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Fragrant, tender chicken meat perfectly complemented by a coating of charred bamboo charcoal powder, promising a delightful culinary adventure.
Saigon's Latest Sensation: Ebony Fried Chicken
Originating from Japan, a nation known for its culinary creativity, ebony fried chicken once drove the youth of the Land of the Rising Sun wild. Now, it's among the list of unique dishes in Saigon, leaving food enthusiasts intrigued by its peculiar appearance.
Saigon's youth playfully call it the 'midnight chicken' due to its charred, ebony skin. Essentially, chefs coat the chicken with a layer of bamboo charcoal powder after marinating it in the usual crispy batter used for frying chicken, giving it a standout and unique color. This bamboo charcoal powder, often imported directly from Japan, is deemed safe and even beneficial for health, aiding in detoxification and skin health...
When eating, diners can use their hands to split the chicken pieces and discover the hot, fragrant meat inside, without the expected burnt taste. The meat is just tender enough, with a hint of fat that looks inviting. You can even consume the outer charcoal layer without hesitation. The bamboo charcoal powder adds a slightly gritty sensation, reminiscent of eating charcoal, but it's minimal. In fact, many enjoy this innovative way of eating.
Spicy chicken dipped in slightly sweet chili sauce, accompanied by a few refreshing salad slices and a fizzy drink for quick digestion is the perfect combo. In Saigon, you can find this dish at Bac Hai Tenement (District 10), priced at 99,000 Vietnamese dong for a portion of 4 chicken pieces, just enough for 2 people to enjoy. However, eating this dish may leave your hands and mouth messy, so if it's your first date, you should carefully consider before choosing a midnight chicken restaurant.
By Vi Yen/Star
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Reference: Mytour Travel Guide
MytourSeptember 6, 2018
