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Dê Núi Vĩnh Lộc

Table of Contents
  1. 1. What is Dê Núi Vĩnh Lộc?
  3. 2. Characteristics of Vĩnh Lộc Mountain Goat Meat
  4. 3. Popular Dishes Made from Vĩnh Lộc Goat
  6. 4. How to Enjoy It
  7. 5. Cultural and Regional Importance

1. What is Dê Núi Vĩnh Lộc?

Dê núi Vĩnh Lộc, or Vĩnh Lộc mountain goat, is a renowned specialty of Thanh Hóa province, especially in the Vĩnh Lộc district near the famous Citadel of the Hồ Dynasty (Thành Nhà Hồ).

Raised in rocky, mountainous areas, these goats are free-range and feed on natural herbs, grass, and leaves, which gives their meat a firm texture, rich flavor, and low fat content. This dish has become a culinary highlight that attracts both tourists and locals.

2. Characteristics of Vĩnh Lộc Mountain Goat Meat

Unlike farm-raised goats, Vĩnh Lộc goats are leaner, more muscular, and have a naturally gamey aroma that is not overpowering. The meat is known for its sweetness, firmness, and elasticity—perfect for a wide range of dishes.

The most distinctive quality is the purity and freshness of the meat due to the goats’ natural diet and active lifestyle in the hills and rocky terrains of Vĩnh Lộc.

Goat meat from this region can be prepared in various delicious ways. Some of the most famous include:

  • Dê tái chanh (Rare goat with lime): Thin slices of goat meat lightly blanched, then marinated in lime juice, garlic, and herbs. It’s refreshing, tender, and fragrant.

  • Dê hấp gừng (Steamed goat with ginger): Goat meat steamed with ginger, lemongrass, and herbs—warm and soothing.

  • Dê nướng than hoa (Grilled goat over charcoal): Marinated goat meat grilled to perfection over charcoal, creating a smoky and savory dish.

  • Tiết canh dê (Goat blood pudding): A local delicacy not for the faint-hearted, typically served with herbs and peanuts.

  • Lẩu dê (Goat hotpot): A popular group dish, where diners cook pieces of goat in a flavorful broth with vegetables, tofu, and noodles.

4. How to Enjoy It

Goat meat is often served with:

  • Fermented tofu (chao) as dipping sauce

  • Fresh herbs, green banana slices, and rice paper

  • Rượu cần (Vietnamese rice wine) for a complete local experience

Meals featuring dê núi are typically shared with family and friends, making them popular during reunions, festivals, and celebrations.

5. Cultural and Regional Importance

Dê núi Vĩnh Lộc is not only a culinary specialty but also a symbol of regional pride in Thanh Hóa. For many, it reflects the resourcefulness of the local people, who have turned the rugged terrain into an asset by raising high-quality mountain goats.

Restaurants around Thành Nhà Hồ have become well-known for their goat dishes, attracting travelers who wish to taste both history and flavor. Locals consider dê núi a dish of hospitality, often used to honor guests or mark special occasions.

Vĩnh Lộc mountain goat meat is a must-try when visiting Thanh Hóa—a perfect example of how nature, culture, and cuisine come together in Vietnamese regional food.

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