In Ms. Ly's family, the task of making coconut jam is clearly divided among different people. Each person is responsible for a specific stage, creating a smooth and cohesive process in the days leading up to Tet (Lunar New Year).

The process begins with selecting the ingredients, a seemingly simple step but one that largely determines the quality of the jam. The coconuts are carefully chosen, preferably medium-ripe ones – not too young to avoid a mushy texture, and not too old to prevent the flesh from becoming hard.

The coconuts that meet the standards should have moderately thick flesh, a translucent white color, a slight crispness when broken open, and a naturally creamy taste.

After the coconut is peeled, the brown outer shell is scraped off, the white flesh is separated, and then grated into long strands or cut into bite-sized pieces. This step requires skill to ensure the coconut strands are uniform, allowing the jam to cook evenly during the simmering process. The grated coconut is then rinsed repeatedly with clean water to remove excess oil, reduce greasiness, and help the jam retain its beautiful white color after completion. Next comes the sugaring process. The coconut flesh is mixed thoroughly with the carefully measured amount of sugar and marinated for about 40-45 minutes to allow the sugar to dissolve completely and penetrate deep into each coconut strand.

Next, the cook adds all-natural coloring ingredients to the pan. The coloring process also requires meticulous attention to detail and careful calculation, from selecting the ingredients to ensuring the right proportions. Each color has its own formula, adjusted through multiple batches to create a harmonious, eye-catching color while still preserving the natural flavor of the coconut jam. This meticulous attention to detail contributes to creating batches of coconut jam that are not only delicious but also visually appealing and attractive during the Tet holiday.

After completing the processing steps, the coconut jam is carefully selected and blended harmoniously with various flavorings to create a diverse range of colors and tastes, satisfying consumer preferences.

Finally, each batch of jam is carefully inspected before packaging, ensuring food safety and hygiene while maintaining its natural texture and aroma when it reaches consumers. The finished products are neatly arranged, ready for sale to many localities within and outside the region, serving the increased consumer demand during the Lunar New Year.

At the home of Ms. Hai Ly and Mr. Huu Trinh, the atmosphere became busier from the very first days of the twelfth lunar month. Many people in the area and neighboring localities proactively came to order coconut jam, both for family use and as gifts for relatives and friends during the New Year. Consumer trust stems not only from the delicious, soft, and chewy taste of the jam but also from the guaranteed production process, using only natural ingredients, contributing to preserving the beauty of traditional cuisine during the Lunar New Year.

Each strand of fragrant, chewy coconut jam embodies the meticulous craftsmanship of skilled artisans and the cherished memories of Tet (Vietnamese New Year) passed down through generations. Amidst the modern pace of life, coconut jam retains its perfectly balanced sweetness and delicate flavor, evoking the atmosphere of family gatherings over a warm cup of tea on a spring day.

More than just a food item, coconut jam is also a symbol of reunion, love, and traditional beauty. Every Tet holiday, its sweet flavor gently awakens in people's hearts a feeling of warmth, familiarity, and fulfillment.

The sweet flavor of jam has created a bridge for family gatherings, reminiscing about the past year and sharing plans for the new year. Tet jam in general, and coconut jam in particular, is contributing to preserving traditions and cultural values alongside many modern sweets, making Tet even more complete.

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