Bánh dây Dốc Lết is a unique delicacy in Khanh Hoa Province that has attracted many food enthusiasts and travelers alike. Why is this dish so captivating? Let’s find out!
1 What is Bánh Dây Dốc Lết?
Bánh dây Dốc Lết is a traditional dish made from a mixture of rice flour and tapioca starch in a 2:1 ratio. The batter is mixed to a thick consistency and then poured into a special cloth designed for this dish. The cloth is then twisted and the batter is skillfully pulled into thin strands, which are placed on bamboo trays. This unique process gives the dish its name, Bánh Dây, which translates to “string cake.” Once the batter is on the trays, they are taken for steaming. When cooked, the bánh dây has a translucent white appearance, somewhat similar to bánh cuốn or bánh bèo.
What is Bánh Dây Dốc Lết?
2 The Flavor of Bánh Dây Dốc Lết
When ordered, the bánh dây is carefully removed from the trays and arranged on a plate. The seller then coats it with a layer of scallion oil to give it a glossy, mouthwatering appearance and enhance its flavor. This dish is typically served with mẳn fish sauce (a dip made from tuna) and shredded green mango.
The perfect bite consists of picking up a strand of bánh dây, along with some shredded mango, and dipping it into the fish sauce. The combination of the chewy bánh dây, the tangy mango, and the savory fish sauce creates a harmonious and distinctive flavor profile that is hard to find in other dishes. For the best experience, let the bánh dây cool down a bit to appreciate its ideal chewy texture. Additionally, feel free to add more scallion oil or chili paste to excite your taste buds.
The Flavor of Bánh Dây Dốc Lết
3 Tasting this Specialty at Bánh Dây Sáu Phượng
Due to its intricate preparation, this unique dish is rarely found in restaurants or street food stalls. In fact, currently, the only place to enjoy it in Dốc Lết is at Sáu Phượng, a small eatery near Long Hoa Pagoda. This modest shop, which is usually open from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM, started without a signboard, but later, Ms. Phượng put up a simple one to make it easier for tourists to find. For just 10,000 VND, you can indulge in a delicious serving of bánh dây and even witness the fascinating preparation process.
Tasting Bánh Dây Dốc Lết at Sáu Phượng
4 Other Famous Specialties of Khanh Hoa
Bánh Tráng Xoài
Bánh tráng xoài, or mango rice paper, is another renowned delicacy of Khanh Hoa. Sweet and ripe mango puree is heated and spread into thin, flexible sheets, creating a unique snack with a distinctive aroma. If you’re looking for a delicious souvenir to take home to your loved ones, bánh tráng xoài is an excellent choice!
Bánh Tráng Xoài
Nem Nướng Ninh Hòa
Ninh Hòa grilled meatballs have gained fame among both food enthusiasts and travelers. A blend of minced lean pork, spices, and grilled to perfection over charcoal, these meatballs offer an unforgettable flavor. Enjoy them wrapped in rice paper with fresh herbs and dipped in a sweet and sour sauce for a truly memorable culinary experience.
Nem Nướng Ninh Hòa
Yến Sào Nha Trang
Yến sào, or edible bird’s nest soup, is a delicacy from Cam Ranh that is known for its nutritional benefits and delicious taste. This luxurious dish is suitable for most people, especially those who need nourishment, such as convalescents, women, and malnourished children. You can prepare it in various ways, including cháo yến (bird’s nest porridge), yến tiềm (bird’s nest soup with chicken), or yến nấu táo đỏ (bird’s nest soup with red dates). Be sure to purchase it from reputable sources to ensure quality.
Yến Sào Nha Trang
Chả Cá Nha Trang
Chả cá Nha Trang, or Nha Trang fish cakes, are already well-known for their delicious taste. Made from the freshest fish, these fish cakes are a treat whether fried or steamed, offering a sweet and fragrant flavor without any fishy taste.
Chả Cá Nha Trang
Bánh dây Dốc Lết is a unique delicacy in Khanh Hoa, and I hope this article has given you valuable insights into this fascinating dish and the other specialties the region has to offer!
