Ninh Binh, the land of the ancient capital Hoa Lu, is not only famous for its majestic natural landscapes and unique cultural–spiritual heritage sites, but also for its rich and diverse traditional cuisine. Among the province’s many culinary treasures, Nem De Ninh Binh (Ninh Binh Goat Fermented Roll) stands out as a signature specialty that helps define the local gastronomic identity. This dish captivates diners not only with its distinctive flavor but also with the dedication of Ninh Binh’s people to preserving and promoting traditional cuisine.
Nem De Ninh Binh is made from a signature local ingredient—mountain goats raised naturally on the province’s limestone hills. Feeding on forest leaves, these goats produce lean, firm, and aromatic meat with a unique taste. To create a perfect batch of Nem De, each step must be carried out meticulously, following a traditional, time-honored process.
The meat used is typically from the tenderloin, thigh, and goat skin. It is lightly singed over a straw fire until the skin turns golden and crispy while retaining the meat’s natural sweetness. After being cleaned and sliced thinly, the meat and skin are mixed with roasted rice powder (thinh), made from glutinous and regular rice roasted in a cast-iron pan and ground finely. The roasted rice powder gives the dish its signature nutty aroma and helps the meat ferment naturally. The mixture is seasoned with pepper, garlic, and salt, then shaped into small portions, wrapped in dinh lang (Polyscias fruticosa) or guava leaves, and finally covered with fresh banana leaves tied securely with soft strips. After about two days of fermentation, the rolls develop their characteristic aroma and are ready to serve.
When enjoyed, Nem De offers a gentle sourness balanced with the rich sweetness of goat meat, the nutty taste of roasted rice powder, and the refreshing fragrance of guava or dinh lang leaves. The dish is typically served with fresh herbs such as fig leaves or dinh lang leaves, and dipped in ginger soy sauce or chili–lime fish sauce—creating an unforgettable, distinctive flavor.
Together with other local specialties such as Crispy Rice (Com Chay), Eel Vermicelli (Mien Luon), and Gia Vien Shrimp Paste (Mam Tep Gia Vien), Nem De Ninh Binh enriches the province’s diverse culinary scene, contributing to the promotion of Ninh Binh as a safe, friendly, and attractive tourist destination.
With its delicious taste and deeply traditional preparation, Nem De Ninh Binh truly deserves recognition as one of the quintessential culinary treasures of the ancient capital. The dish reflects the creativity and sophistication of local culinary art while reinforcing Ninh Binh’s position and charm on Vietnam’s—and the world’s—tourism map.