Food & Receipts

The Arm-Long Fruit: From Wild to Wonderful

Núc nác is a wild forest fruit that grows in the mountainous provinces of Northwest Vietnam. This humble fruit holds a wealth of traditional uses, serving as both a medicinal herb and a culinary delight for the local communities. With a unique blend of cultural significance and health benefits, nuc nác has become an integral part of the region's heritage, offering a taste of nature's bounty and a glimpse into the traditional way of life.

Administrator

13 July, 2024

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The nuc nac fruit is unique in its flat and curved shape, typically growing to lengths of 40-80cm. It is in season from July to September, coinciding with the rainy season in the Northwest region. During this time, locals venture into the forests to gather the fruit and create a variety of delicious, rustic dishes.

Nuc nac offers a range of culinary possibilities. It can be boiled and dipped, or thinly sliced and stir-fried with water buffalo or beef for a flavorful dish. One of the most distinctive dishes is the nuc nac salad (also known as nuc nac slaw). There are several ways to prepare this salad. Some people grill the nuc nac first, while others boil and slice it, mixing it with a variety of seasonings such as MSG, fish sauce, salt, garlic, and chili. The most popular method is to grill the nuc nac and then mix it with herbs to create a refreshing salad.

Preparing a nuc nac salad is quite simple. The main ingredients include: nuc nac fruit, grilled and minced fish or pork, herbs (chopped Vietnamese coriander and perilla), roasted and crushed peanuts, and lime. First, select young nuc nac fruits that are not too ripe; one or two fruits are usually enough for a generous serving. Grill the nuc nac over a wood fire, ensuring even cooking on both sides. When the outer skin starts to peel and the fruit feels soft, it’s ready. Remove the outer skin, and slice the nuc nac into thin strips. In a bowl, mix the nuc nac strips with peanuts and a dressing made from lime juice, salt, and MSG. Finally, add the herbs, giving the salad a delightful aroma and unique flavor. Serve it on a plate and enjoy the fruits of your labor!

The nuc nac salad is often accompanied by shrimp paste, creating a distinctive blend of bitter, sweet, and savory flavors. For first-time tasters, the combination of flavors may be unusual, but it leaves a lasting impression that keeps people coming back for more.

Frequently asked questions

The arm-long fruit, also known as the snake fruit or salak, is a tropical fruit native to Java and Sumatra in Indonesia. It gets its name from its unique appearance, as it resembles a snake’s skin with its brown, scaly exterior.

The taste of the arm-long fruit is a combination of sweet and tangy, with a hint of acid. Its texture is crunchy and granular, similar to that of an apple, but with a softer center.

This fruit is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and can help lower cholesterol levels. It also contains vitamins C and B, as well as minerals like potassium, phosphorus, and iron.

It is typically peeled and eaten fresh as a snack. It can also be used in cooking, adding a unique flavor to dishes. The fruit is often used in Indonesian cuisine, where it is made into compotes, jams, and even wine.

In Indonesian culture, the arm-long fruit is believed to have medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine. It is said to help with digestive issues, improve blood circulation, and even enhance skin health.