THANH HOA: In the last days of the lunar year, the traditional craft village of Trang Cat (Thanh Oai, Hanoi) is bustling with local farmers busy harvesting dong leaves for making chung cake for the Lunar New Year (Tet) festival. As Tet draws near, Trang Cat villagers enter their main harvesting season of dong leaves (Stachyphrynium placentarium) – used as a wrapping for various food items in Vietnamese cuisine, especially chung cake (glutinous square rice cake) – the traditional and indispensable Vietnamese dish during Tet. Chung cake is a traditional Vietnamese cake which is made from glutinous rice, mung bean, pork and other ingredients.

According to Vietnam News Agency, the vibrant activity in Trang Cat signals the importance of the dong leaf harvest to the local economy and cultural heritage. The leaves are not only essential for preparing chung cake, but they also represent a significant source of income for the villagers. As the demand for chung cake rises in anticipation of the Tet festival, farmers are working diligently to meet the needs of both local and regional markets.

The process of harvesting dong leaves is labor-intensive, requiring careful attention to ensure the leaves remain intact for wrapping. Villagers often work together in groups, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose during this busy period. The harvest season also attracts merchants from various regions, eager to purchase the high-quality dong leaves that Trang Cat is known for.

As the Tet festival approaches, the bustling activity in Trang Cat reflects the deep-rooted cultural traditions of Vietnam. The preparation and consumption of chung cake during Tet are symbolic acts that connect families and communities, underscoring the significance of the dong leaf harvest in preserving these cherished customs.