B2. Pyramid Steamed Dumpling

Bánh Giò is a beloved traditional Northern Vietnamese snack that perfectly embodies the delicate artistry of Hanoi street food. These charming pyramid-shaped dumplings are made from a silky, smooth rice flour batter that is steamed to create a soft, slightly chewy, and translucent wrapper. Each bánh giò is lovingly wrapped in fresh banana leaves, which impart a distinctive earthy, herbal aroma that infuses the entire dumpling during the steaming process. Inside the delicate wrapper lies a savory, juicy filling made from finely minced pork, wood ear mushrooms (mộc nhĩ), fragrant shallots, and sometimes a small quail egg or pieces of Vietnamese sausage. The filling is seasoned with fish sauce, black pepper, and a touch of sugar, creating a harmonious balance of savory, umami-rich flavors with subtle sweetness. When you unwrap the warm banana leaf, the aroma that rises is irresistible — a beautiful blend of steamed rice, fragrant leaves, and savory meat. The soft, glossy exterior gives way to the moist, flavorful filling with a wonderful contrast in textures. Many people enjoy Bánh Giò with a simple yet delicious dipping sauce made from soy sauce, chili, and lime, or paired with slices of chả lụa (Vietnamese pork sausage) for extra richness. Bánh Giò is traditionally a breakfast or afternoon snack, commonly found at small street stalls and traditional markets in Hanoi. Making these dumplings is often a family affair — a labor of love passed down through generations. The banana leaf not only serves as a natural wrapper but also acts as a flavor enhancer, making each bite deeply aromatic and comforting. Simple yet refined, Bánh Giò represents the understated elegance of Northern Vietnamese cuisine: humble ingredients transformed through careful technique into something truly special. One bite of these warm, fragrant dumplings brings you straight into the heart of Hanoi’s culinary soul. Ingredients: Rice flour, ground pork, wood ear mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms, onion, black pepper, wrapped in banana leaves