Buzz
Blood pudding, fermented shrimp paste, fried crickets, dog and cat meat... are the favored dishes for many Vietnamese. However, they become a 'shocking' experience for numerous foreign tourists on their initial visit to Vietnam.
Irresistible Vietnamese Delicacies that Conquer Tourists in Vietnam
Blood Pudding
Blood pudding is a culinary delight that entices the taste buds of drinking enthusiasts. This unique Vietnamese delicacy is exclusively crafted from fresh blood without any cooking involved. The raw animal blood is mixed with a pinch of salt before being combined with finely chopped meat, small animal cartilage, topped with a sprinkle of roasted peanuts, and garnished with fresh herbs.
For enthusiasts, this dish is a delectable delight, especially appealing during the summer for its sweet and refreshing flavor. However, behind these bowls of blood pudding, there lurk potential health hazards such as pig tapeworms, parasites, worms, and inflammation of the brain... if unlucky diners consume blood tainted with diseases.
Animal Organs
In some East Asian countries, people have a habit of consuming animal organs such as heart, liver, intestines, and gallbladder, including Vietnam. In Western countries, the norm is generally to eat only the meat and skin of animals, discarding the internal organs. First-time travelers to tour Vietnam may find dishes made from animal organs to be peculiar.
However, despite the tempting flavors, doctors advise against consuming excessive amounts of this type of food due to its high protein and cholesterol content, especially in the brain, liver, and kidneys.
Thang Co
Thang Co is a traditional dish originating from the H'mong people and later adopted by the Tay, Dao, and Kinh ethnic groups. The Thang Co pot is cooked with main ingredients consisting of the internal organs of horses, cows, goats, or pigs. They are stir-fried until firm, then simmered for hours to tenderize.
Essential spices for the dish include cinnamon, cardamom, and star anise. When visiting the Northwest mountains of Vietnam during spring, you'll frequently encounter steaming pots of Thang Co amid the chilly weather. However, this dish can sometimes be challenging for foreign visitors on their first trip to Vietnam.
Coconut Delight
The coconut worm dish is one of Vietnam's 'challenging' specialties, testing both local and international tourists. The worm is a type of larvae found in coconut trees, hollowing and piercing through the coconut buds. Those who have tasted it describe the dish as rich, flavorful, and a true delicacy of the Mekong Delta region.
The coconut worm can be prepared in various ways, such as grilling, butter frying, or steaming with coconut water. However, the most rustic way is to enjoy the live coconut worms dipped in pure fish sauce. The live, plump worms in the sauce dish resemble little creatures, giving many an uncanny feeling.
Dog and Cat Meat
In the United States, there is even a 'Pet Association' dedicated to protecting the rights of pets, including dogs and cats. In Western countries, these animals are not just pets but also cherished members of the family. It's not too surprising that foreigners feel horrified when encountering dishes featuring dog or small tiger commonly sold in Vietnam.
According to Dân Trí
Sparkling Magic
Reference: Travel guide by Mytour
MytourDecember 2, 2015
