The Panther Grouper, with its distinctive appearance, resembles a ray and has a characteristic glossy skin. This fish species is mainly found in the central coastal regions of Vietnam and is most abundant during the eighth and ninth lunar months, which is the peak season for fishermen to catch them. Coastal residents often use this fish to create a variety of dishes such as sour soup, stir-fry, or braised with lemongrass and chili. However, the most unique and mouthwatering dish is the Panther Grouper with Scallions and Fried Shallots.
Compared to other complex Phan Thiet specialties like seafood sauces, this dish has a simpler preparation method. However, to achieve the perfect flavor, attention to detail and precision in each step are crucial. The ideal weight for this fish is between one and two kilograms, ensuring tender meat, natural sweetness, and a crunchy cartilage layer.
Firstly, the fish is cleaned by rubbing its outer layer with lemongrass leaves to eliminate any unpleasant odor. The liver, an essential ingredient for adding richness to the dish, is carefully preserved. After the initial preparation, the fish can be sliced into thin pieces or steamed whole, depending on preference. Meanwhile, the fat is diced and fried to release its aromatic fragrance, then stir-fried with scallions. Once the fish is thoroughly steamed, the chef pours the hot scallion oil over it and sprinkles it with crushed roasted peanuts to enhance both the flavor and appearance.
The allure of this dish lies not only in its preparation but also in its unique way of consumption. Locals often suggest that tourists enjoy it with various fresh herbs like mint, green bananas, and sour star fruit, wrapped in rice vermicelli and rice paper. The wrapped delicacy is then dipped in a sweet and sour fish sauce or tamarind sauce, depending on individual preference. The combination of the fish’s rich flavor, the fragrance of scallions, the nuttiness of roasted peanuts, and the interplay of flavors from the herbs, fruits, and dipping sauce create an unforgettable culinary harmony.
Some connoisseurs like to add the reserved liver to the dipping sauce and blend it to a smooth consistency. This practice adds richness to the sauce without making it overly greasy. This culinary secret, passed down through local folk cuisine, sets the Panther Grouper with Scallions and Fried Shallots apart from other seafood rolls.
You can find this delectable dish in numerous eateries and restaurants in Phan Thiet, especially along Pham Van Dong Street, which is lined with seafood restaurants catering to tourists. The price of this dish is quite reasonable, typically costing around 200,000 VND for a plate of Panther Grouper with Scallions and Fried Shallots, enough for a few people to share. This affordable price allows visitors to indulge in the local specialty without breaking the bank.
Exploring the local cuisine is an essential part of the Phan Thiet travel experience. In addition to admiring the beautiful seaside scenery and engaging in recreational activities, discovering the region’s culinary delights is a must. Tasting a plate of Panther Grouper with Scallions and Fried Shallots offers a glimpse into the refined cooking techniques of the coastal residents. This simple dish, crafted from easily accessible ingredients, has become a culinary emblem unique to Phan Thiet.
In addition to this signature dish, visitors can indulge in a variety of other local specialties, such as grilled seafood, a range of shellfish sold along the beach, and distinctive street snacks. Together, these culinary delights paint a diverse and captivating picture of Phan Thiet’s gastronomic landscape, enriching the overall travel experience for visitors.
The Panther Grouper with Scallions and Fried Shallots is more than just a dish; it embodies the culinary culture of Phan Thiet’s coastal region. With its natural sweetness, harmonious flavors, and affordable price, it has become a top choice for many visitors to the area. A vibrant summer experience is elevated when you sit by the table, savoring a roll of fish with herbs, dipped in a tangy tamarind sauce, while listening to the soothing sound of the waves.
Phan Thiet boasts not only stunning beaches with blue waters, white sand, and golden sunshine but also a captivating repertoire of rustic cuisine. Among these delicacies, the Panther Grouper with Scallions and Fried Shallots stands out as a highlight, captivating the hearts of food enthusiasts. A visit to Phan Thiet promises an opportunity to immerse yourself in this culinary delight, leaving you with unforgettable memories of why this dish has captivated so many.
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