Hey there! Ever heard of rice pancakes? In Vietnam, they're a big deal, and there's one village that's famous for making them extra special.

Let me tell you about My Long, a hidden gem in Ben Tre province. This place is like a wonderland of rice pancakes, known locally as "bánh tráng”. They've been making them here for ages, passing down the secrets from parents to kids, and keeping the tradition alive.

My Long Rice Paper Village: A Vietnamese Off-the-beaten-track Rice Pancake Paradise

Imagine strolling through the village. The air smells incredible – like freshly steamed pancakes and maybe a hint of coconut. You'll see folks using cool tools to grind the rice and turn it into a smooth batter. Then, they expertly spread it out on trays and steam it to perfection. The resulting pancakes are thin, light, and oh-so-versatile!

 

Who Knew Rice Pancakes Could Have Such a History?

Ever wonder how a simple rice pancake could have such a rich history? Buckle up, because we're taking a time travel trip to My Long Rice Pancake Village, a village in Vietnam where these tasty treats have been superstars for over a hundred years!

The exact date things kicked off is a bit fuzzy, but we know folks in My Long have been whipping up these "bánh tráng" for ages. Imagine families back in the day using their overflowing rice harvests to create a yummy and versatile snack. You can practically picture recipe secrets whispered down from parents to kids, with tips and techniques shared around crackling fires!

Over time, the pancake-making magic in My Long got a serious upgrade. Maybe folks in nearby villages shared their ideas, or maybe trade routes brought in new flavors and techniques.  The addition of coconut milk, a key ingredient in My Long's pancakes today, might have been a cool innovation from that time.

Fast forward through the years, and the village's reputation for these amazing rice pancakes soared. More families likely jumped on the pancake-making train, solidifying My Long's status as a center for all things "bánh tráng." The tradition became deeply woven into the village's identity, with knowledge and skills passed down like family heirlooms.

The 20th century might have thrown some curveballs, like wars and economic shifts. But the people of My Long persevered, probably adapting their craft while keeping the heart of the tradition alive.

Today, My Long Rice Paper Village is experiencing a comeback for the ages! Tourism is booming, and there's a growing appreciation for traditional Vietnamese cuisine. This means the spotlight is shining brighter than ever on the village's unique pancake-making skills.

What is so special about My Long Rice Paper Village?

The magic of My Long Rice Pancake lies in its meticulous preparation, starting with the selection of the finest ingredients. The key ingredient, rice, a unique variety from Tra Vinh, is carefully chosen for its superior quality and ability to produce pancakes with an exceptional texture. This rice is then thoroughly washed and milled into a fine batter, ensuring a smooth and consistent base for the pancakes.

Equally important is the selection of other ingredients, each contributing to the unique flavor profile of My Long Rice Pancake. Fresh coconuts, their meat grated and pressed to extract the rich coconut milk, add a touch of sweetness and creaminess. Sugar and salt are balanced to perfection, enhancing the natural flavors without overpowering them. And finally, sesame seeds, carefully chosen for their plumpness and flavor, are added to the batter, imparting a subtle nutty aroma and a delightful crunch.

The preparation of My Long Rice Pancake is an art form, passed down through generations, ensuring that the tradition remains true to its roots. The batter is carefully spread onto large trays and steamed to perfection, resulting in thin, delicate pancakes that are ready to be enjoyed in a myriad of ways.

Two distinct varieties of My Long Rice Pancake tantalize taste buds:

• Coconut milk rice paper: This variety is a delightful blend of coconut milk, eggs, and a hint of sugar, creating a rich and creamy flavor that is both sweet and savory.
• Dried shrimp coconut rice paper: For those seeking a savory treat, Bánh tráng dừa tôm khô is the perfect choice. Sun-dried shrimp, infused with the essence of coconut milk, adds a burst of umami flavor that perfectly complements the delicate rice pancakes.

The aroma of freshly grilled My Long Rice Pancake wafting through the air is an irresistible invitation to indulge in this culinary masterpiece. Whether rolled with savory fillings like grilled meats or shrimp, or enjoyed as crispy spring rolls or even a unique pizza base, these rice pancakes are a testament to the creativity and passion of the artisans of My Long.

So, if you find yourself in Vietnam, embark on a culinary adventure to Bến Tre and discover the magic of My Long Rice Pancake. Let the symphony of flavors and textures transport you to a realm of pure gastronomic delight, and savor the taste of a tradition that has stood the test of time.

How to reach and tips?

Here's how you can get to My Long Rice Pancake Village:

From Ho Chi Minh City:

There are many buses that travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Ben Tre. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. You can find buses leaving from Ben Xe Mien Dong station.

Once you arrive in Ben Tre, you can take a taxi or “xe om” (motorbike taxi) to My Long Rice Pancake Village. The village is located in Giong Trom district, about 10 kilometers from Ben Tre city center. The ride should take approximately 20 minutes.

Tips:

• If you don't speak Vietnamese, it might be helpful to have the address of My Long Rice Pancake Village written down in Vietnamese to show to the taxi driver. The address is: Xóm 3, ấp Mỹ Lồng, xã Mỹ Thạnh, huyện Giồng Trôm, tỉnh Bến Tre, Vietnam
• It's also a good idea to agree on the fare with the taxi driver before you get in the car.
• You can also rent a motorbike in Ho Chi Minh City and ride to Bến Tre yourself. However, this is only recommended if you are an experienced rider and comfortable riding in unfamiliar territory.

At Innoviet Travel, we celebrate the art of slow travel. Our expert guides ensure you see beyond the surface, crafting memories that linger long after your journey. Imagine gliding down tranquil canals, weaving through emerald rice paddies by bike, or immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of a floating market. The Mekong Delta awaits, revealing its tranquil rhythms to those who seek them.