Cái mâm

The meaning of CÁI MÂM, (Tray).

From north to south, from urban to rural areas of Vietnam, Cai Mam” is a very familiar object. For each family, “Cai Mam” appears twice in everyday; at lunch and at dinner. “Cai Mam” is a round tray used to contain objects, especially food. In the past, “Cai Mam” trays are made of aluminum or stainless steel.

During a meal, everyone in the family gather round “Cai Mam” with various and delectables food. It is the time for the family to care of each other, to share and to show solidarity.

An indispensables cultural feature of Vietnamese tradition; at each “meal invitation”, before eating, younger people invite the elders to show their deep gratitude with appreciation of the parents. Meanwwhile, elders will nod affectionately, and the whole family will begin a meal in a fun atmosphere. What coule be more touching than a New Year dinner, people reuniting with loved ones around the familiar “Cai Mam”, and enjoy tasty homeland dishes.

Enjoy your meal!