The Tasty Treasures of Phu Yen: 7 Delicacies That Will Impress

Bánh ít lá gai is a traditional Vietnamese delicacy that can be found in many provinces across the country, each with its own unique twist. However, the bánh ít lá gai of Phú Yên stands out with its distinct sweet and delicate flavor. The perfect blend of mung beans, lá gai leaves, sticky rice, and coconut creates a taste that is uniquely Phú Yên. This delicious treat is not only a culinary delight but also carries a deep cultural significance, making it an excellent choice for a thoughtful gift.

While the sweet-filled bánh ít lá gai is a classic, Phú Yên also offers a unique savory version. This innovative twist features a filling made of shrimp, meat, and mung beans, paired with a sweet and sour dipping sauce. It’s a must-try when visiting Phú Yên and a great choice to bring home as a tasty souvenir.

Muối Kiến Vàng – Golden Ant Salt:

Muối kiến vàng, or golden ant salt, is a unique delicacy native to Phú Yên. This special salt is made from a specific type of golden ant found in the region’s trees and forests. The locals carefully collect these ants and their eggs, clean them, and then roast them with a blend of spices, creating a distinct flavor profile. The taste of muối kiến vàng is a complex combination of mild spiciness, sourness, sweetness, and a hint of bitterness, making it a fascinating and mouthwatering condiment.

Muối kiến vàng is a traditional product of Phú Yên and is commonly used as a dip for green star fruit, sour mango, and guava. It also pairs exceptionally well with “bò một nắng,” creating a perfect duo of Phú Yên specialties. Additionally, this golden ant salt can be used to enhance the flavor of steamed rice and boiled meat dishes.

Rich in protein and over 20 types of amino acids, muối kiến vàng is not only delicious but also nutritious. Its unique blend of salty, spicy, sour, and slightly bitter flavors will leave a lasting impression. Be sure to grab a few jars of this distinctive Phú Yên specialty to share with your loved ones back home.

Bò Một Nắng – Sun-Dried Beef:

One of the most renowned specialties of Phú Yên is bò một nắng, or sun-dried beef. This delicious treat is made from locally sourced beef, allowing the natural flavors of the meat to shine through. The beef is carefully marinated and then sun-dried, resulting in a sweet and chewy texture with a captivating aroma.

Bò một nắng is a nutritious and easy-to-preserve delicacy that has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Its distinctive flavor and texture, reminiscent of dried squid, make it an excellent choice for grilling or enjoying with a cold beer. When shopping for souvenirs, expect to pay around 500,000 to 700,000 VND per kilogram of this delicious treat.

Chả Cá – Fish Cake:

When it comes to finding the perfect gift from Phú Yên, look no further than its famous chả cá, or fish cake. This delicacy is a must-try for anyone visiting the region, and it also makes a convenient and flavorful souvenir. As a coastal province, Phú Yên boasts an abundance of fresh seafood, and the fish used to make these cakes is of the highest quality.

The fish cakes of Phú Yên are renowned for their golden, crispy exterior and chewy texture. The flavor is simply indescribable, and once you’ve tasted it, you’ll never forget it. This is a true taste of Phú Yên that you won’t find anywhere else.

Dry Seafood:

Phú Yên’s coastline offers a bounty of seafood, and if you’re looking for a convenient way to enjoy these delights back home, consider purchasing dry seafood products. From squid to shrimp and a variety of fish, Phú Yên’s dry seafood selection has something for everyone.

The options are endless, from the irresistible squid rings, specially seasoned squid, and salted squid to a variety of dried fish, including golden ribbonfish, snakehead fish, catfish, basa, and stingray. These dry seafood products capture the essence of Phú Yên’s coastal cuisine, making them the perfect gift for foodies and seafood lovers.

After your trip, be sure to stock up on these delicious treats to share with your family and friends. There’s nothing quite like enjoying a tasty seafood snack with a cold beer while reminiscing about your travels.

Nước Mắm – Fish Sauce:

Phú Yên is renowned for its exceptional fish sauce, a staple in Vietnamese cuisine. The region’s century-old tradition of crafting fish sauce from fresh cá cơm, salt, and water, without any additional flavorings, has resulted in a product that is not only delicious but also healthy. The simple ingredients used in Phú Yên’s fish sauce not only preserve the flavor of the cá cơm but also contribute to a healthier condiment.

During your visit to Xứ Nẫu, be sure to indulge in the local specialties paired with Phú Yên’s signature fish sauce. The mild saltiness and pure flavor of this sauce make it the perfect complement to any dish. It’s a true taste of Phú Yên that you can take home and use to elevate your everyday meals.

Bánh Tráng Hòa Đa – Hòa Đa Rice Paper:

Phú Yên is renowned for its rice paper production, and among the many villages dedicated to this craft, Hòa Đa stands out. Located in the Tuy An district, this small village has perfected the art of rice paper-making, turning it into a sought-after specialty. The rice paper produced in Hòa Đa is of exceptional quality, and its unique taste and texture make it a must-buy when visiting Phú Yên.