Ut Dzach fine rice vermicelli family business in Can Tho

Ut Dzach fine rice vermicelli family business in Can Tho

The ecotourism garden and Ut Dzach’s hammock-faced fine rice vermicelli family business have long been known among visitors as the foremost traditional vermicelli oven in the Mekong delta. Here, visitors can also experience hands-on the making of these special fine rice vermicelli. Let’s go to Ut Dzach fine rice vermicelli family business.

The ecotourism garden and hammock-facedUt Dzach Fine Rice Vermicelli Family Business is located at 509 Provincial Road 61B, Nhon Binh Hamlet, Nhon Ai Commune, Phong Dien District. It is approximately 15 km from the center of Can Tho City. To reach Phong Dien District, you pass through Vam Xang ferry, then reach Muong Ngang ferry dock. Turn right and follow the concrete road for about 30 meters, and you will arrive at the ecotourism garden and hammock-faced fine rice vermicelli oven.

Along the way to Ut Dzach’s ecotourism garden, visitors can experience the aroma of the river delta region with the cool green space of fruit orchards, clusters of purple morning glory flowers, or the refreshing riverside.

Mr. Tran Thien Canh, son of the artisan Chau Kim Thuan, shared that his family’s hammock-faced fine vermicelli has been a longstanding traditional craft for over 50 years. This type of fine vermicelli is distinct from others due to its sweet and salty taste, its chewy texture, and the absence of additives. It is named “hammock-faced” because the pattern resembles the intricate netting of a hammock, showcasing the skillful craftsmanship of its makers.

According to artisan Chau Kim Thuan, in the past, making fine rice vermicelli was solely for serving within the family and helping neighbors during ceremonies and celebrations, rather than for sale. It was later, at the suggestion of her children, that she considered processing fine rice vermicelli for commercial purposes. Eventually, this evolved into an ecotourism destination attracting tourists to Can Tho.

To complete a piece of hammock-faced fine rice vermicelli, the craftsman must go through several meticulous steps and accumulate experience. Firstly, selecting high-quality rice flour is crucial as it ensures the cake’s final texture and fragrance. Next, the flour is cooked on a low fire, stirred continuously until smooth, and then allowed to cool in the mortar repeatedly until it reaches the desired consistency.

Once the rice flour mixture is prepared, the next crucial step is the cake pressing process. This step is particularly unique and requires the skillful coordination of two people. The pressing tool consists of a large wooden bar with a lever mechanism underneath. One person uses their weight to slowly press the dough ball down, while the other deftly places a piece of banana leaf in a zigzag pattern to create the net-like design, resembling the mesh of a hammock. This process is a major attraction for tourists who come to participate in the experience.

After shaping, the cake is steamed for about 5 to 7 minutes. When taken out, it should be chewy and the dough inside should be cooked through.

The hammock-faced fine rice vermicelli is typically served with grilled meat, also prepared by the garden owner. The grilled meat has an appealing golden-brown color, with a slight layer of fat within the rolled meat, providing diners with a balanced, not overly greasy taste.

The hammock-faced fine rice  vermicelli is served on a plate with piping hot grilled meat, accompanied by a few aromatic herbs. To enjoy, you wrap the meat in the fine rice vermicelli, add some fresh herbs, and dip it into the dipping sauce. The natural sweet fragrance of the vermicelli blends harmoniously with the rich flavor of the grilled meat, creating an experience that delights tourists endlessly.

Moreover, visitors have the special opportunity to try their hand at making traditional hammock-faced fine rice vermicelli under the enthusiastic guidance of the host. This hands-on experience is quite fascinating because hammock-faced fine rice vermicelli is a type of folk cake not commonly found everywhere. The act of making and enjoying it firsthand brings tourists a sense of closeness and friendliness, imbued with the essence of the Mekong Delta countryside.

Besides this unique dish, when visiting the Ut Dzach ecotourism garden, tourists also have the chance to enjoy various countryside specialties such as rustic fermented fish hotpot, free-range chicken salad, and crispy pancakes.

When touring Can Tho, remember to visit the Ut Dzach ecotourism garden to leisurely stroll, breathe in the fresh air of the surrounding orchards, pick fresh fruits, and indulge in various delicious fruits from the garden. You can also relax in a hammock, enjoying peaceful moments in the countryside.