Ninh Binh is not only known for its stunning natural landscapes such as Tam Coc Bich Dong, Trang An Bai Dinh, and the historic Hoa Lu ancient capital, but also for its diverse and rich cuisine that captivates visitors.
Ninh Binh’s specialties are a blend of the region’s natural flavors and cultural heritage. When visiting Ninh Binh, tasting these unique dishes is a must for any traveler to fully experience the charm of this beautiful land. Join Ninh Binh Travel as we explore the top 5 must-try specialties in Ninh Binh!
Ninh Binh Burned Rice (Cơm Cháy Ninh Bình)
The first dish every visitor should try when coming to Ninh Binh is its famous Burned Rice, known as “Cơm Cháy.” This crispy, golden delicacy is made from pure rice, cooked to perfection until the bottom layer becomes golden and crispy. The unique flavor of Ninh Binh Burned Rice can be enjoyed with shredded pork or served with a savory sauce made from ingredients like beef, kidney, liver, tomatoes, onions, shiitake mushrooms, and carrots. The combination of the crispy texture and rich sauce makes this dish irresistible to all ages.
Burned Rice is easy to find throughout Ninh Binh, available in city centers and popular tourist spots such as Bai Dinh, Trang An, and Tam Coc. It is also widely sold along highways, making it a great souvenir for travelers to take home. With its distinctive flavor and easy accessibility, Ninh Binh Burned Rice is a must-try for anyone visiting the region.
Hoa Lu Goat Meat (Tái Dê Hoa Lư)
Ninh Binh is renowned for its goat meat dishes, a unique culinary brand of the Hoa Lu region. The local goats are naturally raised on limestone mountains, resulting in tender and nutritious meat. Among the various goat dishes, “Tái Dê” (rare goat meat) is the most popular. The preparation requires precision, from marinating the meat to seasoning, ensuring a flavorful experience.
The dish is typically enjoyed by wrapping the tender goat slices with fig leaves and rice paper, and dipping it into ginger soy sauce. The tangy flavor of the leaves, the sweetness of the meat, and the richness of the dipping sauce
create an unforgettable taste. Not only is this dish delicious, but it is also highly nutritious and considered a local delicacy for promoting health.
Yen Mac Fermented Pork (Nem Chua Yên Mạc)
Yen Mac, Ninh Binh, is famous for its traditional fermented pork rolls, a dish deeply rooted in the local culinary culture. Despite its simple ingredients, including lean pork, boiled pork skin, and roasted rice powder, the skillful hands of local artisans turn it into a flavorful delight.
The rolls are delicately wrapped in guava leaves, which give the nem its distinct aroma, and then further wrapped in banana leaves for an attractive presentation. The sweet, sour, and slightly spicy flavors of Yen Mac Fermented Pork, paired with guava or fig leaves and dipping sauce, make for a perfect balance of taste and texture. This dish symbolizes the rustic yet heartfelt hospitality of the Yen Mac people.
Ninh Binh Eel Vermicelli Soup (Miến Lươn Ninh Bình)
Ninh Binh’s Eel Vermicelli Soup may not be as famous as goat meat or burned rice, but it’s certainly worth a try. The key to this dish is using small, tender eels that are fried to a crisp. What sets this dish apart is the addition of banana flowers, which give the broth a unique, mildly sweet flavor. The combination of tender vermicelli, crispy eel, and the fragrant broth creates a comforting, hearty meal.
This local favorite can be found in many
eateries around Ninh Binh, and its distinctive flavor offers a s
imple yet memorable taste of the region’s
culinary traditions.
Nho Quan Rice Wine (Rượu Cần Nho Quan)
Nho Quan Rice Wine is a traditional specialty of the Mườn
g ethnic people in Ninh Binh. Unlike most other wines, Nho Quan Rice Wine is not distilled by heat but fermented using a special mixture of glutinous rice and yeast. It is stored in large clay jars for over three months to develop its distinct flavor.
The communal act of drinking this wine using bamboo straws from the same jar makes it a symbol of unity and togetherness. Its sweet, mellow taste combined with the warm, friendly atmosphere makes Nho Quan Rice Wine a perfect companion for social gatherings.
When visiting Ninh Binh, be sure not to miss these delightful local specialties that offer a true taste of the region. If you are planning a trip, let Ninh Binh Travel Limousine handle your transportation for a comfortable and safe journey. Contact us today to learn more about our services and experience the best of Ninh Binh in style.
