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Lotus – Vietnam’s acclaimed national flower

The lotus – a flower that always appears in Vietnamese literature, poetry and other forms of Vietnam national art, has long been a symbol of nobility, purity and endurance. In the mud, the lotus still blooms pure, demonstrating the resilient, indomitable spirit and noble virtues of the Vietnamese people. Lotus is not only a flower, but also an indispensable part of the spiritual life of Vietnamese people. For thousands of years, the lotus has appeared in legends, folk tales, and is considered a symbol of Buddhism. The image of Buddha sitting on a lotus has become too familiar in our minds.

In the Vietnamese’s spirit perspective, lotus is the image of completeness, fidelity, and immutability. Whether figuratively or in reality, the lotus remains the same as before, never changing. The lotus image is associated with the lagoon, like the Vietnamese saying – “What’s more beautiful in the lagoon than the lotus” or in the vast lotus fields. Lotus has become an image in the architecture and art of ancient Vietnamese people. Besides spiritual value, lotus also brings high economic value. Lotus flowers are used to make tea, cakes, cosmetics, and even food. With the constant creativity and development of the rhythm of modern life, many diverse and unique products from lotus has been formed, there are even specialized craft villages specializing in lotus products.

Hanoi Lotus Tea – An elegant cultural beauty

Hanoi lotus tea is not only a drink, but also a typical cultural beauty of Hanoi people. The process of marinating lotus tea is a process that requires meticulousness and sophistication. Lush lotus flowers are picked early in the morning, then the pistils are extracted and marinated with premium green tea buds. This process can last for many days, until the tea absorbs the fragrance of the lotus flower.

Hanoi lotus tea originated from the Ly – Tran dynasties, when people knew how to combine the fragrance of lotus flowers and the bitter taste of tea to create a unique drink. Through many ups and downs of history, lotus tea still retains a special position in the hearts of Hanoi people. Today, lotus tea has become a popular drink among Hanoi people and is loved by many people across the country.

The Making of Lotus Tea

Ingredients: People often choose fresh lotus flowers that have just bloomed in the early morning to make tea.

Steps to marinate tea:

– Separating lotus pistils: Lotus pistils are the most valuable part of the flower, carrying a unique fragrance.

– Mix lotus pistil with tea: Lotus pistil is mixed evenly with green tea so that the tea absorbs the aroma evenly.

– Marinate the tea: The mixture of tea and lotus pistils is marinated in closed jars, stirring frequently to ensure the tea absorbs the flavor evenly.

– Drying: After marinating, the tea is dried for preservation.

The art of enjoying Lotus tea

– Space: The space for enjoying lotus tea is often designed to be quiet, elegant, creating a feeling of relaxation.

– How to make tea: Lotus tea is brewed with boiling water at about 90 degrees Celsius. People often brew tea in small ceramic or glass pots.

– Enjoy: Lotus tea is enjoyed in small cups, taking small sips to fully feel the aroma and sweetness of the tea.

Places to buy lotus tea in Hanoi

Vietnam has many traditional villages making lotus tea, each with its own unique flavors. Below are some famous lotus tea shops in Hanoi that tourists can check out:

1/ Tan Cuong Tea

2/ Minh Cuong Tea

3/ Vong Village