Gửi bình luận
As Tet approaches, gac rice cracker production facilities in Ke Sat Commune, Hai Phong City, are becoming increasingly busy.
From around 2–3 a.m., while the countryside is still asleep, lights are already on at gac rice cracker production facilities in Trung and Thuong hamlets (Ke Sat Commune). For local residents, Tet marks the peak season for gac rice cracker production.
According to local producers, about one month ahead of Tet, consumption of gac rice crackers rises by 1.5 to two times compared to normal periods. Crackers are sold as soon as they are made, driving producers to work continuously from early morning until late at night to fulfill orders. At present, only five facilities across the entire commune still maintain the craft, making the pace of production during the peak season even more hectic.
“During Tet (the Lunar New Year), my family produces around 600–700 crackers a day, demand has yet to be fully met. Although the work is demanding, this period also brings the highest income of the year.”, said Ms. Pham Thi Ngoc, owner of the Ngoc Khanh gac rice cracker facility.
To meet Tet orders, gac rice cracker makers must begin their work very early. Rice is soaked overnight and finely ground at dawn, while gac fruit is carefully selected—typically Dien gac, known for its medium size, abundant flesh, bright red color, and richness in natural oil.
"To make delicious crackers, the flour must be finely ground, and the ratio of rice, gac fruit, and sugar must be well balanced. Each family has its own secret.", shared Mr. Pham Van Khanh, said a craftsman with more than 20 years of experience.
Unlike ordinary rice crackers, Ke Sat gac rice crackers stand out for their natural red hue derived entirely from gac fruit. In traditional beliefs, the red color symbolizes good fortune and prosperity, making the crackers particularly popular during Tet. Amid modern life, Ke Sat gac rice crackers continue to feature prominently on traditional Tet trays, carrying the warmth of home and wishes for a prosperous and joyful new year.
Hai Phong News
