At MYCT Viet Nam Travel, we believe a truly immersive journey goes beyond breathtaking landscapes; it delves deep into the heart of a culture, and nothing captures that essence quite like its food. We are thrilled to share exciting news that shines a spotlight on Vietnam’s vibrant culinary scene: Mực một nắng (sun-dried squid) from Phan Thiet has been recognized as one of the top 10 best squid dishes in the world by Taste Atlas, a renowned global food guide. This prestigious accolade reaffirms Vietnam’s position as a must-visit destination for food lovers, and we’re incredibly proud to offer experiences that let our international guests, families, friends, corporate groups, honeymooners, and young explorers savor these authentic flavors.
Imagine a dish born from the sun-kissed shores of Phan Thiet, a coastal city famous for its fresh seafood. Mực một nắng translates literally to “squid dried once in the sun,” and this simple yet profound name encapsulates its artisanal creation. Large, freshly caught squid are meticulously cleaned and then left to bask under the intense tropical sun for a single day. This crucial step partially dehydrates the squid, concentrating its natural sweetness and creating a unique texture that is both tender and slightly chewy – a perfect harmony of chewiness and succulence.
The magic truly happens when this sun-kissed delicacy meets a fiery charcoal grill. Grilling mực một nắng requires a delicate touch and experienced hand. Too high a heat, and the squid will toughen on the outside while remaining undercooked within. The skilled grill master carefully adjusts the temperature, allowing the squid to slowly transform, developing a beautiful golden hue and releasing an intoxicating aroma that wafts through the air, beckoning eager diners.
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Once perfectly grilled, the squid is sliced into bite-sized pieces, revealing its juicy interior. It’s traditionally served with a dipping sauce – often a spicy chili fish sauce or a tangy chili paste – that perfectly complements the squid’s natural flavors. And as Taste Atlas aptly suggests, “Don’t forget to accompany it with a cold glass of beer!” This simple pairing elevates the experience, making mực một nắng a quintessential Vietnamese culinary delight. For our guests exploring the sun-drenched beaches and vibrant culture of Southern Vietnam, particularly those venturing to Mui Ne, indulging in this local specialty is an absolute must. We craft our tours to include such authentic experiences, allowing you to not only see Vietnam but also taste it.
While mực một nắng has earned its well-deserved place in the global culinary spotlight, it represents just a fraction of the diverse and delectable food landscape that awaits you in Vietnam. At MYCT Viet Nam Travel, we pride ourselves on curating tours that offer a comprehensive exploration of Vietnam’s regional specialties, catering to all palates and preferences.
Northern Vietnam, with its ancient capital of Hanoi, offers a culinary journey steeped in tradition. Imagine savoring a steaming bowl of Phở (beef noodle soup) on a crisp Hanoi morning, the rich broth a symphony of flavors. Or perhaps discovering the delicate artistry of Bún chả (grilled pork with vermicelli), a dish so beloved it captivated a former US president. In Ha Long Bay, beyond the emerald waters and limestone karsts, fresh seafood reigns supreme, offering an abundance of grilled prawns, steamed crabs, and, of course, the freshest squid. Sapa, nestled amidst terraced rice fields, offers unique ethnic minority dishes and warming hotpots perfect for a cool mountain evening. Ninh Binh, often called “Ha Long Bay on land,” boasts local goat dishes and delicious rice paper. Even Mộc Châu, famous for its tea plantations, offers fresh produce and dairy products that contribute to its unique local cuisine. And for the adventurous, Hà Giang’s rugged beauty is complemented by hearty, rustic dishes that reflect its mountainous terrain. Our Northern Vietnam tours, perfect for families, groups of friends, and even corporate retreats, are designed to immerse you in these authentic culinary traditions.
Journeying to Central Vietnam, you’ll encounter a culinary heritage deeply influenced by the imperial city of Huế. Here, the food is known for its refinement and balance. Bún bò Huế (Hue style beef noodle soup) offers a spicy and aromatic kick, a stark contrast to its Northern counterpart. In Da Nang, fresh seafood is once again a highlight, but you’ll also find a more modern culinary scene. A trip to Bà Nà Hills, while offering stunning views and a fantastical amusement park, also provides opportunities to sample local specialties at its various restaurants. Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a food lover’s paradise. Its ancient streets are alive with the aromas of Cao lầu (Hoi An noodle dish), Mì Quảng (Quang style noodles), and the renowned Bánh mì (Vietnamese baguette sandwich). We often include cooking classes in our Hoi An itineraries, allowing our guests, including couples on their pre-wedding trips with parents, to learn the secrets of these beloved dishes and take a piece of Vietnam’s culinary artistry home with them.
And finally, Southern Vietnam, vibrant and dynamic, presents a culinary landscape bursting with flavor. Ho Chi Minh City, a bustling metropolis, is a melting pot of culinary influences, from street food stalls offering crispy Bánh xèo (sizzling pancakes) to upscale restaurants serving international cuisine. Exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels offers a historical insight, and afterward, you can refuel with local delights. Mui Ne, as mentioned, is a seafood haven, while the Mekong Delta offers a taste of rural life with its fresh fruits, river fish, and sticky rice dishes. Đà Lạt, with its cool climate, is famous for its fresh produce, artichoke soup, and unique street food like grilled rice paper. Our Southern Vietnam itineraries cater to all types of travelers, from family groups exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta to corporate teams seeking team-building culinary experiences, and even “Kids Tours” designed to introduce younger palates to the wonders of Vietnamese cuisine in an engaging way.
The recognition of mực một nắng by Taste Atlas further solidifies Vietnam’s standing on the global culinary map. For those unfamiliar, Taste Atlas is a Croatian-based gastronomic website established in 2015. It serves as a comprehensive global food map, documenting traditional dishes, local ingredients, and top restaurants worldwide. With information on approximately 10,000 dishes and over 9,000 restaurants, it’s a treasure trove for food enthusiasts. Their rankings, like the one for the “Best Squid Dishes in the World,” are compiled based on reader reviews from around the globe, validated by a robust system to ensure authenticity. This democratic approach to culinary recognition makes the inclusion of mực một nắng even more significant, as it reflects the genuine appreciation of food lovers worldwide. The “Best Squid Dishes in the World” list, as of May 15th, garnered 1,006 ratings, with 745 valid submissions, highlighting the extensive reach and influence of this platform.
The top spot on the list went to Kalamar Tava, a traditional Turkish dish. This preparation involves cleaning and slicing squid into thick rings, soaking them in milk, then dipping them in a mixture of flour, baking powder, and salt before deep-frying until crispy. Often seasoned with herbal or chili powder, these crispy squid rings are typically served with a sauce and lemon wedges, making them a popular appetizer. While Kalamar Tava sounds undoubtedly delicious, the unique appeal of Vietnam’s mực một nắng lies in its simplicity, its reliance on fresh ingredients, and the skillful technique of sun-drying and grilling that brings out its inherent flavors.
As a premier travel agency dedicated to showcasing the very best of Vietnam, MYCT Viet Nam Travel is perfectly positioned to guide you through this incredible culinary landscape. We understand that our target audience – international visitors, families, groups of friends, corporate teams, and even couples planning their pre-wedding trips with their parents or young children on “Kids Tours” – seeks authentic and memorable experiences. Our itineraries are meticulously crafted to not only visit iconic landmarks but also to immerse you in the local culture through its food.
We offer a range of customizable tours that can be tailored to your specific interests and dietary needs. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie seeking out hidden gems or a casual diner looking to sample local favorites, we have an option for you. Our expert local guides are passionate about their country’s cuisine and are eager to share their knowledge, taking you to the best local eateries, bustling markets, and even arranging cooking classes where you can learn to prepare these delightful dishes yourself.
We prioritize comfort, safety, and authenticity in all our tours. From luxurious accommodations to comfortable transportation and experienced guides, every detail is handled with care. Our commitment to excellence ensures that your culinary journey through Vietnam will be as seamless as it is delicious. We strive to provide unparalleled service, ensuring that every guest leaves with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for Vietnam’s rich cultural and gastronomic heritage. We are not a leading travel agency Singapore, but we are proud to be your trusted partner for an unforgettable Vietnamese adventure.
In conclusion, the recognition of mực một nắng is a testament to Vietnam’s growing stature as a culinary powerhouse. At MYCT Viet Nam Travel, we invite you to embark on a journey that will awaken your senses, tantalize your taste buds, and leave you with a profound appreciation for the diverse and vibrant flavors of Vietnam. Come and discover why Vietnam is not just a destination, but a culinary adventure waiting to be explored.
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