Long ago, after King Hùng defeated the invading Yin forces, Vietnam entered a time of peace and prosperity. As King Hùng grew older and weaker, he decided it was time to choose a successor among his sons. To do this, he made an unusual announcement:
"On the day of the Ancestor Worship Ceremony, whichever son brings me the most pleasing food offering will inherit the throne."
Lang Liêu and the Creation of Chưng Cake and Giầy Cake
Among the many princes, Lang Liêu, the king’s eighteenth son, lived a humble life. His mother had passed away early, and he survived by farming rice and root vegetables. While the other princes ventured far and wide in search of rare and luxurious foods, Lang Liêu was deeply troubled, unsure of what to offer his father.
One night, a divine spirit visited him in a dream, offering guidance:
"Use the rice you grow to create two kinds of cakes: one square to represent the Earth, and one round to symbolize the Sky. Fill them with pork, fat, and mung beans to capture the essence of life."
Lang Liêu woke with a newfound sense of purpose. He crafted two cakes—one square, called Chưng Cake, and one round, called Giầy Cake—using simple, familiar ingredients.
The Ceremony and King Hùng’s Decision
When the day of the Ancestor Worship Ceremony arrived, all the princes proudly presented elaborate, exotic dishes. But when it was Lang Liêu’s turn, the court was surprised to see his simple rice cakes.
Curious, King Hùng tasted them—and was deeply impressed. He shared the cakes with his court officials, and everyone praised their delicious, meaningful flavors.
The king declared:
"The round cake represents the Sky, and the square cake represents the Earth. Their fillings symbolize the precious gifts of nature, and the wrapping shows the love and protection of family. Lang Liêu has shown wisdom, humility, and respect for our traditions. He is worthy of the throne."
The Birth of a Tradition
King Hùng officially named the two cakes Chưng Cake (square) and Giầy Cake (round). From that time forward, Vietnamese families have made these cakes every Lunar New Year (Tết) to honor their ancestors, celebrate their heritage, and pray for good fortune.
The legend of Chưng Cake and Giầy Cake is more than just a story about food. It teaches creativity, gratitude, and love for one’s country—values that have been passed down for generations through the simple, heartfelt act of making and sharing these symbolic cakes.