Whenever I talk about food from my hometown, Hue Sesame Candy is always one of the first things that comes to mind. I grew up seeing these sweet little treats appear in family gatherings, especially during holidays. Over the years, I’ve tried all kinds- chewy, crispy, and even the thin golden “mirror” style. Each type brings its own charm, and as someone living in Hue, I can tell you it’s more than just a snack. It’s a piece of our culture wrapped in sesame and sweetness.
In this guide, Hura Cars will walk you through what makes Hue Sesame Candy special, the types you can find, how it’s made, where to buy the freshest ones, and even some tips from my own experiences.
Hue Sesame Candy – The Signature Flavor of Hue Cuisine
Growing up near Đông Ba Market, I enjoyed Hue Sesame Candy, or mè xửng, countless times. For locals, it represents the gentle sweetness of the ancient capital. It is made from simple ingredients like sesame, peanuts, malt sugar, and sometimes rice paper, but each bite reflects the craftsmanship behind the process.
This candy has long been a symbol of Central Vietnamese cuisine. You will find it at street stalls, markets and souvenir shops, and it is one of the most popular gifts chosen by travelers. My relatives from Saigon always take home a few packs because it is light, affordable and full of Hue’s charm.
What I love most is the balance of flavors and textures. Malt sugar creates the chewy base, sesame adds a deep roasted aroma, and peanuts bring warmth and richness. Personally, I lean toward the chewy versions, although each type has its own appeal.
If you are also exploring food while traveling, here is a local guide I often share with first-time visitors: a detailed guide to Hue’s best sights.
Exploring the Different Types and Essential Ingredients
Chewy Sesame Candy
This is the classic version many of us enjoyed after school. Locals love it for its soft texture that bends without breaking. The mixture of sesame, peanuts and malt sugar is cooked until thick, then stretched and cut into pieces. Its sweetness lingers longer on the palate compared to other variations.
Crispy Rice Paper Sesame Candy
If you enjoy something light and crunchy, this version is a favorite. It uses thin layers of rice paper that create a satisfying crisp when you bite into it. When I worked as a tour guide, I often carried a small pack to share with guests because everyone loved the contrast between the crispy rice paper and the nutty filling.
Mirror (Transparent) Sesame Candy
This delicate type looks like a thin sheet of amber. Locals call it mirror candy because of its shiny, translucent surface. It is thinner than other types and breaks easily, offering a quick burst of sweetness followed by the aroma of roasted sesame.
How Hue Sesame Candy Is Made
I have watched artisans make this candy many times, and the process is both meticulous and beautiful.
First, sesame and peanuts are roasted until golden and fragrant. The smell always reminds me of mornings in Gia Hội. Meanwhile, malt sugar is slowly cooked into a thick syrup. Once it reaches the right consistency, the nuts are mixed in.
From there, the mixture is shaped depending on the type of candy. Chewy candy is poured into molds, crispy candy is layered between rice paper, and mirror candy is pulled into thin sheets. After cooling, the candy is cut into pieces and packed. The process feels like watching a piece of Hue’s culinary heritage being preserved in every movement.
Ingredients and Flavor Profile
Hue Sesame Candy is built from a simple set of ingredients:
- Roasted sesame for aroma and crunch
- Peanuts for a warm, nutty flavor
- Malt sugar to bind and sweeten the mixture
- Rice paper for crispiness in certain versions
When combined, these ingredients create a balanced snack that ranges from chewy to crispy. On days when I want something lighter, I often choose the mirror candy because it melts quickly and has a delicate sweetness.
Where to Buy Authentic Hue Sesame Candy
When friends ask where to find fresh and authentic sesame candy, I recommend a few reliable places.
You can find great everyday options at:
- Đông Ba Market
- Bến Ngự Market
- An Cựu Market
For premium or gift-ready boxes, these shops are well known among locals:
- Thiên Hương Sesame Candy, 20 Chi Lăng
- Thuận Hưng Sesame Candy, 147 Chi Lăng
- Nam Thuận Sesame Candy, 201 Huỳnh Thúc Kháng
Hue’s markets offer many variations, so I usually tell visitors to check the color and texture before buying. Look for light brown shades, even sesame layers and properly sealed packaging.
How to Store and Preserve Hue Sesame Candy
Storing this candy is simple, but a few tips help keep it at its best:
- Keep it at room temperature for 3 to 5 days
- Refrigerate to extend freshness to 10 to 12 days
- Use airtight containers to avoid moisture
Humidity can soften crispy versions and make chewy ones too sticky, so proper storage matters. When gifting it, I always remind friends how to store it to maintain the ideal flavor and texture.
Price Range and Packaging Sizes
One reason this candy is so popular is its affordability. Most varieties cost between 20,000 and 70,000 VND, depending on type and packaging. Common box sizes range from 160 to 500 grams.
I usually buy the 250 gram box for personal snacking, while the 500 gram pack is perfect for gatherings or for bringing abroad.
Why Hue Sesame Candy Makes a Popular Gift
Travelers from many countries enjoy this candy for its simplicity, flavor and connection to Hue’s culture. It has become one of the city’s signature souvenirs, representing local craftsmanship and warm hospitality.
For locals, giving this candy is a way to share a piece of home. I often pair it with a cup of hot tea, which enhances the nutty aroma and brings back memories of calm afternoons by the Perfume River.