The Tasty Delights of Tra Vinh: 15 Local Specialties to Savour and Gift

Trà Vinh, a charming destination in Vietnam, boasts a delightful array of local specialties that tantalize the taste buds of visitors and locals alike. Beyond its scenic beauty and cultural richness, Trà Vinh lures food enthusiasts on a delectable journey with its 15 must-try delicacies. These culinary delights, crafted with local expertise and fresh ingredients, offer an explosion of flavors unique to the region, making it a food lover's paradise. Whether you're indulging on-site or seeking souvenirs, Trà Vinh's specialties will leave you with unforgettable culinary memories.

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Tra Vinh is a small province located in the Mekong Delta region of southwestern Vietnam. With its rich history and diverse culture, Tra Vinh is an attractive tourist destination for those who want to explore the culture and lifestyle of the people in this region.

Tra Vinh is known for its numerous fascinating tourist attractions, such as Tra Su Floating Market, Hang Pagoda, An Binh Islet, Tram Chim National Park, My Quy Tay International Border Gate, Cau Ke Mango Garden, Unification Palace, Ong Met Pagoda, Tra Vinh Provincial Museum, and various historical relics.

An overview of Tra Vinh tourism

1Introduction to Tra Vinh Tourism

As mentioned, Tra Vinh is a small province in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam. Its unique history and diverse cultural influences, including Khmer and Chinese cultures, make it a fascinating place to visit. The province is known for its friendly and hospitable locals, rich cultural heritage, and beautiful natural landscapes.

When visiting Tra Vinh, there are several must-visit attractions. The Tra Su Floating Market is a vibrant and colorful experience, where you can interact with local traders and sample fresh produce. For those interested in religious sites, the Hang Pagoda and Ong Met Pagoda are definitely worth a visit. The former is a unique cave temple, while the latter is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere.

Nature lovers will also find plenty to explore in Tra Vinh. The Tram Chim National Park is a great place to observe diverse bird species and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. Additionally, the My Quy Tay International Border Gate offers a glimpse into the region’s trade and cultural exchange with neighboring countries.

Introduction to Tra Vinh tourism

2Top 15 Tra Vinh Specialties to Try and Buy as Gifts

Specialties to Try When Visiting Tra Vinh

Bun Nuoc Leo (Rice Noodle Soup)

Bun Nuoc Leo is a signature dish of Tra Vinh and a must-try for any visitor. This flavorful soup features a rich broth and roasted pork, creating an explosion of flavors. Don’t forget to add the accompanying herbs to enhance the taste even further.

Price range: 20,000 – 25,000 VND/bowl.

Recommended restaurant:

  • Quan Cay Sung – Bun Nuoc Leo: 676 Vo Nguyen Giap, Ward 8, Tra Vinh.

Bun Nuoc Leo

Chù U Rang Me (Crab in Tamarind Sauce)

Chù U Rang Me is a unique specialty of Tra Vinh that you shouldn’t miss. Chù U, a type of crab with a small square body and slightly droopy eyes, is cooked in a sweet and sour tamarind sauce that will leave you craving for more.

Price range: 100,000 – 120,000 VND/500g.

Recommended restaurant:

  • Quan Ngoc Tien: Ham Tan, Tra Cu, Tra Vinh.

Chù U Rang Me

Banh Canh Ben Co (Ben Co Noodle Soup)

Banh Canh Ben Co is another famous dish of Tra Vinh that has gained popularity among tourists. The sweet and clear broth is simmered for hours, and the dish is served with the distinct flavors of cilantro and ground pepper. Make sure to try this delightful dish when you’re in the area.

Price range: 25,000 – 35,000 VND/bowl.

Recommended restaurant:

  • Banh Canh Ben Co Ut Hao: QL53, Nguyet Hoa, Chau Thanh, Tra Vinh.

Banh Canh Ben Co

Bun Suong (Rice Noodles with Shrimp Paste)

Bun Suong, also known as Bun Duong, is a unique dish named after the shrimp paste that is shaped like caterpillars (“suong” in Vietnamese). This dish is a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors, truly representative of Tra Vinh’s cuisine. Trying this specialty is a must when visiting Tra Vinh.

Price range: 15,000 – 25,000 VND/bowl.

Recommended restaurant:

  • Bun Suong Hui Yen: 56 Hung Vuong, Ward 3, Tra Vinh.

Bun Suong

Chao Ca Khoai (Porridge with Silver Perch)

Chao Ca Khoai is a delicious suggestion that you shouldn’t miss when traveling to Tra Vinh. This porridge combines soft and sweet fish with a well-seasoned broth. To enhance the flavor, don’t forget to add some water morning glory, bean sprouts, or chives.

Price range: 20,000 – 25,000 VND/bowl.

Recommended restaurant:

  • Bien Ba Dong: Truong Long Hoa, Duyen Hai, Tra Vinh.

Chao Ca Khoai

Specialties to Buy as Gifts from Tra Vinh

Tra Vinh Wax Coconut

Tra Vinh Wax Coconut

Tra Vinh Wax Coconut is a rare and delicious specialty that you must try when visiting the province. What sets this coconut apart is its exceptionally sticky and fragrant flesh, which is very different from that of regular coconuts. During your visit to Tra Vinh, be sure to indulge in this delicacy and buy some to take home as gifts.

Price range: 200,000 VND/coconut.

Recommended purchase location:

  • Cau Ke Wax Coconut: Ap Vinh Truong, Chau Thanh, Tra Vinh.
  • Thi Thi Wax Coconut: No. 171 National Highway 60, Ward 3, Tra Vinh.

Vinh Kim Dried Shrimp

Vinh Kim Dried Shrimp

If you’re visiting Tra Vinh and happen to pass through Cau Ngang district, don’t forget to buy some Vinh Kim dried shrimp for your family and loved ones. This specialty is beloved by both locals and tourists for its natural sweetness and thick, firm shrimp meat.

Price range: 1,300,000 VND/kg.

Recommended purchase location:

  • Vinh Kim Dried Shrimp, Cau Ngang district, Tra Vinh province.

Tra Cuon Banh Tet (Tra Cuon Sticky Rice Cakes)

Tra Cuon Banh Tet

Tra Cuon Banh Tet is a famous specialty of Tra Vinh province. You can buy these sticky rice cakes not only during the Tet holiday but all year round, as they are produced year-round in Tra Cuon, a locality famous for this delicacy. The cakes are fragrant and sticky, with a diverse range of fillings that make them irresistibly tasty.

Price range: 40,000 VND/cake.

Recommended purchase location:

  • Tra Cuon Banh Tet Shop: 72/4 Pham Ngu Lao Street, Ward 1, Tra Vinh.

Quaach – A Unique Tra Vinh Fruit

Quaach Fruit

Quaach is a unique and fascinating fruit that you should try when visiting Tra Vinh. While the outer shell may be hard, the inner seeds are extremely appealing and can be used in various dishes. You can make quaach smoothies, mix it with mắm cá sặc (a type of fish sauce), or use it for pickling.

Price range: 50,000 VND/fruit.

Recommended purchase location:

  • Gardens in Cau Ke, Tra Vinh.

Long Vinh Rươi Fish Sauce

Long Vinh Rươi Fish Sauce

Long Vinh Rươi Fish Sauce is a specialty of Tra Vinh made from rươi (a type of worm) caught and processed by the locals. With a high protein content, this fish sauce has a rich and distinct flavor.

Price range: 110,000 VND/liter.

Recommended purchase location:

  • Ba Dong region, Duyen Hai district, Tra Vinh.

Ta Qua Giant Banana

Ta Qua Giant Banana

Ta Qua is a famous giant banana variety from Tra Vinh, with each banana weighing around 500 grams. You can enjoy these bananas fresh or buy them as gifts for your loved ones.

Price range: 25,000 VND/kg.

Recommended purchase location:

  • Banana warehouse: Le Loi, Ward 1, Tra Vinh City.
  • Gardens in Cau Ke, Tra Vinh.

Nam Thuy Flower Sausage

Nam Thuy Flower Sausage

Nam Thuy Flower Sausage is a beloved Tra Vinh specialty that makes for a great gift. It has a unique flavor and is made using a traditional recipe, with added eggs and an attractive filling. Your family will surely enjoy this delicacy.

Price range: 75,000 – 110,000 VND.

Recommended purchase location:

  • Nam Thuy Flower Sausage Shop: No. 44
Frequently asked questions

There are numerous delicious local specialties in Tra Vinh, a southern province of Vietnam. Some must-try dishes include Cau Ke Rice Noodles, Banh Canh with Duck, and Fish Hotpot with Pineapple. For a unique sweet treat, try the Tra Vinh Banana Cake, and don’t forget to wash it all down with some refreshing Sugarcane Juice.

Cau Ke Rice Noodles, a local favorite, are made from high-quality rice and have a distinctively chewy texture. They are often served with a variety of toppings, such as fried eggs, lean pork, and fresh herbs, and are renowned for their delicious taste and affordable price.

Banh Canh with Duck is a hearty dish of thick rice noodles served in a rich broth with tender duck meat. It’s a popular choice in Tra Vinh, and you can find it at many local restaurants and street food stalls. The duck meat is known for its tenderness and flavorful broth.

Fish Hotpot with Pineapple is a unique combination of sweet and sour flavors. The pineapple adds a refreshing twist to the traditional fish hotpot, making it a perfect dish for those who enjoy a balance of sweet and savory tastes. It’s definitely worth trying when visiting Tra Vinh.

Definitely try the Tra Vinh Banana Cake. It’s a local specialty made with ripe bananas, giving it a naturally sweet flavor. The cake has a soft, moist texture and is often enjoyed as a snack or dessert. It’s a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth while exploring the local cuisine.

Sugarcane Juice is a refreshing and healthy drink option in Tra Vinh. It’s packed with nutrients and has a high sugar content, providing a natural energy boost. The juice is also believed to have cooling properties, making it perfect for beating the heat in Vietnam’s tropical climate.
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