Hanoi's hot plain rice flan - A traditional restaurant populated for over 20 years

Hanoi's hot plain rice flan - A traditional restaurant populated for over 20 years
Elly Huynh
Hanoi's hot plain rice flan - A traditional restaurant populated for over 20 years

In chilly Hanoi, the Trung Tu Alley bustles with activity as people seek warmth in bowls of Mrs. Tuyet Minh's hot plain rice flan.


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Located at 103 B5, Trung Tu is a hotspot for this local delight, a tradition Mrs. Minh has upheld for two decades. Originally from the Pha Den port area, she learned the recipe from her mother-in-law. Despite relocations, her authentic taste remains unchanged.


plain rice flan

The plain rice flan, once a humble dish for the poor, has evolved. Mrs. Minh's version uses rice flour, water, and a touch of tapioca, creating a smooth, elastic texture. The dish is served with a flavorful pork filling, wood ear mushrooms, and shiitake mushrooms.


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The soupy dish is completed with a vital broth, balancing sour and sweet flavors. Mrs. Minh's secret lies in a broth made from bones and sweet-sour fish sauce poured generously over the flan.


plain rice flan
Photo by @QuynhMai

At Mrs. Minh's stall, hot plain rice flan is priced at two levels: 20,000 and 25,000 dong per bowl.


The stall is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., attracting customers of all ages, from students to middle-aged individuals, scattered throughout the day. The busiest hours are between 12 p.m. - 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.


plain rice flan
Photo by @QuynhMai

At first glance, the pot of hot plain rice flan looks similar to pork porridge or children's rice porridge because the dough is finely ground. Using a ladle to scoop beneath reveals a layer of smooth rice flan immersed in tangy broth. The stir-fried minced pork with wood ear mushrooms is crispy, and flavorful, with hints of the fragrance of cilantro and fried shallots.


plain rice flan
Photo by @QuynhMai
plain rice flan
Photo by @QuynhMai
plain rice flan
Photo by @QuynhMai

Diners looking for a spicy kick can add pepper or chili powder. Hot plain rice flan can be a simple, rustic afternoon treat, warming the belly in the cold winter.


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