Buzz
From shredded pork rolls to snail-infused sizzling rice pancakes and smashed bananas, these are the authentic, mouthwatering dishes that perfectly encapsulate the spirit of the people in the coconut haven of Bến Tre.
Must-Try Local Specialties in Bến Tre
Bến Tre, the land of coconuts, boasts vast coconut groves intricately woven into the lives of its people. Alongside delectable coconut-infused dishes, Bến Tre is renowned for its unique and hearty local specialties, embodying the open-hearted nature of its inhabitants.
Smashed Bananas
A quintessential dish of the coconut land, smashed bananas are not just a favorite snack but also a nostalgic reminder for those far from home. These bananas, selected for ripeness, are grilled in street-side stalls. They must be the right mix of ripe and yellow to avoid mushiness when grilled.
After peeling, bananas are sliced and placed in a flat nylon bag, then grilled until they turn a glossy yellow and emit a fragrant aroma. Grilled bananas are dipped in thick coconut milk, making them a delightful evening snack.
Rice Snail Pancakes
While banh xeo (sizzling pancakes) is a familiar dish in Southern Vietnam, rice snail pancakes are a local specialty from Phu Da Islet (Chợ Lách District – Bến Tre). This islet is one of the rare places in the Mekong Delta with the largest population of rice snails. Every year, the snails breed most actively in the 4th and 5th lunar months, reaching their peak around Tet Doan Ngo.
White, firm, aromatic meat of rice snails is often stir-fried with lemongrass and chili, serving as the filling for banh xeo instead of shrimp or meat. The sautéed snails, along with thinly sliced onions, are used as the filling, rolled with fresh herbs like mustard greens, lettuce, and basil. The unique flavors leave diners craving more without feeling overwhelmed.
Xat Cake Soup
The Mekong Delta is the land of xat cake soup, known as banh canh bot xat. The main ingredient is rice flour, and depending on the region, it may be called banh canh bot gao. To make xat cake soup, the cook must roll out the dough, then cut it into thin strips that are placed in the pot, earning it the name banh canh bot xat.
Banh canh, a savory Vietnamese noodle soup, often features duck and is delicately seasoned with ginger-infused fish sauce. Some regions enhance its broth with young shrimp or dried shrimp for added sweetness. The distinct milky broth, derived from rice flour, sets it apart from other noodle dishes. While this dish is popular in Saigon and some other provinces, it is a bit more elusive in its presence. When savoring banh canh in Ben Tre, don't forget to order a side of rich, coagulated duck blood rice pudding.
Coconut Worms
Mentioning Ben Tre inevitably brings thoughts of the land of coconuts. 'Returning to the land of coconut/ Remember to savor the unique dish, coconut worms.' Coconut worms, also known as coconut grubs, stand out as one of Ben Tre's specialties. The fat, succulent larvae from the heart of the coconut are not only a nutritious food source but also contribute to the growth of these coconut worms.
From these coconut worms, various delectable dishes emerge, such as batter-fried coconut worms, grilled coconut worms, and even raw coconut worm delicacies. The batter-fried coconut worms offer a crispy texture and rich flavor. To balance the richness, some enjoy them with fresh vegetables. Esteemed food enthusiasts in Vietnam acknowledge coconut worms as a top-tier delicacy, surpassing many other culinary delights.
Source: Zing News
***
Source: Travel Guide by Mytour
MytourAugust 21, 2015
