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Crimson jellyfish is commonly served with herbs, tofu, copra, and shrimp paste. Photograph by VnExpress/Nguyen Chi |
In Hanoi, the locals get pleasure from consuming meals that matches the seasons. Just like how the ninth and tenth lunar months mark the time for cha ruoi (ragworm omelet), the second lunar month (ending April 8) signifies the prevalence of crimson jellyfish.
Despite the fact that this dish didn’t initially come from Hanoi, cooks within the capital added native elements to it, making it a particular meals that displays the altering seasons.
In contrast to its origins from the close by Hai Phong Metropolis and Nam Dinh Province, the Hanoi model pairs the jellyfish with grilled tofu, copra slices, greens, and shrimp paste.
Perilla and marjoram leaves, giant sufficient to wrap across the jellyfish, add an additional taste.
Earlier than consuming, a squeeze of kumquat and a contact of chili is added to the shrimp paste for a taste increase. This dipping sauce enhances the crunchiness of jellyfish, harmonizing with the creaminess of tofu and copra, and the fragrant essence of perilla leaves.
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To get pleasure from, one can place a chunk of jellyfish on a perilla leaf together with different toppings. Photograph by VnExpress/Nguyen Chi |
The jellyfish itself has a darkish crimson or orange colour as a result of it’s soaked in a combination of roots and bark from bruguiera, a sort of mangrove. Then, kumquat slices are added to take away any disagreeable odor. These jellyfish are saved in giant containers, ready to be served to prospects.
Getting ready crimson jellyfish is a straightforward affair, primarily involving soaking it in water, with out boiling or cooking it. This methodology known as Hanoi-style sashimi by youthful individuals. When eaten, it goes properly with perilla leaves, just like how sashimi is loved in Japanese delicacies.
Opinions about crimson jellyfish range extensively. Some discover its style unappealing, evaluating it to a mix of a jelly-like meat with shrimp paste, and it may not be appropriate for these with delicate stomachs.
Nonetheless, for individuals who like it, they eagerly anticipate its availability after the Lunar New Yr. Lacking out on crimson jellyfish means a year-long look ahead to the following jellyfish season to savor the delicacy.
Crimson jellyfish distributors usually function with out formal institutions, solely obtainable for a number of weeks annually.
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A vendor promoting crimson jellyfish on Hoe Nhai Road in Ba Dinh District, Hanoi. Photograph by VnExpress/Nguyen Chi |
In Hanoi, discovering locations that serve this dish could be difficult. Aside from well-known areas like Grasp Chieu and Duong Thanh streets, a small store on Hoe Nhai Road has turn out to be extra well-liked in current occasions. The store serves ragworm omelet rolls on the 12 months’s finish and crimson jellyfish after Tet. Prospects usually get pleasure from their meals whereas seated on the sidewalk, immersing themselves within the ambiance of Hanoi.
Situated at 19 Hoe Nhai Road, the restaurant is staffed primarily by aged relations. The service is quick, guaranteeing prospects face minimal wait occasions.
Crimson jellyfish is ideal for a free afternoon snack, because it requires time to get pleasure from totally. A serving usually prices VND30,000-40,000 (US$1.20-1.60).
The right way to eat crimson jejjyfish, Hanoi type. Video by VnExpress/Nguyen Chi