VietNamNet Bridge – O mai (salted or sugared dry apricot) is a favourite treat for many people in Hanoi and other provinces.

O mai is produced using traditional methods, after choosing the material, the company also send staff to gardens in Hung Yen, Hai Hung, Hoa Binh, Lai Chau in order to gather crops of all kinds, such as sour-fresh fruits like plum, apricot, dracontomelum, starfruit, tamarind, kumquat, pineapple and lemon.

The secret of Hang Duong experts is the addition of sugar, ginger, chilli, star liquorice and other supplements to produce a smooth, fragrant and yellow-coloured treat.

O mai available all year-round and visitors can enjoy it with a pot of tea and a chat with friends. This is also a common present for Hanoian’s to give to their friends.

First, the apricots are soaked in water and covered overnight. Then, they are cooked in the same water. Cooked until tender, the fruit is then mashed or chopped in a blender. After that, chefs must peel, core, and cut pineapple into small pieces and then cover with water and cook until tender. Lastly, an equal amount of sugar is placed with the fruits into a large kettle and cooked slowly until thick and clear.

Nhan Dan