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Chicken

Ga Kho Gung: Braised Ginger Chicken

September 26, 2024 No Comments

Ga Kho Gung: Ginger Braised Chicken, a Vietnamese dish made by braising chicken with fresh ginger in a savory caramelized sauce

Ingredients: 

2 lbs chicken wings

Marinade:

1 tablespoon chicken bouillon 1 tablespoon fish sauce 1 tablespoon sugar 4 garlic cloves (minced)
Black pepper
Ginger (julienne)
1 small shallot (minced)

Nước Màu/Caramel: 

2 tablespoon oil
3 tablespoon sugar

Sauce:

2 inch knob ginger (julienne) 1 cup coco rico
Fish sauce, sugar, pepper for taste

Garnishes:

Green onion thai chilis
Black pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the aromatics
2. Marinate chicken wings and refrigerate for 30 minutes or overnight for best results.
3. Add oil and sugar to a large pan on medium high heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sugar from burning. Once it turns an amber color add the chicken immediately along with the marinade and coat chicken with the caramel sauce.
4. Brown chicken on both sides. Add Coco Rico and simmer with lid on for 15-20 minutes. Remove lid.
5. Adjust to your liking with fish sauce and sugar.
6. Garnish with green onions and top with black pepper & thai chilis.
7. Serve with white rice. Enjoy!

Dry Noodles

Bun Cha Hanoi: Vermicelli with Pork Patties & Pork Belly

September 26, 2024 No Comments

Bún Chả Hà Nội is a quintessential Vietnamese dish that originates from Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. It features a delightful combination of grilled pork patties and belly, rice vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a flavorful dipping sauce/broth.

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Pork Patty Marinade
1½ lbs fatty ground pork
2 tablespoons fish sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
3 tablespoons brown sugar
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
¼ cup minced lemongrass
5 fresh garlic cloves (minced)
1 shallot (minced)

Pork Belly
Lightly Season with Salt and Pepper

Vegetables, Herbs and Noodles
Lettuce
Cucumber
Mint
Tia To (Vietnamese Shiso)
Dried Rice Vermicelli Noodles

Pickled Papaya or Radish and Carrots
2 cups thinly sliced unripe green papaya or white radish
2 teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon white sugar
2 tablespoons white vinegar

Sweet Dipping Broth
1 cup hot water
¾ cup sugar
¾ cup fish sauce
3 tablespoons white vinegar
2 cups coco ricotta (coconut soda)
6 garlic cloves (finely minced)
2 Thai chili peppers (thinly sliced)

Directions:

Prep:
Marinate the ground pork and set aside for 15 minutes.
Create Pork Patties and Season Pork Belly.
Wash your veggies and cook the noodles according to package.
Make the Pickle Veggies and Dipping Broth by add all ingredients into a bowl mix and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Cook:
Pan Fry the pork belly and patties until cooked through.
Broil for 2-3 minutes until charred at 450 degrees.

Serve:
In a bowl add the broth, pickles, pork belly, pork patties, and veggies.
Have the noodle in a separate bowl and dip into the broth.

Noodle Soups

Mama’s Sup Nui Recipe

September 26, 2024 No Comments

Mama’s Sup Nui – it’s home in a bowl for me

Broth
1 can chicken broth 14.5 oz
2 tablespoon salt (parboil pork)
3 quarts water
1 small shallot (minced)
2 tablespoons sugar
3 tablespoons fish sauce
1 tablespoon chicken bouillon
2 tablespoons cooking oil
2 lb. pork spareribs
3 Potatoes (peeled & cut into bite size)
4 Carrots (peeled & cut into bite size)
1 Small white radish (peeled & cut into bite size)
1 small yellow onion (peeled & halve)

Noodles, Vegetables, and Garnishes
1 package long macaroni (cook according to package)
Green onions (slice thin)
Cilantro (roughly chop)
Limes
Sambal (optional)
Thai Chili (optional)
Fried shallots

INSTRUCTIONS

Preparation
1. Cut spareribs between the bones. In a medium cooking pot, put pork ribs in the pot and add enough water to cover the ribs completely. Add salt. Bring water to boil over high heat. (5 minutes)
2. Carefully drain the ribs into a colander and rinse under cold run water. Set aside for later use. Also, clean the cooking pot for later use.
3. Peel and cut carrots, white radish, and potatoes into bite size.

Making the Broth
1. In a large stock pot, add oil and minced shallots. Cook until fragrant. Add the spareribs and cook for 3 mins.
2. Add water, chicken broth, and yellow onion to pot. Bring to a boil on medium high heat.
3. Add radish, carrots, and potatoes. Simmer on medium low heat for 30 mins with lid on. Make sure there’s enough water to cover the pork and vegetables.
4. After 30 mins, remove lid and simmer until vegetables are to your liking. (about 30 mins)
5. Season stock with chicken bouillon, sugar, salt, and fish sauce. Adjust to your liking.

Cooking Noodles
1. Cook the noodles according to the packet.

Vegetables and Garnishes
1. Thinly slice green onions, and cilantro.
2. Cut limes into wedges.

Serving
1. To serve, add noodles and ladle in hot broth with pork and vegetables. Garnish bowl with green onions, cilantro, fried shallots, and lime wedge.
2. Add sambal and Thai chili (optional).

Travel

Saigon Coffee Shops: The Ultimate Guide

June 30, 2024 No Comments

Saigon, or Ho Chi Minh City, is a coffee lover’s paradise. With a rich coffee culture and an ever-growing number of cafes, there’s always a new spot to discover. Whether you’re looking for a cozy place to work, a trendy hangout, or just a great cup of coffee, Saigon’s coffee shops have it all. Here are some of the best coffee shops in the city that you must visit.

The Workshop Coffee

Located in District 1, The Workshop Coffee is one of the most popular spots for coffee enthusiasts. This spacious, loft-style cafe is known for its excellent brews and minimalist decor. The baristas here are highly skilled and passionate about their craft, ensuring you get the perfect cup every time. The Workshop also offers a selection of pastries and light bites, making it a great spot for breakfast or a mid-day snack.

L’Usine

L’Usine is a stylish cafe, concept store, and gallery all rolled into one. With multiple locations in District 1, it’s a favorite among both locals and expats. The French-inspired decor, combined with a laid-back atmosphere, makes it an ideal place to relax. The coffee menu is extensive, featuring everything from classic espresso drinks to creative specialty beverages. Don’t forget to try their brunch menu, which includes delicious options like eggs benedict and croissants.

The Coffee House

The Coffee House is a popular chain with numerous locations across Saigon. Known for its cozy ambiance and reliable Wi-Fi, it’s a great place to work or catch up with friends. The menu offers a wide variety of coffee drinks, teas, and smoothies, as well as a selection of cakes and pastries. The Coffee House also frequently updates its menu with seasonal specialties, so there’s always something new to try.

Shin Coffee

Shin Coffee is a must-visit for serious coffee aficionados. With several branches around the city, Shin Coffee specializes in high-quality, single-origin beans sourced from around the world. The baristas are knowledgeable and happy to help you choose the perfect brew. The minimalist design and quiet atmosphere make it a great place to focus and enjoy your coffee.

Saigon Siblings

Saigon Siblings, located in the heart of District 1, is known for its unique blend of Vietnamese and Western coffee culture. The cafe’s design is a mix of modern and traditional elements, creating a welcoming environment. Their signature drink, the Saigon Siblings Coffee, is a must-try, featuring a perfect blend of strong Vietnamese coffee and sweet condensed milk. They also offer a range of delicious pastries and light meals.

Okkio Caffe

Okkio Caffe is a hidden gem in District 1, offering a tranquil escape from the busy streets of Saigon. The cozy, vintage-inspired decor, complete with wooden furniture and soft lighting, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Okkio Caffe is known for its expertly crafted coffee drinks, including their popular cold brew. The menu also features a variety of cakes and desserts that pair perfectly with your coffee.

The Snap Cafe

The Snap Cafe, located in District 2, is a family-friendly spot with a large outdoor play area for kids. The cafe is set in a beautiful garden, providing a relaxing setting to enjoy your coffee. The menu offers a mix of Vietnamese and Western dishes, as well as a great selection of coffee drinks and smoothies. It’s a perfect place for families to unwind and enjoy a meal together.

Little Hanoi Egg Coffee

If you’re in the mood for something different, head to Little Hanoi Egg Coffee. This cozy cafe specializes in the traditional Vietnamese egg coffee, a unique and creamy concoction made with egg yolks, sugar, condensed milk, and robusta coffee. It’s a must-try for anyone visiting Saigon. The cafe also offers other traditional Vietnamese drinks and snacks, making it a great spot to experience local flavors.

Cong Ca Phe

Cong Ca Phe is a popular Vietnamese coffee chain with several locations in Saigon. The cafe’s retro, military-themed decor, inspired by the Vietnam War era, creates a unique and nostalgic atmosphere. Cong Ca Phe is famous for its coconut coffee, a refreshing blend of strong Vietnamese coffee and creamy coconut milk. It’s the perfect drink to cool down on a hot day.

Bosgaurus Coffee Roasters

Bosgaurus Coffee Roasters, located in District 2, is dedicated to serving high-quality, specialty coffee. The cafe sources its beans directly from farmers and roasts them in-house to ensure freshness and quality. The sleek, modern design and serene riverside location make it a great place to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee. The knowledgeable staff can help you choose the perfect brew, whether you prefer a pour-over, espresso, or cold brew.

Conclusion

Saigon’s coffee scene is diverse and ever-evolving, with a wide range of cafes to suit every taste and preference. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or just looking for a cozy spot to relax, you’ll find plenty of options to explore. From trendy, modern cafes to traditional Vietnamese coffee shops, Saigon offers a unique and unforgettable coffee experience. So grab your cup and start exploring the best coffee shops this vibrant city has to offer!

Lifestyle

Vietnam Travel Tips and Guides

June 30, 2024 No Comments

Traveling to Vietnam can be an exciting adventure, but it’s always good to be prepared. Here are some essential tips and guides to help you make the most of your trip:

Learn Basic Vietnamese Phrases

While many people in the tourist areas speak English, knowing a few basic Vietnamese phrases can go a long way. Simple greetings, thank you (cảm ơn), and asking for directions can help you connect with locals.

Dress Appropriately

Vietnam is a conservative country, so it’s important to dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and religious sites. Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for the hot and humid climate.

Stay Hydrated

The weather in Vietnam can be quite hot, so make sure to drink plenty of water. Always carry a bottle with you and consider using a reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste.

Bargain at Markets

Bargaining is a common practice at local markets. Start by offering about half of the asking price and negotiate from there. Always be polite and friendly during the process.

Be Mindful of Traffic

Traffic in Vietnam can be chaotic, especially in major cities like Saigon and Hanoi. Be cautious when crossing the street and follow the local traffic flow. It’s often best to follow a local when crossing busy roads.

Use Reliable Transportation

For getting around, consider using reputable transportation services like Grab (the local version of Uber) or taxis from trusted companies like Vinasun and Mai Linh. Avoid unlicensed taxis to prevent scams.

Try the Street Food

Vietnam is famous for its street food, and trying it is a must. Look for busy stalls with a high turnover of food, as this usually indicates freshness. Don’t miss out on dishes like pho, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls.

Respect Local Customs

Show respect for local customs and traditions. For example, always remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a temple. Additionally, avoid pointing with your finger, as it can be considered rude.

Stay Connected

Consider getting a local SIM card to stay connected during your trip. It’s affordable and will make navigating the city and staying in touch with fellow travelers much easier.

Have Travel Insurance

Finally, make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers health, accidents, and theft. It’s better to be safe than sorry in case of any unexpected incidents.

By following these tips and exploring the must-see places and best food spots, you’ll have an unforgettable experience in Saigon and beyond. Enjoy your travels!

Street Food

Saigon – Best Food in District 2

June 30, 2024 No Comments

District 2 is not just about modern living; it’s also a great place to explore a diverse culinary scene. Here are some of the best food spots in District 2:

The Deck Saigon

The Deck Saigon is a riverside restaurant offering a luxurious dining experience with stunning views of the Saigon River. The menu features a mix of Asian and Western dishes, with fresh seafood being a highlight.

MAD House

MAD House is a cozy restaurant with a Scandinavian-inspired menu. It’s a great spot for brunch, with dishes like avocado toast, eggs Benedict, and fresh salads.

An Cafe Saigon

An Cafe Saigon is known for its beautiful garden setting and delicious Vietnamese cuisine. The menu includes traditional dishes like bun thit nuong and banh xeo, all made with fresh ingredients.

Mekong Merchant

Mekong Merchant is a popular spot for both locals and expats. The menu offers a variety of international dishes, including wood-fired pizzas, hearty salads, and fresh seafood.

Baba’s Kitchen

If you’re in the mood for Indian food, head to Baba’s Kitchen. This restaurant serves authentic Indian dishes, from butter chicken to biryani, all bursting with flavor.

Street Food

Saigon – Best Food in District 1

June 30, 2024 No Comments

District 1 is the culinary hub of Saigon, offering a wide array of food options ranging from street food to high-end dining. Here are some of the best food spots you should check out:

Pho 2000

Pho 2000 is famous for serving delicious pho and for being visited by former US President Bill Clinton. The beef pho here is rich and flavorful, making it a must-try.

Banh Mi Huynh Hoa

For the best banh mi in town, head to Banh Mi Huynh Hoa. This place is always busy, but the wait is worth it. The baguettes are stuffed with a variety of meats, pickles, and herbs, creating a perfect balance of flavors.

Ben Thanh Street Food Market

Located near the iconic Ben Thanh Market, this street food market is a foodie’s paradise. You can find a variety of Vietnamese dishes, including fresh spring rolls, grilled skewers, and delicious desserts.

Secret Garden

Secret Garden offers a unique dining experience with its rooftop location and traditional Vietnamese dishes. The atmosphere is cozy and charming, perfect for a relaxing meal.

The Lunch Lady

The Lunch Lady is a popular street food stall known for its rotating menu of delicious soups. Each day features a different type of soup, from bun bo Hue to hu tieu, all prepared with fresh ingredients.

Street Food

Saigon Must See: District 2

June 30, 2024 No Comments

District 2 in Saigon, also known as Thao Dien, has become a popular spot for expats and locals alike. It’s known for its modern lifestyle, trendy cafes, and beautiful riverside views. Here are some must-see places in District 2:

Thao Dien Neighborhood

Thao Dien is the heart of District 2, filled with international schools, modern apartments, and a wide variety of restaurants and cafes. It’s a great place to wander around, relax in a coffee shop, or enjoy some international cuisine.

Vincom Mega Mall

Vincom Mega Mall is one of the largest shopping centers in Saigon, offering a wide range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. There’s also an ice-skating rink and a large supermarket for all your shopping needs.

Saigon Outcast

Saigon Outcast is a unique creative space that hosts various events, including flea markets, live music, and outdoor movie nights. It’s a great spot to experience the local arts and culture scene.

Snow Town Saigon

If you’re looking for a unique experience, visit Snow Town Saigon, an indoor winter wonderland where you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other snow-related activities.

Thao Dien Village

Located by the Saigon River, Thao Dien Village is a peaceful retreat offering riverside dining and luxurious spa services. It’s the perfect place to unwind and escape the city’s hustle and bustle.

Snap Cafe

Snap Cafe is a popular spot for families and friends to gather. With a large outdoor play area for kids, a variety of food options, and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s a great place to spend a leisurely afternoon.