Gỏi Cá Nhệch
1. Introduction:
Nhech Fish Salad, or "Gỏi Cá Nhệch," is a distinctive and flavorful dish from Cat Ba Island, a popular destination in Hai Phong, Vietnam. This traditional dish is made from nhech fish, a unique species found in the waters around Cat Ba. Known for its freshness and delicate texture, Nhech Fish Salad is a must-try for visitors exploring the island's culinary delights.
2. Characteristics and Ingredients:
The key feature of Gỏi Cá Nhệch is the use of raw nhech fish, which has firm, white flesh and a slightly chewy texture. The fish is sliced thinly and mixed with a variety of fresh herbs, vegetables, and a tangy, savory dressing. The main ingredients include:
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Fresh nhech fish, cleaned and sliced thinly
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Fresh herbs like mint, coriander, and basil
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Lettuce, cucumber, and other fresh vegetables
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Lime juice, garlic, chili, and fish sauce for the dressing
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Roasted peanuts and crispy rice crackers for garnish
3. How to Enjoy:
To enjoy this dish, simply mix the fresh, thinly sliced nhech fish with the herbs and vegetables. Add the dressing made from lime juice, fish sauce, garlic, and chili, and toss everything together. The result is a refreshing balance of sour, salty, and spicy flavors. The dish is often served with crispy rice crackers, which you can break and sprinkle on top to add a crunchy texture. It's a light, healthy dish that perfectly captures the essence of coastal Vietnamese cuisine.