Buzz
Cua Lo's Jumping Squid proudly secures its position among the top 10 most delectable seafood in Vietnam. This not only serves as a significant opportunity to promote Vietnam and specifically Nghệ An to both local and international tourists but also provides travelers with an additional choice of fresh and delightful seafood during their journeys.
Named Jumping Squid of Cua Lo because when caught, it remains fresh, lively, and jumps about. This characteristic contributes to the irresistibly delicious taste of Nghệ An's seafood. If you have ever traveled to Nghệ An, you surely won't forget the lingering flavors of dishes prepared with this Jumping Squid.
1. What sets Nghệ An's Jumping Squid apart?
Fishermen in Cua Lo typically commence squid fishing from March to July in the lunar calendar. To obtain a batch of fresh squid, they fish through the night and release them into cages positioned just below the floating rafts. Despite this, the translucent squids still swim about as if in their natural sea environment.
Jumping Squid is a specialty of Nghệ An that has captivated many diners visiting this region. The squids, when caught for preparation, remain lively, bursting with freshness, and their eyes and spots on their bodies shimmer with vibrant colors, hence the name 'Jumping Squid' or 'Squid Jumps.' This unique name establishes a distinctive brand found only in the Cua Lo region.
In 2012, the Vietnam Record Book Center unveiled the top 10 specialties, and Jumping Squid of Cua Lo proudly secured a place in this list. This event helped the famous Central Vietnamese specialty gain recognition among both domestic and international tourists.
2. How to enjoy Cua Lo's Jumping Squid
Similar to Vũng Áng jumping squid, Nghệ An's jumping squid can be transformed into various dishes such as salads, steamed, boiled, stir-fried, grilled, and more. Regardless of the cooking method, ginger and tamarind are essential spices, making this dish 'burst with flavor' and truly special.
2.1. Grilled Jumping Squid from Cua Lo
To savor the jumping squid dish authentically, you must consume it right on the spot. The squid, caught and quickly rinsed in clean water, is immediately grilled. Ensuring this style of consumption will preserve 100% of the sea's flavor. Although Cua Lo squid is only the size of 1 – 2 fingers, when grilled, it turns golden brown, with incredibly sweet, crispy flesh. Dip it in a mixture of fish sauce, tamarind, and pepper, and you'll be craving for more at just the sight of it.
2.2. Steamed Jumping Squid from Cua Lo
Boiled or steamed squid are quite similar, but steaming helps the squid retain a fresher taste. Rinse the squid thoroughly with water and marinate it with ginger. Add a little beer or coconut water to the steaming liquid to eliminate any fishy odor.
When the water in the steaming pot is boiling, it's a sign that the dish is ready. You can scoop it out and enjoy immediately. Although the cooking method may be a bit more intricate than boiling, it's undoubtedly worth it, don't you think?
2.3. Dried Jumping Squid from Cua Lo
To make it more convenient for travelers to bring Nghệ An specialties as gifts, locals have come up with the idea of sun-drying jumping squid. Caught right in the coastal area, the squid retains its natural sweetness and the enticing aroma of the sea. Sun-dried squid has the perfect texture—chewy yet tender. Grilled dried squid is also delicious, especially when paired with a cold beer.
In the land of Nghệ An, amidst countless famous specialties, this region also attracts tourists with captivating destinations such as Cửa Hội, Cửa Lò, and the Pù Mát Nghệ An National Park…
To fully experience the delicious cuisine and explore exciting attractions in Nghệ An, find a quality accommodation with all the amenities, such as Vinpearl Discovery Cửa Hội. The hotel's convenient location ensures easy transportation, providing travelers with a comprehensive and comfortable journey.
Especially, Vinpearl is currently offering a FREE registration for the Pearl Club membership card with incredibly attractive privileges:
Mực nhảy Cửa Lò is not just a dish; it embodies the distinctive culinary culture of this region. If you ever get the chance to visit Nghệ An, experience the thrill of squid fishing on the fishermen's boats amidst the sea waves for a fascinating night!
Posted by: Quỳnh Đặng
Keywords: Savoring jumping squid in Cửa Lò - an irresistible specialty of Nghệ An
