Cơm rượu

Cơm rượu, also known as rượu nếp cái, is a delightful traditional Vietnamese dessert originating from Southern Vietnam. This unique delicacy is crafted from glutinous rice, which is cooked and then mixed with yeast to form small, flavorful balls. These rice balls are served in a slightly alcoholic, milky white liquid—a form of rice wine—accompanied by a touch of sugar and salt. It is typically enjoyed with a spoon, offering a sweet and subtly boozy experience.

In Northern Vietnam, a similar dessert called rượu nếp exists. Unlike its Southern counterpart, this version is thicker, lacks the liquid component, and isn’t shaped into balls. It presents a different interpretation of the same delicious concept.

Interestingly, a comparable dish can also be found in Chinese cuisine, known as jiǔniàng or guìhuā jiǔniàng. This variant is often flavored with sweet osmanthus, adding a fragrant twist to the fermented rice dessert. Collectively, these variations showcase the rich culinary traditions across different cultures, each infusing its own unique essence into this beloved treat.