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Western Dolphins – A Seasonal Delicacy Fetching a Whopping Price of VND 1 Million per Kilogram

Western Dolphins, a unique delicacy of the flood season in the Western region of Vietnam, offers a culinary delight with a variety of mouth-watering dishes. From grilled to stewed and sour soup delights, this specialty promises a flavorful explosion of the region's culinary heritage.

Administrator

28 July, 2024

Western dolphins are one of those specialties that anyone who visits the region is curious to see. Today, let’s join us to learn more about this unique seasonal delicacy!

1What are Western Dolphins?

Western dolphins are a freshwater fish species commonly found in areas with strong currents during the flood season (around July to October).

In terms of appearance, this fish has a very unique color pattern and a sleek, shiny skin. The body of the fish is a combination of different colors, such as red and green. The tail, fins, and barbels of the dolphin fish have a beautiful orange-red color.

Western dolphins have a unique color pattern and shiny skin

This fish is typically only available during the flood season and is most commonly found in the Hau and Tien Rivers. The number of fish decreases as you move downstream to the provinces of Can Tho, Soc Trang, and Hau Giang.

Visitors are often surprised to find that Western dolphins are only about three fingers long and measure around 10 cm. The body of the fish is flat, with the largest individuals reaching about a palm’s length, and they lack scales. Each time this fish appears, it makes a “éc éc” sound, similar to the squeal of a pig. Hence, the locals call it the “dolphin fish.”

Western dolphins are just about three fingers long

2Price of Western Dolphin Fish

Currently, there are many places offering Western dolphin fish at various price points. The price of Western dolphin fish varies depending on its size and appearance.

The price of Western dolphin fish is approximately: 790,000 VND/kg (around 35 – 45 fish/kg).

Western dolphin fish costs around 590,000 VND/kg

3Delicious Dishes Made with Western Dolphin Fish

Western Dolphin Sour Soup

Western dolphin sour soup is a simple and easy-to-make dish, capturing the essence of the riverine region. Despite its simplicity, it is loved by many. Western dolphin sour soup is typically served with hot rice, combining the sourness of the soup with the sweetness of the fish to create a delightful and flavorful meal. This dish can be found in restaurants throughout the Western region.

Western Dolphin Sour Soup

Western Dolphin Fish Cooked with Lemongrass and Chili

Western dolphin fish cooked with lemongrass and chili is a mouthwatering and easy-to-prepare dish. To make delicious lemongrass-marinated Western dolphin fish, first, clean the fish and use water or vinegar to remove any fishy odor. Marinating the fish with spices before cooking enhances its aroma and flavor.

Marinate the fish with common spices and add a touch of fish sauce to enhance the flavor. Simmer on low heat to ensure even cooking. Just before the fish is done cooking, add a dash of oil. The aroma of this dish is sure to make your mouth water.

Western Dolphin Fish Cooked with Lemongrass and Chili

Western Dolphin Fish Braised in a Clay Pot

Western dolphin fish braised in a clay pot is simple and easy to make. For the best taste, choose fresh dolphin fish, remove the head, and clean the intestines. Clean the fish and remove any fishy odor. The final dish should have a fragrant aroma, tender fish meat, and a flavorful sauce. It’s so delicious and tempting that you’ll want to keep eating it!

Western Dolphin Fish Braised in a Clay Pot

We hope that through this article, you have learned about a unique specialty of the Western region during the flood season. If you have the opportunity to visit, don’t miss out on trying these delicious dishes made with Western dolphin fish!

Frequently asked questions

Western dolphins are a type of fish that are commonly found in the Mekong River delta region of Vietnam. They are considered a seasonal delicacy due to their limited availability and are known for their firm flesh and delicate flavor.

Western dolphins fetch a high price in the market, with a cost of up to VND 1 million per kilogram. This price is due to the fish’s popularity and the fact that they are difficult to catch, making them a rare and valuable commodity.

Catching Western dolphins is a challenging task as they are fast swimmers and often found in deep waters. Fishermen use special nets and techniques to catch them, and the process can be dangerous and time-consuming.

There are concerns about the sustainability of Western dolphin fishing due to their declining population. It is important to follow regulations and practices that ensure the protection of the species and the environment.

Western dolphins are typically prepared in a variety of ways in Vietnam, including grilling, steaming, or frying. They are considered a versatile ingredient and are often served as a special dish during festivals and celebrations.