As winter arrives, Ninh Binh dons a quiet, poetic beauty. Limestone mountains loom faintly through veils of mist, while winding rivers flow gently through a serene landscape. In the crisp, chilly air, nothing is more comforting than savoring the distinctive cuisine of this ancient capital - where each dish is not only delicious but also rich with stories of culture, people, and nature.
Ninh Binh’s cuisine is renowned for its rustic yet irresistible flavors. Mountain goat meat, crispy scorched rice, spicy eel vermicelli, and steaming mountain snails are among the must-try specialties. Each dish carries its own unique taste, warming the body while offering a vivid glimpse into the region’s diverse culinary heritage. If you visit Ninh Binh during this season, these delicacies should be at the top of your list.
Mountain Goat Meat & Crispy Scorched Rice
Ninh Binh’s mountain goat meat is famous for its naturally sweet flavor, firm texture, and distinctive aroma of the highlands. Prepared in various ways - such as lime-marinated goat, grilled goat, or steamed goat - it is typically served with golden, crunchy scorched rice, drizzled with a rich, savory sauce. This harmonious combination leaves diners savoring both the warmth of the dish and the unforgettable flavors unique to Ninh Binh cuisine.
Tong Truong Mud Carp
Tong Truong mud carp, a fish native to the region’s low-lying wetlands, is grilled to perfection, resulting in crispy skin and tender, fatty flesh. Enjoyed with hot rice on a cool winter day, it offers a simple yet deeply satisfying culinary experience.
Eel Vermicelli Soup
A steaming bowl of eel vermicelli, featuring a robust broth made from fresh eel, garnished with herbs and a hint of spicy chili, is an ideal choice for a chilly morning. Light yet flavorful, the dish awakens the palate and leaves visitors eager for another taste.
Mountain Snails
Mountain snails are harvested from streams and limestone crevices, then steamed or stir-fried with traditional seasonings such as lemongrass, ginger, and kaffir lime leaves. Their chewy, crisp texture and subtly sweet flavor, infused with herbal notes of the mountains, are best enjoyed hot - especially in the cool winter air.
With its picturesque natural scenery and distinctive culinary culture, Ninh Binh is not only a destination for sightseeing but also a place to fully experience the flavors and warmth of the ancient capital. A winter visit becomes truly complete when travelers can admire the majestic mountains and poetic landscapes while indulging in the culinary essence of this historic land.