Traditional Rose-Holding Chickens Become Best-Sellers at Hanoi’s Hang Be Market for Tet Offerings

In the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, the atmosphere at Hang Be Market—often dubbed the 'market for the wealthy'—is reaching its peak as the 30th day of Tet arrives. Among the various delicacies prepared for the New Year offerings, the 'rose-holding chicken' (gà ngậm hoa hồng) stands out as the most sought-after item. These are meticulously selected roosters, boiled to perfection with their wings elegantly crossed over their backs and a fresh red rose placed in their beaks. This unique presentation is not only a culinary feat but also a symbol of prosperity and luck for the family’s ancestral altar.

To meet the high demand, shop owners and workers in the Gia Ngu and Hang Be area begin their work as early as 3 or 4 AM. Each batch of 10-15 chickens is carefully monitored during the boiling process to ensure the skin remains golden and intact. Once cooled, the chickens are trimmed and styled, often priced around 400,000 VND per kilogram. Despite the higher price point compared to other markets, Hanoians flock here because of the guaranteed quality and the aesthetic beauty of the offerings. For many families, having a Hang Be chicken on their altar is a long-standing tradition that signifies a well-prepared and respectful Tet.

Beyond the famous chickens, Hang Be Market offers a wide array of pre-made traditional dishes such as 'canh bong' (dried pig skin soup) for 100,000 VND a bowl, 'xoi gac' (red sticky rice), and unique money-bag shaped steamed buns. Other essential Tet items like Dien grapefruits with their stems and leaves attached and bundles of old coriander (mui gia) for the traditional end-of-year bath are also in high demand. The market is so crowded that shops must employ extra staff just to manage parking. This vibrant scene perfectly captures the essence of Hanoi’s Tet preparation, where food, tradition, and community spirit intertwine to welcome the new spring.

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