Individuals originating from the rural areas of Hue surely cherish the taste of the frog dish that mothers used to prepare for the entire family when the rainy season arrived.
The Speciality of Field Frogs During the Rainy Season in Hue Province
Frogs are considered a seasonal delicacy in the rural landscapes of Hue farmers. It is the time when frogs leap onto the banks, moving to higher places, creating a resonant croak that echoes in all directions. Locals often refer to frogs as escorting fairies because, when mature, their bodies are only as small as a thumb, with a green arrow-shaped mark on their forehead.
At night, they usually go to the fields to catch the escorting fairies to diversify the family meals. People often observe frogs in the evening when they jump out of their hiding places to pair up or find prey. Frogs tend to freeze when exposed to light, making it easy to catch dozens of them. In many suburban areas around Hue city, residents also seize the opportunity to catch frogs and sell them to restaurants to supplement their income.
Field frogs are not just a favorite dish for many but also provide numerous nutrients for the body. Frog meat can be transformed into various delicious dishes such as stir-fried with lemongrass and chili, cooked in porridge, or made into sausages... but the most popular is crispy fried frogs.
The frog skin is smooth, so when preparing the meat, it needs to be tightly held to prevent it from slipping away. A knife is used to remove the head, gently peel off the skin, remove the intestines, leaving only the meat. It is then thoroughly washed and drained.
For crispy fried frogs, housewives in Hue marinate them with salt, pepper, onions, chili, and garlic to allow the flavors to penetrate. After that, they are rolled in flour to create a white outer layer. The frying process is simple; just put the marinated frogs in a pan with a little butter, mix well until the flour layer turns golden brown and releases a fragrant aroma. Crispy fried frogs are best enjoyed hot, crunchy, and dipped in chili sauce or spicy fish sauce, making them a perfect appetizer for dads to enjoy with strong liquor.
Source: Vnexpress
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Reference: Travel guide Mytour
MytourJanuary 26, 2016