How to Cook Xôi Hoàng Phố: Fragrant, Sticky, and Traditionally Perfect

Xôi Hoàng Phố is a traditional Vietnamese sticky rice dish known for its golden color, soft and chewy texture, and gentle aroma of fresh turmeric. It was commonly served on ceremonial trays in old Hanoi, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune during important occasions. In this article, Vô Úy Vegetarian Restaurant shares a simple yet authentic way to make xôi Hoàng Phố at home, ensuring a fragrant, glossy, and perfectly balanced flavor.

Xôi Hoàng Phố – A Traditional Sticky Rice Specialty of Hanoi

Xôi Hoàng Phố is one of the most iconic sticky rice dishes in Hanoi’s culinary heritage. Its natural golden hue comes from fresh turmeric, while its aroma reflects the simplicity and elegance of traditional Vietnamese cuisine.

Originally a humble variation of xôi xéo, xôi Hoàng Phố evolved into a more refined dish that retains rustic charm while offering a polished, ceremonial appearance. Over time, it became a familiar presence at weddings, Lunar New Year celebrations, ancestral offerings, and formal banquets in Hanoi households.

Made primarily from premium glutinous rice, fresh turmeric, fried shallots, and floss, xôi Hoàng Phố delivers a mild richness that is flavorful yet not heavy. The dish is easy to enjoy and suits a wide range of tastes.

Traditional Xôi Hoàng Phố Recipe: Soft, Sticky, and Beautifully Golden

To achieve perfectly cooked xôi Hoàng Phố—soft, evenly golden, and naturally fragrant—the key lies in choosing quality ingredients and steaming the rice correctly. With a bit of care, you can recreate this Hanoi specialty right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• 400g premium glutinous rice

• 10g fresh turmeric root

• 20g dried shallots

• Salt

• Cooking oil

How to Cook Xôi Hoàng Phố

Step 1: Soak the Rice

Peel and crush the fresh turmeric, then strain to extract the juice. You may add a few drops of lemon juice or vinegar to help maintain a bright yellow color.

Rinse the glutinous rice thoroughly and soak it in turmeric water for about 8 hours. Change the soaking water 2–3 times to prevent sourness and maintain a balanced color. After soaking, mix the rice gently with a pinch of salt, then place it in a cloth bag for steaming.

Step 2: Fry the Shallots

Peel and thinly slice the shallots. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat, then fry the shallots until golden and fragrant. Remove immediately to avoid bitterness.

Step 3: Steam the Sticky Rice

Fill the steamer with water up to about half its capacity and bring to a boil. Steam the rice for 25–30 minutes. After the first steaming, remove the rice and mix it with a small amount of shallot oil to keep the grains glossy and prevent dryness.

Steam the rice a second time for another 10–15 minutes until fully cooked and chewy.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Once cooked, transfer the sticky rice to a plate and top with fried shallots and vegetarian floss if desired. Xôi Hoàng Phố is best enjoyed hot and remains pleasantly soft even after cooling.

Tips for Making Authentic and Delicious Xôi Hoàng Phố

To achieve the signature golden color, softness, and aroma of authentic xôi Hoàng Phố, attention to small details is essential—from rice selection to soaking time and steaming technique.

Choose High-Quality Glutinous Rice

The quality of the rice determines the success of xôi Hoàng Phố. Opt for premium varieties such as nếp cái hoa vàng or Tú Lệ glutinous rice. These grains are round, plump, naturally opaque, and fragrant. When steamed, they become evenly cooked, sticky, and aromatic even after cooling.

Soak the Rice for the Right Amount of Time

Soaking the rice for 6–8 hours allows the grains to absorb enough water, ensuring even cooking and preventing a hard center. Change the soaking water once or twice to keep the flavor clean. Adding a small amount of salt during soaking enhances the final taste.

Control the Steaming Water Level

Xôi Hoàng Phố is cooked entirely by steam, so water levels must be carefully controlled. Use only about one-third of the steamer’s capacity to generate sufficient steam without making the rice soggy. Add hot water if necessary to maintain consistent heat.

Steam Twice for Perfect Texture

Steaming the rice in two stages helps maintain softness and elasticity. After the first steam, gently fluff the rice and mix in a little oil or shallot fat before steaming again. This technique keeps the rice glossy, fluffy, and free from clumping.

With these simple yet crucial tips, you can easily prepare fragrant, golden, and authentic xôi Hoàng Phố at home—just as delicious as the version served in traditional eateries.

Lotus Seed Xôi Hoàng Phố at Vô Úy – Light Yet Perfectly Balanced

At Vô Úy Vegetarian Restaurant, every dish is carefully prepared to preserve natural flavors and deliver a satisfying dining experience. Among the highlights is lotus seed xôi Hoàng Phố, a harmonious combination of sticky rice and buttery lotus seeds, often enjoyed during family gatherings.

A Warm and Elegant Dining Space

Vô Úy features a tranquil, minimalist design that feels refined yet welcoming. The peaceful ambiance makes it ideal for family meals, intimate gatherings, or hosting guests in a private and elegant setting.

A Diverse and Wholesome Vegetarian Menu

The menu at Vô Úy offers a wide range of traditional and creative vegetarian dishes, designed to be nutritionally balanced and health-conscious. Fresh, clearly sourced ingredients and simple cooking methods allow each dish to retain its natural flavors.

Beautiful Presentation and Prompt Service

Every dish is thoughtfully presented to provide a complete visual and culinary experience. The professional service process ensures meals are served promptly while remaining hot and fresh.

Attentive and Caring Staff

The staff at Vô Úy are gentle, attentive, and always ready to accommodate guests’ needs. Their thoughtful service contributes to a relaxed and enjoyable dining atmosphere.

With its serene setting, carefully crafted vegetarian dishes, and dedicated service, Vô Úy is more than a restaurant—it is a place to restore balance amid a busy lifestyle.

Conclusion

Xôi Hoàng Phố captures the essence of Hanoi’s culinary tradition, evoking warmth, abundance, and togetherness. If you don’t have time to prepare it at home, visit Vô Úy Vegetarian Restaurant to enjoy lotus seed xôi Hoàng Phố in its most refined vegetarian form at 47 Street No. 3, CityLand Park Hills, Gò Vấp District, Ho Chi Minh City.

With its elegant ambiance and thoughtfully prepared dishes, Vô Úy is an ideal destination for family gatherings or business meetings. Come and experience the delicate beauty of vegetarian cuisine in a calm and welcoming space.