Introducing Lac Tien Vegetable – The Mountainous Version of “Ngon Bi”
Lac Tien vegetable, also known as wild moringa or lac le vegetable (in some regions), is a vine commonly found in Northern Vietnam. This vegetable often grows wild but is also cultivated by locals as a food source. It has a slender stem, small lush green leaves, and most notably, the young tendrils that sprout out resemble natural supports in the garden. At first glance, Lac Tien vegetable resembles “ngon bi” (gourd tendrils), but its taste is distinctly different.
According to Dr. Nguyen Thi Lam, a nutrition expert at the National Institute of Nutrition (quoted from Suc Khoe & Doi Song newspaper), Lac Tien vegetable originates from the northern mountainous regions, where the climate is cool and the soil is fertile. It thrives in spring and summer when the weather is warm and humid. Some well-known localities for harvesting Lac Tien vegetable include Lang Son, Cao Bang, and Ha Giang.
The main season for Lac Tien vegetable lasts from March to August. This is the ideal time to enjoy this vegetable as it is at its crispest, sweetest, and most nutritious during this period.
Unique Flavor and Superior Nutritional Value
If you’ve ever tasted “ngon bi” (gourd tendrils), you’ll surely notice the similarity in crispness between the two vegetables. However, Lac Tien vegetable offers a completely different experience with its refreshing sweet taste that is not too strong yet highly addictive. When chewing, you’ll enjoy the crispy skin and the mild sweetness that spreads in your mouth.
Apart from its delicious taste, Lac Tien vegetable is packed with essential nutrients. According to a study published in the Journal of Medical Nutrition, Lac Tien vegetable is rich in vitamins A, C, and E, calcium, iron, and fiber. These components help boost immunity, aid digestion, and protect cardiovascular health.
The fiber in Lac Tien vegetable is especially beneficial for those looking to lose weight or improve their digestion. “Fiber helps maintain a feeling of fullness and stimulates intestinal peristalsis,” Dr. Nguyen Thi Lam added.
Delicious Dishes Made with Lac Tien Vegetable
Lac Tien vegetable can be prepared in numerous mouthwatering dishes, ranging from simple to elaborate. Here are some suggestions for you:
- Boiled Lac Tien vegetable with fish sauce dip: This is the most traditional and easiest dish to make. Simply boil the vegetable in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then dip it in a mixture of fish sauce, garlic, and chili peppers. This dish preserves the crispness and distinctive flavor of the vegetable.
- Stir-fried Lac Tien vegetable with garlic: Stir-frying the vegetable with fried garlic is a common method of preparation. For the best results, stir-fry quickly over high heat to retain the crispness and attractive green color.
- Lac Tien vegetable and pork ear salad: This salad combines fresh Lac Tien vegetable with thinly sliced pork ears, creating a harmonious blend of crispness, sweetness, and sour-spiciness. It’s a wonderful appetizer for family gatherings.
- Lac Tien vegetable and fish soup: The combination of Lac Tien vegetable and freshwater fish results in a refreshing soup that evokes the flavors of home.
To maintain its crispness and distinctive flavor, wash the vegetable with diluted salt water before cooking and avoid overcooking.
Economic and Cultural Value of Lac Tien Vegetable
Lac Tien vegetable is not just a rustic dish, but it also contributes to improving the economic well-being of many households in Northern Vietnam. Local people utilize their garden space to grow this vegetable, which they then sell in local markets or supply to high-end restaurants.
Culturally, Lac Tien vegetable is associated with warm family meals. Mountain dwellers often recount that during difficult times, Lac Tien vegetable was a valuable food source that helped them through hunger. To this day, it remains a symbol of unity and love for nature.
Tips for Choosing and Storing Lac Tien Vegetable
When purchasing Lac Tien vegetable, opt for bunches with fresh green leaves and tender stems, free from bruises or damage. If possible, buy directly from local markets or reputable supermarkets to ensure quality.
To extend the shelf life of the vegetable, wash it thoroughly, cut off the older parts, and let it air dry. Then, wrap the vegetable in paper towels or place it in a zip lock bag and store it in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer. This method will keep the vegetable fresh for 5-7 days.
Conclusion: Try It to Discover Its Uniqueness!
Lac Tien vegetable is not just an ordinary vegetable but a precious gift from nature. With its distinctive crisp and sweet taste, high nutritional value, and countless enticing preparations, Lac Tien vegetable deserves to be experienced at least once in a lifetime.
Visit the northern regions of Vietnam or look for Lac Tien vegetable in your local markets to try this unique delicacy! Who knows, you might discover a new joy in your journey of exploring Vietnamese cuisine!
