Bánh Chưng is an iconic Vietnamese rice cake that holds deep cultural significance, particularly during Tết (Lunar New Year) celebrations. This square-shaped delicacy consists of glutinous rice wrapped around a hearty filling of mung beans and pork, all meticulously wrapped in dong leaves, which impart a subtle fragrance and the cake's characteristic green tinge.

According to Vietnamese folklore, Bánh Chưng was created by Prince Lang Liêu during the Hùng Kings' dynasty, around 1000 BC. When the king held a competition to find his successor, Lang Liêu created this dish to honor both the earth (represented by its square shape) and his ancestors. The king was so impressed by the cake's meaning and taste that he chose Lang Liêu as his heir.

The preparation of Bánh Chưng is a labor-intensive process that often brings families together. The glutinous rice is carefully soaked, while mung beans are split and cooked to a paste. Pork belly is cut into chunks and seasoned with black pepper and fish sauce. The dong leaves are cleaned and softened before being used to wrap the ingredients in a square shape, secured with bamboo strings. The cakes are then boiled for 12-14 hours, traditionally over a wood fire that's tended through the night.

While the traditional recipe remains the most popular, modern variations might include different meat fillings like chicken or Chinese sausage. Some versions cater to vegetarians by omitting the meat entirely and focusing on the mung bean filling. The size can also vary from small personal portions to large family-sized cakes.

In Vietnam, Bánh Chưng is typically served at room temperature, cut into wedges or slices. During Tết, it's placed on family altars as an offering to ancestors before being shared among family members. The cake can be eaten as is or pan-fried until crispy on the outside, which many consider a delicacy. It's often accompanied by dưa món (pickled vegetables) to balance its rich, savory flavors.

While Bánh Chưng is a cherished traditional food, it is quite calorie-dense due to its glutinous rice and fatty pork content. Those watching their caloric intake might want to enjoy it in moderation. The cake is naturally gluten-free, though individuals with pork allergies should opt for alternative fillings. Due to its dense nature and high carbohydrate content, diabetics should be mindful of portion sizes. When properly wrapped and boiled, Bánh Chưng can last up to two weeks at room temperature, making it a practical food for the long Tết holiday.