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Tôm Cuốn Thừa Lâm

Table of Contents
  1. 1. Overview
  3. 2. Characteristics
  4. 3. How It's Prepared
  6. 4. Cultural Significance
  7. 5. How to Enjoy

1. Overview

Thừa Lâm Shrimp Rolls (Tôm cuốn Thừa Lâm) are a traditional and cherished specialty of Thừa Lâm village in Đại Từ district, Thái Nguyên province. This rustic yet elegant dish showcases the ingenuity of northern Vietnamese home cooking, combining fresh shrimp, herbs, and rice paper into light, flavorful rolls that are enjoyed at family gatherings, festivals, and local feasts.

2. Characteristics

  • Main ingredients: Freshwater shrimp (or prawn), rice paper (bánh đa nem), local herbs (like perilla, basil, and coriander), thin rice noodles (bún), and optional green mango or cucumber.

  • Appearance: Neatly wrapped translucent rolls revealing pink shrimp and vibrant green herbs inside.

  • Texture: A balanced mix of chewy rice paper, tender shrimp, and crisp vegetables.

  • Flavor: Fresh, mildly sweet and savory with herbal notes — often enhanced by dipping sauce.

3. How It's Prepared

Making Tôm cuốn Thừa Lâm is simple but requires attention to freshness and balance:

  • Shrimp preparation: Shrimp are cleaned, lightly seasoned, and boiled or steamed until just cooked.

  • Assembly: A sheet of moistened rice paper is laid flat, then layered with noodles, herbs, vegetables, and a piece of shrimp.

  • Rolling: The paper is tightly rolled into bite-sized pieces.

  • Serving: Served with a dipping sauce made from fish sauce, garlic, chili, lime juice, and sugar.

Some families also pan-fry the rolls for a crispy variation, depending on the occasion.

4. Cultural Significance

  • Local pride: Tôm cuốn is a highlight of village festivals and special meals in Thừa Lâm, often made in large batches by hand.

  • Symbol of hospitality: Serving these fresh rolls reflects the host’s care and attention to detail.

  • Community tradition: Rolling and preparing shrimp rolls is often a group activity during family reunions or celebrations, fostering a sense of togetherness.

5. How to Enjoy

Tôm cuốn is best enjoyed fresh and dipped in a sweet-sour-spicy fish sauce. Locals may also pair it with pickled vegetables or green mango slices to add contrast in flavor. It’s perfect as an appetizer, party dish, or light summer meal.

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