In the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, amidst the bustling streets and ancient temples, whispers of age-old traditions fill the air, especially as Tết, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, approaches. One such tradition, passed down through generations, revolves around the 12 zodiac animals and the belief that starting the year with the right foods can bring good fortune. Imagine sitting down for a New Year’s Eve feast, the aroma of auspicious dishes filling the air, each chosen carefully based on your zodiac sign—a promise of a prosperous year ahead. But what exactly should each zodiac sign indulge in? Let’s unlock the secrets of this intriguing custom!
Food Fortune for the Rat (1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008)
Known for their quick wit and resourcefulness, those born in the year of the Rat are encouraged to start the year with a plate of “Banh Chung,” the traditional Vietnamese sticky rice cake. As Professor Nguyen Lan Huong of the Hanoi Cultural Research Institute puts it in her book “Flavors of Fortune: Food and Tradition in Vietnam,” “The square shape of Banh Chung represents earth, symbolizing stability and abundance for the Rat.”
A plate of Banh Chung, the Vietnamese sticky rice cake
Food Fortune for the Ox (1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009)
Hardworking and reliable, the Ox benefits from a dish that reflects their strength. A hearty bowl of “Pho,” Vietnam’s beloved noodle soup, is believed to bring the Ox a year of good health and prosperity. The long noodles symbolize longevity, while the rich broth represents abundance.
Food Fortune for the Tiger (1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010)
For the courageous and adventurous Tiger, a platter of “Gỏi Cuốn,” fresh spring rolls, is an ideal choice. Each bite, bursting with fresh herbs and flavors, signifies new beginnings and opportunities. Just as the Tiger fearlessly explores new territories, these rolls encourage embracing the unknown with optimism and zeal.
A platter of Goi Cuon, Vietnamese fresh spring rolls, ready to be enjoyed
Food Fortune for the Rabbit (1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011)
Gentle and peace-loving Rabbits can invite harmony into their year with a serving of “Xôi Gấc,” sticky rice with red gac fruit. The vibrant red color of this sweet treat is associated with luck and prosperity in Vietnamese culture, promising a year filled with joy and good fortune for the Rabbit.
Food Fortune for the Dragon (1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012)
The majestic Dragon, a symbol of power and good luck, can further enhance their fortune with “Thịt Kho Tàu,” caramelized pork belly and eggs. This rich and flavorful dish, often served during special occasions, is believed to attract wealth and success.
Food Fortune for the Snake (1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013)
Wise and intuitive Snakes are encouraged to savor “Canh Khổ Qua,” stuffed bitter melon soup. The slight bitterness of the dish, balanced by the savory broth, symbolizes overcoming challenges and emerging stronger, just as the Snake sheds its skin to reveal a newer, more vibrant self.
Food Fortune for the Horse (1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014)
Free-spirited and adventurous, the Horse can gallop into a year of good fortune with “Bún Chả,” grilled pork with vermicelli noodles. This light and flavorful dish represents agility and freedom, encouraging the Horse to embrace new experiences and opportunities.
Food Fortune for the Goat (1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015)
Known for their creativity and artistic nature, Goats can enhance their artistic flair with “Chè Chuối,” sweet banana soup. This dessert, with its playful combination of textures and flavors, is believed to inspire creativity and bring sweetness to the Goat’s year.
Food Fortune for the Monkey (1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016)
Clever and playful Monkeys can invite a year of joy and abundance with a plate of “Bánh Xèo,” crispy Vietnamese crepes. These savory pancakes, often filled with shrimp and bean sprouts, represent prosperity and good fortune.
Food Fortune for the Rooster (1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017)
Sharp and organized, the Rooster can ensure a year of success with “Miến Gà,” glass noodle soup with chicken. This clear and flavorful soup symbolizes clarity and focus, empowering the Rooster to achieve their goals.
Food Fortune for the Dog (1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018)
Loyal and dependable, Dogs can strengthen their bonds and invite harmony with “Nem Rán,” Vietnamese spring rolls. These crispy rolls, often shared amongst family and friends, represent unity and togetherness, strengthening the Dog’s relationships.
Food Fortune for the Pig (1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019)
Known for their generosity and love for good food, Pigs can enjoy a year of abundance with “Bún Bò Huế,” spicy beef noodle soup. The rich flavors and hearty ingredients symbolize prosperity and contentment.
A bowl of Bun Bo Hue, Vietnamese spicy beef noodle soup, garnished with fresh herbs
These food traditions, passed down through generations, offer a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Vietnam. Whether you’re a Rat savoring the symbolism of Banh Chung or a Pig relishing the hearty flavors of Bun Bo Hue, remember that these customs are meant to be enjoyed in the spirit of celebration and togetherness.
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