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Where to Buy Yellow Ant Salt?

Introducing the renowned delicacy of Gia Lai province, Vietnam - Salt of the Yellow Ant. This unique seasoning is a local specialty, but where can one acquire this elusive ingredient? Stay tuned as we unveil the secrets to sourcing this golden treasure!

Administrator

14 July, 2024

Yellow ant salt is made from yellow ants that live high up in the trees of the Central Highlands region of Vietnam. Harvesters use long sticks to knock down ant nests, collecting the ants in a basket attached to the end of the stick.

Once collected, the ants are roasted to remove any dirt and impurities. Spices and seasonings are then added to the mix, creating a unique and flavorful salt. This salt is a delicious alternative to regular salt and can be used as a dip for fruits or as a seasoning for grilled meats.

But where can you buy this unique ingredient? Here are 5 reputable shops that sell yellow ant salt:

1 Huong Rung Food

Address: 29/2 Kha Van Can, Hiep Binh Chanh, Thu Duc, Ho Chi Minh City
Phone: 0909652109
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/huongrung.net/
Website: https://huongrung.net/san-pham/muoi-kien-vang/
Price: 350,000 VND/kg ($15.13/kg)

Huong Rung Food’s yellow ant salt has a distinctive and exotic flavor. It can be used as a dip for sour fruits or as a replacement for chili salt. With a mild spiciness and a hint of sourness, this salt is a delicious gift from nature, enhanced by human creativity.

2 Dac San Ba Mien Viet Nam (Three Regions Specialty Store)

Address: 571/3H Cach Mang Thang 8, Ward 15, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City
Phone: 0938711019 or 0916853968
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vovestore/
Website: https://vove.com.vn/products/muoi-kien-vang
Price: 40,000 VND/small jar ($1.73/small jar)

Dac San Ba Mien Viet Nam offers a range of specialties from the three regions of Vietnam, including yellow ant salt. Their salt has a well-balanced blend of spices and is not too spicy, making it accessible to those who can’t handle a lot of heat.

3 Gio Cha Thy Van (Thy Van Pork Store)

Address: 1414/3 Le Duc Tho, Ward 13, Go Vap District, Ho Chi Minh City
Phone: 0906134679
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/giochathyvan60/
Website: http://chabochinhhieudanang.vn/dac-san-mien-trung/dia-chi-ban-muoi-kien-vang-ngon-tai-sai-gon-tphcm.html
Price: 380,000 VND/kg ($16.46/kg)

Thy Van’s yellow ant salt is certified for food safety and hygiene, so you can purchase with peace of mind. Their products are mostly homemade and do not contain any additives or preservatives, ensuring absolute safety. Their products also have clear expiration dates, so you know you’re getting fresh ingredients.

4 An Nam Shop

Address: 121 Le Ngung, Tan Tao A Ward, Binh Tan District, Ho Chi Minh City
Phone: 0908680024
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thucphamannamshop/
Website: https://annamshop.com/muoi-kien-vang/
Price: 40,000 – 370,000 VND ($1.73 – $16.02)

An Nam Shop offers yellow ant salt from Phu Yen, a different variety from the more common Gia Lai salt. If you’re curious about the regional differences, An Nam Shop is a great place to start. Their staff is knowledgeable and passionate, and they offer quick delivery as well.

5 Se San Food

Address: 84 Bui Quang La, Ward 12, Go Vap District, Ho Chi Minh City (Headquarters)
Phone: 0938629728
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sesanfood/
Website: https://sesanfood.com/san-pham/muoi-kien-vang-gia-lai/
Price: 60,000 VND/100g, 120,000 VND/200g ($2.59/100g, $5.18/200g)

Se San Food stands out with its elegant glass jar packaging, elevating the overall presentation of the product. They offer a range of specialty products, including yellow ant salt, and their website makes it easy to browse and purchase their offerings.

Frequently asked questions

You can purchase yellow ant salt online from specialty stores and some larger retailers. It is also available in some physical stores, particularly those specializing in Asian groceries and ingredients.

Yellow ant salt, or ‘muoi sau hoi’, is a unique ingredient used in Vietnamese and Southeast Asian cuisine. It is made from the eggs of jungle tree ants, which are collected and then mixed with salt and other ingredients. This process creates a salty, slightly acidic seasoning with a unique flavor that enhances dishes.

Yellow ant salt can be used as a seasoning or condiment. It is often added to soups, stews, and stir-fries to enhance the flavor. It can also be used as a table condiment, similar to salt and pepper, allowing diners to season their food to taste.

Yellow ant salt is believed to have various health benefits in traditional medicine. It is said to aid digestion, boost appetite, and even have anti-inflammatory properties. However, it is always recommended to consume such ingredients in moderation and consult a healthcare professional for specific advice.

While it is possible to make your own yellow ant salt, it is a complex and time-consuming process. It requires access to jungle tree ant eggs, which are not easily obtainable. The process also involves specific techniques to ensure the eggs are properly cleaned and prepared. For most people, purchasing yellow ant salt is a more feasible option.