National Dish Vietnam: Xoi Lac (Recipe)
In this article
Discover Xoi Lac, a wonderfully simple Vietnamese classic that turns just a handful of ingredients into something memorable! Fragrant sticky rice is folded together with crunchy roasted peanuts for a snack that is at once humble and deeply satisfying. Long a favourite at festivals and family gatherings, it carries the unmistakable aroma of a Vietnamese street stall. Bring that warm, nostalgic flavour straight into your own kitchen.
About Xoi Lac
Xoi Lac is a traditional Vietnamese dish built around glutinous rice, prized for its comforting texture and gentle, nutty flavour. Its two main components — aromatic sticky rice and roasted peanuts — come together in a combination that is both simple and irresistible. The dish is especially popular during festivals and celebrations, where it is served as a snack or a light dessert. As the modest ingredients steam together, they release an aroma that calls to mind the bustling street kitchens of Vietnam, much like the other rice treats of Vietnamese cuisine.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 200 g glutinous (sticky) rice
- 100 g roasted peanuts
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
- 2–3 banana leaves (for serving, optional)
Shopping for the ingredients
To make Xoi Lac, you will need fresh sticky rice, which you can find in Asian grocers or well-stocked supermarkets. Roasted peanuts are usually in the snack aisle; look for unsalted varieties if you want to control the seasoning yourself. Sugar can be added or left out according to your personal taste. Leaves from the banana plant are optional, but they lend the dish an authentic touch and a lovely fragrance.
Preparing the dish
Before you begin cooking, the sticky rice needs to soak for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. This ensures the rice reaches the ideal consistency required for a proper Xoi Lac. Be sure to drain the rice thoroughly before you start cooking. The peanuts can be roughly crushed or left whole, depending on how much texture you like in your dish.
Step-by-step instructions
- Steam the soaked sticky rice in a steamer basket or a dedicated rice cooker until cooked through (about 30–40 minutes).
- In a pan, lightly toast the roasted peanuts over low heat to deepen their flavour.
- Tip the cooked rice into a large bowl and season to taste with salt and sugar.
- Add the toasted peanuts and fold through gently so the flavour is evenly distributed.
- Optional: arrange the rice on a banana leaf and serve hot.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Xoi Lac is naturally gluten-free and lactose-free, as neither sticky rice nor peanuts contain either of these. That makes it an ideal choice for anyone with a corresponding allergy or intolerance. Do take care, though, that any sugar and peanuts you choose are also certified gluten-free, particularly if they are pre-packaged. That way the dish remains suitable for every kind of diet.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
This dish is naturally vegan and vegetarian, which makes it a great option for anyone avoiding animal products. You can swap the peanuts for other nuts or seeds if you prefer. Just make sure every ingredient you use is genuinely vegan, especially with any processed items. Serving a little fresh fruit on the side is a lovely way to round out the flavour even further.
More tips and tricks
To make the dish even more fragrant, you can scatter in a few fresh herbs such as coriander or mint. These bring not only colour but an extra layer of flavour. Experiment with different kinds of peanuts, or add toasted sesame seeds for variety. Above all, aim for the right consistency in the sticky rice — it should be pleasantly sticky but never mushy.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Xoi Lac is wonderfully versatile and easy to tailor to personal preference. If you like it sweeter, add more sugar or experiment with a drizzle of honey (if you are not keeping it vegan). For a more savoury version, top it with fried tofu or vegetables. Play with the quantity of peanuts depending on whether you want extra crunch or a softer finish — much like the toppings on a bowl of Xôi Đậu Xanh.
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have roasted peanuts to hand, cashews or almonds make a fine alternative. These nuts give the dish a similar aroma, albeit with a slightly different texture. For a sweeter variation, add desiccated coconut, which brings both flavour and an interesting bite — a touch you also find in Xôi Dua. Whatever you choose, pick the freshest ingredients you can for the best possible result.
Drink pairing ideas
A range of drinks pairs beautifully with Xoi Lac. Traditionally it is enjoyed with Vietnamese coffee — strong and sweet, the perfect foil for the gentle rice; a creamy Ca Phe Trung is a wonderful choice. For something lighter, reach for green tea or jasmine tea, both of which complement the dish’s nutty notes. A good fruit juice or a fresh smoothie is another lovely way to finish the meal.
Serving and presentation ideas
Thoughtful presentation can lift the Xoi Lac experience considerably. Serve the dish on a flat plate or on banana leaves for a traditional look. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs or a wedge of lime for a little extra freshness. An attractive arrangement adds to the visual appeal and builds anticipation before the first bite.
A bit of history
Xoi Lac has its origins in Vietnamese culture, where rice has always played a central role. The dish is closely tied to special occasions and celebrations, with roots reaching back to the old Vietnamese dynasties. The sticky rice symbolises abundance and prosperity, while the peanuts are often associated with luck and good fortune. These cultural associations help explain its enduring popularity in Vietnam and beyond.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Xoi Lac
Xoi Lac brings the flavours and traditions of Vietnam straight to your table. With its straightforward preparation and endless room for adaptation, it suits every occasion — whether a festive celebration or a simple snack between meals. The combination of fragrant sticky rice and savoury peanuts promises a taste experience that will win over even the most sceptical of eaters. Give Xoi Lac a try and discover the rich world of Vietnamese cooking in the most delicious way.
