Banh it - A dish imbued with rustic flavor, deeply rooted in the countryside.

"Banh it" is not an unfamiliar dish. However, the version found in Quang Nam province carries a unique flavor that captivates and leaves a lasting impression on anyone who tastes it for the first time.

 

"Banh it" doesn't boast eye-catching appearance or vibrant colors like other cakes; it's simply wrapped in plain banana leaves.
Inside the humble banana leaf wrapper lies a soft and chewy rice cake layer with a sweet, golden mung bean filling. The flavor is a harmonious blend of sweetness from sugar and a hint of spiciness from ginger, creating an incredibly unique harmony. When you indulge in it, you'll notice the refreshing, chewy texture of the rice cake layer and a subtle fragrance from the galangal leaves, offering a truly special and enticing experience despite using extremely simple 

"Banh it" are made from natural ingredients and do not contain preservatives, so they are typically stored for about 3 days at room temperature in dry, cool conditions. If stored in the refrigerator, the shelf life can be extended to about 10 days. Before enjoying, simply steam them in a steamer, and you'll have a warm, delicious treat ready to eat.

In Quang Nam province, there are many well-known bakeries that produce "Banh it" to serve tourists in Hoi An and neighboring provinces and cities. You can visit these bakeries directly to observe and understand the production process yourself. Additionally, purchasing directly from the bakery will often save you money and sometimes even offer the opportunity to taste the cakes before making a decision to buy. Some reputable bakeries where you can buy "Banh it" include Ba La Bakery, Ba Tu Mua Bakery, etc., in Cu Lao Cham.

Along the roadsides of Quang Nam province, especially near famous tourist attractions, there are numerous stalls and vendors selling "banh it". The cakes are stacked in trays and prominently displayed by the roadside. You can easily stop by and purchase some cakes to take away as gifts.



"Banh it" have become an indispensable part and a source of pride for the people of Quang Nam. Although they may not have an exceptionally distinct flavor, every visitor who comes here and enjoys this type of cake will forever remember its distinctive taste. Many even try their hand at making these cakes themselves and turn them into meaningful gifts for their loved ones.