitors makes it one of the must-try dishes when exploring Hoi An. If you want to experience the true flavors of the ancient town, don’t miss the chance to enjoy a plate of these delicious dumplings from a local street vendor.
If you’d like to enjoy White Rose Dumplings along with other famous Hoi An specialties, join the Hoi An Food Tour by VM Car. During the tour, you’ll have the chance to taste a variety of authentic local dishes, including Cao Lau, Banh Mi, Vietnamese Coffee, Tofu Pudding, Banh Khot, Banh Cuon with Pork, and delicious local desserts.
With our friendly local guide leading the way, you won’t have to worry about where to find the best food or how to get around Hoi An. Simply join the tour, relax, and immerse yourself in the unforgettable flavors and culture of this charming ancient town. Contact VM Car via WhatsApp at +84 975 952 918 to book your food tour today!
Conclusion
White Rose Dumplings are one of Hoi An’s most iconic and delicious local specialties. The delicate, translucent wrapper combined with the sweet and savory shrimp filling creates a light yet unforgettable flavor that will impress you from the very first bite. If you’re visiting Hoi An, this is definitely a dish you shouldn’t miss. VM Car hopes this guide has helped you learn more about this unique Hoi An specialty and inspired you to add it to your must-try food list during your trip.