How to Make Deep-Fried Rock Moss – An Overview of the Specialty Dish from the Northwest Coast

When visiting the Northwest, one cannot help but be captivated by the unique specialties this region has to offer. It boasts a wide array of unforgettable flavors prepared with utmost skill. Among these delicacies, the rock moss stands out as a renowned specialty of the Thai people.

First What is rock moss? How is it prepared?

Features of rock moss

Rock moss is a delicacy primarily found in the Northwest, especially among the Thai people. It is often used to impress esteemed guests or enjoyed during holidays and Tet, a traditional Vietnamese celebration.

Rock moss thrives exclusively in clean, unpolluted water sources and is typically harvested during the winter and early spring months.

Rock moss is one of the specialties of the Northwest region

Rock moss predominantly thrives on the rock ledges of stream beds. It can be classified into three distinct groups: cui, spicy, and tau. Specifically:

• Cui: Hair-like moss with a dark color.
• Spicy: Moss that grows sporadically, exhibiting a natural green color.
• Tau: Chunky moss often found in ponds or streams.

Features of rock moss

How to prepare rock moss

Rock moss is often harvested by carefully manually extracting it, much like catching fish or stream crabs. First, the moss is collected in long strands, and its color depends on the depth of the stream. Then, it is soaked in spring water to rid it of sand and dirt.

Next, the moss is placed on a flat rock or raft and pounded with a large log. Proper preparation of rock moss involves several essential steps, such as thorough washing and beating. Once the preliminary processing is complete, the moss can be used to create various delectable dishes to serve to guests.

It is essential to let the rock moss sit for 2-3 days before further processing. Common Thai dishes prepared with rock moss include boiling, salads, stir-frying, grilling, and deep-frying.

How to prepare rock moss

2 How to make crispy fried rock moss

Processing
10 Minutes
Preparation
30 Minutes
Serves
2 – 3 people

Ingredients for crispy fried rock moss

• Rock moss
• 2 eggs
• Water
• Finely chopped scallions
• Spices

Ingredients for crispy fried rock moss

How to make crispy fried rock moss

Step 1 Preliminary processing of rock moss

After collecting the rock moss, squeeze out excess water. Then, soak the moss in clean water and wash it thoroughly to remove any remaining sand.

Once washed, place the moss on a flat surface and pound it several times to further prepare it.

Preliminary processing of rock moss

Step 2 Mixing the ingredients

Place the moss in a cup and add flour. Crack the eggs into a separate bowl, add filtered water and chopped scallions, and mix well.

Mixing the ingredients

Step 3 Frying the rock moss

Add cooking oil to one-third of the pan and allow it to heat. Then, add the moss to the pan and fry until it turns a golden brown color and is evenly cooked. Remove the cooked moss from the pan and place it on a plate.

Frying the rock moss

Step 4 Final product

The crispy fried rock moss should have an attractive golden brown color. This dish is usually served by Thai people when hosting guests at their homes.

Final product

Enjoy

Crispy fried rock moss is a renowned specialty of the Northwest mountainous region. As moss becomes increasingly scarce, it is now only available on special occasions. Typically, Thai people serve rock moss alongside kitchen meat. If you have the opportunity, do not miss the chance to enjoy this unique delicacy.

Deep fried rock moss

Above is information about rock moss, including the recipe for making crispy fried rock moss. Rock moss is a renowned specialty among the Thai people, particularly in the Northwest region. We hope this article has been helpful to you!