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What is the Delicacy That ‘Hunchback Cow’ Refers To in Phu Yen?

Introducing the renowned delicacy of Phu Yen, Vietnam - Bò Gù. This mouth-watering dish has earned its fame among locals and visitors alike, but what exactly is it? Let's delve into the delicious world of Bò Gù and uncover the secrets behind this culinary masterpiece.

Administrator

11 August, 2024

Humpback cattle, but not humpback whales! This intriguing delicacy, known as “Bò gù” in Vietnamese, is a specialty of Phu Yen province. Read on to discover the fascinating world of this unique dish and its mouth-watering delights.

1What is Humpback Cattle and Why is it a Specialty of Phu Yen?

Phu Yen, a coastal province in Vietnam, is renowned for its ocean tuna fishing industry. Locally known as “Cá Bò Gù,” this large fish belongs to the silver-sided family and thrives in warm waters far off the shore, typically beyond 185 km. With various species like bluefin and yellowfin tuna, Phu Yen’s ocean tuna is a prized catch.

Ocean tuna is highly valued for its nutritional content and health benefits. It offers a rich source of nutrients and can be prepared in countless delicious ways, utilizing various parts of the fish.

2Delicious Dishes Made from Humpback Cattle

Tuna Stomach Salad

Tuna stomach, or “bao tử cá,” might seem like an unusual ingredient, but it makes for a delightful dish. This salad combines the crunchy texture of the stomach with the tangy flavor of raw mango and a hint of pungency, creating a perfect blend of tastes and textures that tantalize the palate without any fishy aftertaste.

Grilled Tuna Belly

Tuna belly is a prized cut of meat, and when grilled, it becomes a mouth-watering delicacy. Marinated with green chili and grilled over hot coals, the belly meat takes on a sweet aroma while retaining a hint of chili spice. Served with lime leaves, this dish is a true taste sensation.

Tuna Porridge

Tuna porridge is a hearty and nourishing meal, perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The porridge has a distinct briny flavor, enhanced by the creamy texture of the tuna, the fragrance of onions, and a hint of chili spice. It’s a comforting and satisfying dish.

3How to Prepare Humpback Cattle Dishes: “Ocean Tuna Eye”

Raw Tuna with Mustard

One of the most popular ways to enjoy humpback cattle is to eat it raw, as sashimi or with mustard. This style of consumption is favored in many countries with a culture of consuming raw fish, such as Japan.

Braised Tuna Eye with Chinese Herbs

Another intriguing dish is the “Đèn pha đại dương,” or braised tuna eye with Chinese herbs. Tuna eyes are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, known for their brain-boosting properties, and are considered a delicacy in many cultures.

Grilled Tuna

For those who prefer their tuna cooked, grilled tuna is a delicious option. The best part of the fish for grilling is the belly, which can be marinated in soy sauce and grilled to perfection.

Steamed Tuna with Fish Roe

For a nutritious treat, try steamed tuna with fish roe, served with ginger sauce. This dish is a delicious way to enjoy the health benefits of ocean tuna.

Snacking on Tuna

If you’re craving a snack or looking for the perfect beer companion, try dried tuna lips grilled and served with chili sauce. This tasty treat is sure to satisfy your cravings!

4How Much Does Ocean Tuna Cost?

The price of ocean tuna varies depending on the time of year and the size of the fish. On average:

Whole ocean tuna costs around 115,000 VND/kg.
Ocean tuna fillets range from 190,000 to 250,000 VND/kg.

Bluefin tuna is particularly notable for its size, with an average weight of up to 150 kg per fish. This species is also distinguished by its distinctive blue fins and is considered a delicacy due to its limited supply and high price.

Now you know more about “Bò gù” or ocean tuna, a specialty of Phu Yen. With its unique name and versatile culinary applications, it’s no wonder that this delicacy is a must-try for any visitor to the region. Don’t miss out on the chance to indulge in the deliciousness of “Bò gù” on your next trip to Phu Yen!

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Frequently asked questions

The delicacy referred to is ‘Bò gù’. It is a unique dish made from the meat of a specific breed of cow found in the Phu Yen province, known for its distinctive hunchback appearance.

The ‘Hunchback Cows’ are considered a delicacy due to their rare breed and the resulting tender and flavorful meat. The cows graze freely on the lush grasses of the Phu Yen mountains, imparting a unique taste to the meat. The dish is also prepared with a special cooking technique that enhances the flavor and texture.

‘Bò gù’ can be prepared in a variety of ways, but one of the most popular methods is slow-cooking the meat in a clay pot with a mixture of spices and herbs. The dish is often served with rice and a side of fresh herbs and vegetables, such as basil, lettuce, and cucumbers.

You can find ‘Bò gù’ at many local restaurants and street food stalls in Phu Yen. It is considered a specialty of the region, so it should be easy to find. Some popular spots include local markets, such as Dong Tac Market, and restaurants known for their Phu Yen cuisine.

The ‘Hunchback Cow’ holds cultural significance in Phu Yen and is intertwined with local legends and folklore. One story tells of a magical cow that appeared to help a local farmer, and as a token of gratitude, the cow was allowed to roam freely, resulting in its distinctive hunchback appearance.