The culinary paradise of delicious Vietnamese dishes has never ceased to captivate international tourists in recent years. Delicious dishes, presented with simplicity, leave a familiar and affectionate taste that embodies the essence of Vietnamese cuisine. However, dare you try the dishes that often evoke "fear" in many tourists when they encounter the exotic delicacies of the Vietnamese people?
1.The culinary culture of Vietnamese cuisine boasts some peculiar dishes
While there have been tourists who were apprehensive of the smell of Natto in Japan, or the fermented stingrays, live octopus, fermented crabs, and raw eggs in Korea, Vietnamese cuisine also offers dishes that could be categorized as "terrifying" among the culinary traditions of our S-shaped country.
The diverse flavors of Vietnamese cuisine create a rich tapestry of taste that can evoke a myriad of reactions from visitors, ranging from laughter to tears. This diversity adds depth to the spectrum of flavors and culinary experiences in Vietnamese cuisine.
2. Top 10 bizarre dishes that terrify tourists in Vietnamese cuisine
2.1. Balut (Fertilized Duck Egg)
Despite being a favorite dish in the Central region of Vietnam due to its rich, savory flavor infused with layers of seasoning such as salt, pepper, or ginger fish sauce, when paired with pickled vegetables, balut is an explosion of taste. However, this nutritious dish cherished by the people of Central Vietnam has left many tourists terrified upon trying it. According to the accounts of some tourists who have glimpsed and tasted this dish, balut can be quite pungent, leading many to rank it among the "scariest" Vietnamese dishes.
Fertilized Duck Egg - Source: Internet
2.2. Fermented Shrimp Paste with Vermicelli and Tofu
Despite being a national dish enjoyed by people from the North, Central, and South regions of Vietnam, Bun dau mam tom (fermented shrimp paste with vermicelli and tofu) has become a source of fear for many foreign tourists, haunting their taste buds as they explore Vietnamese cuisine.
The pungent smell of fermented shrimp paste often renders many tourists unable to bear the thought of trying this dish. Some even find the taste of the shrimp paste in Bun dau mam tom so "terrifying" that merely catching a whiff from a distance is enough to make them feel dizzy.
2.3. Pig Intestine Congee
Continuing the trend of beloved dishes among Central Vietnamese, Pig Intestine Congee is a familiar breakfast option in areas such as Da Nang, Quang Nam, Quang Ngai, and Hue. Offering a crunchy texture and a natural aroma deep within, this dish's flavor profile is precisely what terrifies foreign tourists.
Pig Intestine Congee - Source: Internet
Many tourists express fear upon seeing the inclusion of pig intestines and offal in their bowl of congee. Consequently, this dish often becomes a dreaded culinary experience for those traveling to sample Vietnamese cuisine.
2.4. Blood Pudding
Although renowned as a popular drinking snack in the Central region, Blood Pudding in Vietnam is often a source of fear for many tourists.Primarily made from coagulated blood and seasoned to taste, many tourists feel hesitant upon seeing Blood Pudding due to its ingredients. However, it can be affirmed that with the right approach, tourists can fully enjoy the delicious taste of this Vietnamese dish.
2.5. Herbal Eggs
Not only do international tourists hesitate at the taste of Herbal Eggs, but some Vietnamese people themselves find it challenging to stomach this dish. Herbal Eggs have a strong medicinal aroma, with a soft outer shell that appears dark in color. Typically cooked in crab soup, the predominant flavor of Herbal Eggs can be overwhelming, leaving an aftertaste reminiscent of traditional Chinese medicine. This characteristic often becomes a source of aversion for many individuals.
Herbal eggs in Vietnamese cuisine - Source: Internet
2.6. Horse Penis
Considered a delicacy in highland regions, Horse Penis is not an easily palatable dish in Vietnam. Even many Vietnamese individuals struggle with its flavor, yet some international tourists appreciate the unique taste of this dish. Made from a special part of the horse, this dish is often prepared by highland residents during the winter to provide warmth to the body, while also serving as a cultural representation of highland cuisine.
Vietnamese cuisine has various foods and experiences in relation to the bizarre food sure to make you unforgettable when traveling to Vietnam.
