An ancient Chinese delicacy eaten during the Mid-Autumn Festival or Moon Festival, known as mooncake, is a pie-like pastry made with a shortcrust base called yueh ping that is traditionally filled with black sesame seed or lotus seed paste, along with red beans, roasted pork, mung beans, dates, and salted duck egg yolks.
Nowadays, mooncakes are available in a variety of different sweet and savory fillings, some of which are fruits like honeydew, litchi or pineapple; chocolate or mixed nuts; abalone and seaweed; green tea, and even cream cheese or ice cream. Their round shape is not only reminiscent of the moon, but also a symbol of return or a full circle, which in Chinese philosophy stands for fulfillment, oneness, perfection, and unity.
VARIATIONS OF Bánh trung thu
Bánh hạt dẻ is a popular Vietnamese snack originating from the mountainous Sapa region. It's made by filling a pastry shell with ground local chestnuts that are lightly sweetened, then fried in oil until golden brown and flaky. This popular snack is regularly sold at most street food stalls in the region, but it can also be bought in boxes and prepared in the comfort of your own home.
In recent years, bánh hạt dẻ surfaced to the top as the main street food item in Sapa.
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Pâté chaud, also known as "pa tê sô" in Vietnamese, is a savory pastry with French origins that is popular in Vietnamese cuisine. It consists of flaky puff pastry filled with a seasoned mixture of ground pork, onions, and various spices, but recipes do vary.
The pastries are baked until golden brown and crispy, making them a delightful snack or appetizer. The combination of the buttery, flaky crust with the savory, flavorful filling provides a delicious and satisfying treat, often enjoyed warm.
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