Growing up, I always looked forward to the mornings when my mother would make ‘xôi mặn’, a savory sticky rice dish that filled our home with its irresistible aroma. It was a comfort food that not only satisfied our hunger but also brought us together as a family. Today, I’m excited to share this beloved breakfast dish with you about The Vietnamese savory sticky rice, known as xôi mặn which is popular for Vietnamese breakfast or as a snack. 

In Vietnam, xôi mặn is more than just a meal, it’s a tradition. Whether enjoyed on the go or at a leisurely breakfast table, this dish captures the essence of Vietnamese street food—simple, yet deeply satisfying.

The sticky rice, or xôi, is the base of the dish and is typically steamed until soft and slightly chewy, with a slight sweetness from the natural starches in the rice. On top of this sticky rice, various savory toppings are added, making the dish both filling and rich in flavor. At this time from Minh’s Kitchen, common toppings include slices of Chinese sausage (lạp xưởng), Vietnamese pork rolls, eggs, and salted shredded chicken or pork. The dish is often garnished with many thin layers as pâté, a sprinkling of chopped scallions special with a little roasted crushed peanuts and chai poh (củ cải muối) for added texture and flavor.

The dish is usually finished with a drizzle of soy sauce or a savory broth to moisten the rice and bring all the flavors together. The contrast between the sticky, slightly sweet rice and the savory, rich toppings creates a balanced and satisfying meal.

Ready to bring a taste of Vietnam to your breakfast table? Follow my simple recipe above to make your xôi mặn at home. Trust me, your mornings will never be the same.

I’d love to hear how your xôi mặn turns out! Feel free to share your experience in the comments below, or tag me on social media with your creations. Let’s bring a little bit of Vietnam to breakfast tables around the world.

Chúc ngon miệng! ❤️