Buzzing with excitement during the shrimp season, the exquisite delicacy from Nha Trang's seas delights many discerning diners.

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Buzzing with excitement during the shrimp season, the exquisite delicacy from Nha Trang's seas delights many discerning diners.

From March to November, the coastal residents of Nha Trang are bustling with the shrimp catching season, a premium seafood highly favored by gastronomes. Consequently, the shrimp season also brings high income to fishermen.

Buzzing with excitement during the shrimp season, the exquisite delicacy from Nha Trang's seas delights many discerning diners.

Nha Phu Estuary, a familiar shrimp catching spot for many fishermen in Ngoc Diem village. Photo by @lenhan_0402.

Squilla, also known as mantis shrimp, stomatopods, or thumb splitters, belongs to the crustacean group within the Order Stomatopoda. Squilla thrives in various temperate and tropical marine environments worldwide. The Stomatopoda Order comprises numerous families, with Squillidae being particularly notable in Vietnam as a food source. The Squilla found in Nha Trang also falls under the Squillidae family.

Photo: @lenhan_0402.

Mantis shrimp can grow up to 30cm in length. Their body color varies among species, ranging from brown, greenish, dark black to pink, and light yellow. Mantis shrimp possess eight pairs of appendages, with the first five pairs bearing claws, followed by swimming appendages. Their eyes have a unique and complex structure, aiding in distinguishing objects such as coral reefs and prey, even those with translucent bodies.

Mantis shrimp season. Illustration photo: Fatherland Newspaper.

Mantis shrimp are distributed along the coast of Vietnam, with their growth and development season starting around March. Therefore, this is also the season for fishermen in Nha Trang's coastal areas to make a living, especially in Nha Phu Estuary, where there is a high natural yield of mantis shrimp. During this season, the shrimp are delicious due to their rich, firm flesh, particularly the females with long egg chains extending from their heads to their tails, providing more nutrients than lobster or prawn.

Fresh mantis shrimp. Photo: Bùi Toàn/Vnexpress.

Located along the coast of Ngoc Diem village, Nha Phu Estuary is a deep bay area sheltered by Ca Mountain, Lan Island, and Be Mountain offshore. In the past, fishermen could catch plenty of mantis shrimp by simply rowing small boats near the shore. However, as the sea level decreases over time, fishermen have to use motorboats to travel further.

Mantis shrimp after being caught. Photo: C.T/Báo Dân Việt.

Mantis shrimp, once caught, are immediately purchased by traders at the dock for prices ranging from 130,000 to 250,000 Vietnamese Dong per kilogram, depending on size. Larger shrimp are sold to restaurants and seafood markets in Nha Trang, while smaller ones are taken to the market. During the tourist season, all available mantis shrimp are quickly bought up due to the high demand from tourists.

Sorting shrimp for traders. Photo: Bùi Toàn/Vnexpress.

Mantis shrimp are often cooked into various delicious dishes such as garlic stir-fry, salted roasted, tamarind roasted, lemongrass steamed, beer steamed... or simply boiled for meat extraction, grilled with salt and chili dipping sauce. Visitors to Nha Trang can enjoy the picturesque seascape, fresh air, and indulge in mantis shrimp freshly caught from the sea. It's an unforgettable experience for any traveler!

Fishing boats catching mantis shrimp in Ngoc Diem village. Photo: Bùi Toàn/Vnexpress.

Steamed mantis shrimp with lemongrass. Photo: @anheoh.

Posted by: Đặng Phương Anh

Keywords: Bustling mantis shrimp season, exquisite specialty of Nha Trang's seas

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to catch mantis shrimp in Nha Trang?

The best time to catch mantis shrimp in Nha Trang is from March to November, as this period marks the peak of the shrimp catching season. During these months, the coastal waters are bustling with activity, and fishermen can expect a high yield, especially at Nha Phu Estuary.

What dishes can be made with freshly caught mantis shrimp?

Freshly caught mantis shrimp can be prepared in various delicious ways, including garlic stir-fry, salted roasted, tamarind roasted, lemongrass steamed, and simply boiled. These cooking methods enhance the shrimp's natural flavors, making them a delightful dish for seafood lovers.

How are mantis shrimp caught by fishermen in Nha Trang?

Fishermen in Nha Trang typically catch mantis shrimp by using motorboats to navigate deeper waters as the sea level decreases. They set traps and nets in areas where the shrimp are known to thrive, especially around the Nha Phu Estuary.

Are mantis shrimp considered a delicacy in Vietnam?

Yes, mantis shrimp are highly regarded as a delicacy in Vietnam. Their firm, rich flesh and unique flavor make them a favorite among seafood enthusiasts, and they are often sought after during the shrimp catching season.

What factors influence the price of mantis shrimp in Nha Trang?

The price of mantis shrimp in Nha Trang is influenced by several factors, including their size, the time of year, and market demand. Prices typically range from 130,000 to 250,000 Vietnamese Dong per kilogram, with larger shrimp fetching higher prices due to their desirability.