How to Say “Dumpling” in Vietnamese

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bánh xếp
[ʔɓajŋ̟˧˦ sep̚˧˦]word by word
The Vietnamese word for dumpling is bánh xếp.
The term bánh xếp is used to refer to a dumpling. It is important to distinguish this from bánh bao, which refers to large, steamed buns that are typically not folded.
Meaning: food (noun)

What does it mean word for word?

The term is composed of bánh (meaning cake, pastry or bread) and xếp (meaning to fold or to arrange).

Is it said differently in some regions?

In Central and Southern Vietnam, you may find bánh bột lọc, which is a transparent dumpling made from tapioca starch. Additionally, bánh nậm is a traditional dumpling originating from the Central region of the country.

Did you know?

  • Some people believe bánh comes from the French word 'pain', but this is a mistake as the word appears in Vietnamese texts from the 12th and 13th centuries.
  • Because bánh can mean any flour-based item, a Vietnamese speaker might describe a savory dumpling and a sweet cake using the same root word.

Examples in context

  • Tôi muốn ăn bánh xếp.
    I want to eat dumplings.
  • Món bánh xếp này rất ngon.
    This dumpling dish is very delicious.
  • Bạn có thích bánh xếp không?
    Do you like dumplings?

Example conversation

Tuấn and Lan are deciding what to eat for lunch.

  1. Tuấn

    Trưa nay ăn gì nhỉ?
    What should we eat for lunch?
  2. Lan

    Ăn bánh xếp nhé?
    How about eating dumplings?
  3. Tuấn

    Ý hay đó, Lan.
    That's a good idea, Lan.
  4. Lan

    Để mình đi đặt đồ ăn.
    Let me order the food.

Sources

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Freddie Maxwell
Freddie MaxwellHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.
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