Hidden within Ha Nam province is a unique delicacy – Dai Hoang banana (mit banana). These bananas don’t ripen on the tree but require a special vinegar-based process to reach their full potential.
The ripened bananas emit a captivating aroma. They are small, with a slender stem and plump body. The peel is a glossy yellow, easy to peel, revealing soft and delicious flesh. These petite bananas were once a royal delicacy, a privilege not afforded to everyone.
Vu Dai Fish
Vu Dai Fish, also known as Nhan Hau Fish, Dai Hoang Fish, or Ha Nam Fish, is a renowned delicacy in Ha Nam that has gained popularity across Vietnam and beyond.
The key to a quality pot of Vu Dai Fish lies in the ingredients: large black carp, pork belly, and a blend of rustic spices. The fish is slow-cooked over a low flame for 13 to 14 hours, resulting in a rich, brown broth that is neither greasy nor fishy. The meat is tender, and the bones are soft, making it a delight to eat. A pot typically costs between 500,000 and 1,500,000 VND and can be purchased in Nhan Hau village, Hoa Hau commune, Ly Nhan district, Ha Nam province.
Binh Luc Fermented Crab
Ha Nam is not only famous for its rice but also for a unique fermented specialty with a pungent, spicy, and fragrant flavor – Binh Luc fermented crab. This delicacy is made from fresh, high-quality crabs found in the brackish waters of Thanh Liêm, Bình Lục, and Kim Bảng in Ha Nam province, with the latter being particularly renowned for its fermented crab industry.
The crabs are cleaned, crushed in stone mortars, and mixed with spices. The mixture is then tightly packed into jars and sun-dried for a day before being buried underground. The resulting fermented crab has an eye-catching color and a unique flavor profile that blends the saltiness of the brine, the richness of ginger, and the warmth of ginger. It has become a beloved souvenir for tourists visiting Ha Nam.
Kien Khe Rice Crackers
Kien Khe Rice Crackers are a popular choice for souvenirs among tourists visiting Ha Nam. These crackers have a distinct aroma, a crispy texture, and a rich, buttery taste. They are one of the most well-known specialties of Ha Nam.
The secret to their unique flavor lies in the high-quality ingredients and intricate preparation process, which includes soaking the rice, grinding it into flour, making the dough, baking, and sun-drying. Each golden cracker is enhanced with peanuts, sesame seeds, and shredded coconut, creating a delightful and savory taste that embodies the culinary soul of Ha Nam.
Ly Nhan Mandarin Oranges
Ly Nhan Mandarin Oranges are another popular specialty of Ha Nam. These oranges are characterized by their flat shape, thin peel, and naturally sweet and crisp flesh. Ly Nhan is a region enriched by the alluvial soil of the Red River, resulting in fertile land. In addition to oranges, the area also produces other specialties such as cam, hong, fish, and shrimp.
In the past, Ly Nhan Mandarin Oranges were reserved for royalty. The harvest season typically falls between September and October of the lunar calendar. You can purchase these oranges in Ly Nhan village or at roadside fruit stalls for approximately 40,000 to 60,000 VND per kilogram.
The King’s Banana: A Tasty Treat Fit for Royalty
The humble chuoi ngu is a delicious Vietnamese specialty that remains relatively unknown to many. With its unique flavor and texture, this exotic fruit offers a tantalizing taste experience that is worth discovering. For those who have yet to indulge in its delights, it’s time to explore and uncover the secrets of this wondrous fruit.
