The Ultimate Delicacy: A Taste of Quang Tri’s ‘Black Gold’

11 September, 2024

The King Oyster, also known as the Sawtooth or Ghost Oyster, has the scientific name Hyotissa hyotis (Linnaeus, 1758). This bivalve mollusk, belonging to the group of shellfish, is distinguished by its large size and nutrient-rich meat. King Oysters boast a high protein content, ranging from 67.8% to 89.6%.

According to Mr. Phan Hoai An from the Investment, Trade, and Tourism Promotion Center of Quang Tri Province, the King Oyster is not only a delicacy but also a signature product of Con Co Island. While they can be found in other areas such as the coral reefs in Vinh Thai commune, Vinh Linh district (about 2 nautical miles from the shore), the King Oysters from Con Co Island are considered more abundant and tastier.

King Oyster, also known as the Sawtooth or Ghost Oyster, with the scientific name Hyotissa hyotis

Local fishermen shared that the harvesting season for King Oysters on Con Co Island spans from March to September annually. The main harvesting area falls within the service-administrative subdivision of the Con Co Island Marine Protected Area.

During this season, fishermen frequently venture out to sea and dive to depths of several dozen meters to catch oysters. They typically use their hands or tools such as small hammers, crowbars, and diving knives for this task. The oyster harvesting process here is responsibly managed to maintain the balance of the marine ecosystem and protect this valuable delicacy from the threat of extinction.

The oyster harvesting process is carefully managed to ensure sustainability

When compared to regular oysters, the King Oysters from Con Co Island stand out for their significantly larger size, sometimes as big as an adult’s palm. Each King Oyster weighs between 1.2 to 1.5 kg on average, with some specimens reaching an impressive 3 kg. The meat of these oysters is firm and sweet, lending itself to a variety of delicious dishes.

Among the most popular and easy-to-prepare dishes are oyster salad, oyster congee, and grilled oysters with scallions. To cater to diverse palates, the locals of Con Co Island have also invented creative dishes such as oysters grilled with cheese sauce, Thai-style oysters, and “oyster né” (a Vietnamese dish similar to an omelet), offering a richer and more unique culinary experience.

Locals have created a variety of dishes to cater to different tastes

The King Oyster is not just a culinary delight but also offers significant nutritional value. This seafood is rich in beneficial nutrients such as vitamin E, antioxidants, and zinc.

These components play a crucial role in boosting testosterone production, thereby supporting and improving male sexual function. The King Oyster is indeed an excellent choice for those seeking to enhance their health and indulge in a unique flavor experience.

Frequently asked questions

The province is renowned for its unique and delicious specialty, known as ‘black gold’. This delicacy is actually a type of noodle made from the ink of cuttlefish, giving it a distinct black color and a rich, briny flavor.

The main ingredient is, of course, cuttlefish ink, which is carefully extracted and mixed with rice flour to create the dough for the noodles. Local artisans skillfully knead and roll the dough, ensuring an even distribution of the ink, resulting in noodles with a beautiful black sheen.

The process of making these noodles is labor-intensive and time-consuming, requiring expertise and attention to detail. The cuttlefish ink itself is a precious commodity, as it is derived from a limited resource and requires careful handling to ensure freshness and quality. As such, the dish commands a higher price and is often considered a luxurious treat, reserved for special occasions.

Indeed, the black noodles hold cultural significance in Quang Tri province. They are often served during important festivals and celebrations, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune. Locals believe that the unique flavor and color of the noodles bring a sense of unity and community spirit, making them an integral part of the region’s culinary heritage.

Quang Tri province itself is the best place to indulge in this gourmet experience. Local restaurants and eateries offer a variety of dishes featuring these black noodles, allowing visitors to taste the authentic flavor. Some popular options include noodle soups, stir-fries, and even creative fusion dishes that showcase the versatility of this unique ingredient.