Quảng Bình, a province in Central Vietnam, is famous not only for its magnificent natural landscapes such as Phong Nha-Ke Bang Cave and Son Doong Cave, but also for its many enticing local specialties. Here are some of the well-known delicacies of Quảng Bình:
1. Quảng Bình Rice Noodle Soup (Cháo Canh Quảng Bình)
Cháo canh is a traditional dish from Quảng Bình, consisting of thick rice noodles made from wheat or rice flour, cooked in a broth made from pork bones, shrimp, crab, or fish. This dish is often served with fish cakes, fried shallots, and herbs.
2. Clear Shrimp and Pork Dumplings (Bánh Bột Lọc)
Quảng Bình’s bánh bột lọc is small, transparent dumplings with shrimp or minced pork filling. The dumplings are steamed and served with sweet and sour fish sauce, creating a distinctive and delicious flavor.
3. Deo Sweet Potato (Khoai Deo)
Khoai deo is a snack made from sweet potatoes, which are boiled and then sun-dried. This snack has a natural sweetness and chewy texture, making it an ideal treat and a must-try specialty when visiting Quảng Bình.
4. Fermented Shrimp Paste (Mắm Ruốc)
Quảng Bình’s mắm ruốc is made from tiny shrimp, naturally fermented to produce a distinctive aroma. Mắm ruốc is often used to prepare dishes such as vermicelli with fermented shrimp paste, fried rice with shrimp paste, or served with hot rice and fresh vegetables.
5. Quảng Hòa Pancakes (Bánh Xèo Quảng Hòa)
Bánh xèo Quảng Hòa has a thin, crispy crust filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. The pancakes are fried until golden and served with fresh herbs, rice paper, and sweet and sour fish sauce. The unique and delicious taste of Quảng Hòa pancakes is very appealing to visitors.
6. Khoai Pancakes (Bánh Khoái)
Bánh khoái is a type of pancake similar to bánh xèo but smaller and thicker. The filling includes shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and eggs. Bánh khoái is usually served with a special dipping sauce and fresh vegetables.
7. Hotpot with Khoai Fish (Lẩu Cá Khoai)
Hotpot with khoai fish is a signature dish of Quảng Bình, especially popular in winter. The fish is cleaned and cooked in a hotpot with various vegetables and spices, creating a rich, warm, and delicious dish.
