Sizzling Saigon Delight: Beef Stew Tempts Amidst Noon Sun

A cozy spot in the alleys of Chợ 200 (District 4) beckons many diners to indulge amidst Saigon's scorching days.

Sizzling Saigon Delight: Beef Stew Tempts Amidst Noon Sun

Crafted from animal offal, beef stew may be an acquired taste. But once sampled, you'll find it hard to resist the allure of this street food. Nestled deep in alley 243 leading to Chợ 200, District 4 (Saigon), is a beef stew eatery cherished by many patrons.

Mrs. Nga, the owner, starts prepping around 11 a.m. daily. By 12 p.m., the doors open to welcome guests. Two pots of stew simmer over the crackling flames. As ingredients dwindle, the owner promptly adds more.

Here, beef stew is served with bread or instant noodles. The ingredients are meticulously cleaned, devoid of any unpleasant odor or toughness. The stew emits a fragrant aroma, enriched by the creaminess of coconut milk.

The dish loses its deliciousness without the sweet and sour taste of tamarind fish sauce. You can ask the owner to adjust the spiciness of the dipping sauce.

Although not heated before serving, the bread is kept tightly wrapped to ensure crispiness. A common way to enjoy it is by dipping the bread into the stew broth, accompanied by a piece of chewy tripe soaked in tamarind fish sauce.

Nestled in the snack paradise of Chợ 200, District 4 (Saigon), Mrs. Nga's eatery has been open for a few years now but is always bustling, especially at lunchtime. 'We close when we run out of food, usually around 4 p.m. - 5 p.m.,' the owner said.

Two types of beverages chosen by patrons to cool off on hot days at the eatery are pennywort juice and sugarcane juice. Priced at 5,000 - 10,000 dong per glass.

According to Di Vỹ/Vnexpress

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Reference: Travel Guide by Mytour