Coconut Steamed Rice with Baby Shrimp (Cơm dừa tép rang)

Cơm dừa tép rang is a traditional dish originating from Ben Tre, famous for its coconuts. The dish consists of rice that’s steamed in a coconut and served with roasted baby shrimp on the side. The top of the coconut is cut off and the juice is taken out.

The rice is soaked in the same coconut juice before it’s placed inside the coconut with coconut juice and additional ingredients such as carrots, onions, herbs, lotus seeds, peas, or pieces of squid. The lid is placed back on the coconut and it’s steamed until the ingredients inside are fully cooked and the flavors blend together.

The rice should be golden and fragrant. The dish is served with shrimps that have been caramelized with coconut juice and selected seasonings.