The Co To archipelago is home to a plethora of local seafood specialties. The 'pearl mussel salad' might be lesser-known, but that doesn't diminish the allure of this dish!
Discovering the exotic flavors of 'pearl mussel' salad in Co To
The 'pearl mussel,' also known as the 'mai bean,' has long been transformed into various delicious dishes by the people of Co To. Among them, the salad stands out as a favorite, leaving a lasting impression on anyone who tries it.

To make a tasty 'pearl mussel' salad, the mussels must be fresh, just caught. Choose large mussels with plump flesh, ensuring that the 'pearl mussel' is also large and remains intact when sliced. After cleaning, drain the water and slice the mussels thinly lengthwise. Then, let them sit in the freezer for 10 minutes to make the 'pearl mussel' crispy and still fresh.

The dipping sauce for this salad is quite diverse. You can choose soy sauce with added garlic and chili, tamarind sauce, or prepare fish sauce with garlic and chili along with galangal, brown sugar, ginger, lemongrass, and lime juice. Additionally, the salad is accompanied by various aromatic herbs and roasted peanuts.
When indulging, a bowl of lemon-infused water is elegantly placed on the table. With each bite, release the spring rolls and mix them generously for a refreshing experience. The slices of fresh and succulent rolls, accompanied by fragrant herbs, crispy roasted peanuts, and the zesty kick of lime or the spicy touch of chili in the dipping sauce bowl, all blend harmoniously, making it impossible for you to stop using chopsticks.

The cuisine of Cô Tô has never ceased to allure travelers from far and wide. Come to Cô Tô once to fully immerse yourself in the fascinating culinary delights of the island. And don't forget to contact Mytour to receive special offers for this summer's Cô Tô tour!
By Mytour
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Reference: Travel guide by Mytour
MytourJuly 26, 2022