1. Home
  2. Destinations
  3. Ben Tre
  4. Food
  5. Cơm Dừa

Cơm Dừa

Table of Contents
  1. 1. Introduction
  3. 2. Ingredients
  4. 3. Cooking Method
  6. 4. How to Enjoy
  7. 5. Cultural Significance

1. Introduction

Bến Tre, famously known as the "land of coconuts" in southern Vietnam, is home to many creative and flavorful coconut-based dishes. Among them, cơm dừa—coconut rice—is a standout specialty. This dish is not only delicious but also beautifully presented, as it is steamed and served inside a whole coconut, making it both tasty and memorable.

2. Ingredients

Cơm dừa is made from simple, local ingredients, yet it carries a rich, tropical taste:

  • Jasmine rice or sticky rice

  • Fresh coconut water and thick coconut milk

  • Grated coconut flesh (optional, for extra aroma and texture)

  • A pinch of salt

  • Sometimes a bit of pandan leaf or sugar is added for fragrance and a subtle sweetness.

What makes it unique is that the rice is steamed directly inside a young coconut, allowing it to fully absorb the flavor and aroma of the coconut water and flesh.

3. Cooking Method

To prepare cơm dừa:

  1. The top of a coconut is cut open and the water is drained for use.

  2. Washed rice is placed inside the coconut shell, then coconut water (and sometimes coconut milk) is added.

  3. The entire coconut is steamed slowly until the rice is fully cooked—soft, aromatic, and slightly sweet.

The result is a dish where every grain of rice carries the delicate, nutty fragrance of fresh coconut, making it both comforting and exotic.

4. How to Enjoy

Cơm dừa is often served with savory side dishes, such as:

  • Caramelized pork (thịt kho)

  • Braised shrimp

  • Fried fish or shredded chicken

The sweet and creamy rice balances perfectly with salty or spicy flavors. When served in the original coconut shell, it also becomes a visually stunning dish—popular at homestays, cultural events, or even in Vietnamese culinary tours.

5. Cultural Significance

This dish is a proud representation of Bến Tre’s culinary creativity and deep connection to the coconut tree. It is often enjoyed during festivals, family gatherings, or as a special treat for guests. More than just a meal, cơm dừa tells a story of how people in the Mekong Delta turn local, natural ingredients into delightful food, with love and resourcefulness.

Others
VIEW ALL