Lẩu Gà Lá É

Introduction to Lẩu Gà Lá É in Đà Lạt

Lẩu gà lá é is a famous hotpot dish from the Central Highlands of Vietnam, especially popular in Đà Lạt, a city known for its cool climate and beautiful scenery. This dish combines the comforting warmth of chicken hotpot with the unique flavor of lá é—a local herb that adds both fragrance and medicinal value.

Characteristics of the Dish

Lẩu gà lá é is distinct from other hotpot dishes because of its light yet flavorful broth, made by simmering chicken bones and herbs. The star ingredient, lá é, belongs to the basil family and gives the dish a slightly sour and peppery taste, similar to a mix between basil and mint. The combination of tender chicken and aromatic leaves creates a hotpot experience that is both healthy and appetizing.

Because Đà Lạt is often cool or cold, enjoying a bubbling pot of this herbal chicken hotpot is a favorite among both locals and tourists.

Main Ingredients

The main ingredients for Lẩu gà lá é include:

• Free-range chicken (usually chopped into medium pieces)

• Lá é leaves (used both in the broth and for dipping)

• Mushrooms (like straw mushrooms or oyster mushrooms)

• Bamboo shoots or bamboo stems (optional but adds texture)

• Chili and lemongrass (for extra aroma and spice)

• Rice noodles or instant noodles (served with the hotpot)

• Dipping sauce (often salt, chili, and lime)

Some places may add tofu, okra, or local vegetables to make the dish more filling.

How to Enjoy Lẩu Gà Lá É

When served, the hotpot comes to your table in a simmering pot. First, you dip the chicken pieces into the boiling broth to cook them thoroughly. After that, add the mushrooms and other vegetables.

The lá é leaves are usually added last to preserve their delicate flavor. You only need to dip them quickly into the broth—they should remain green and slightly crisp. Eat the chicken and vegetables with noodles, and don’t forget to dip them in the flavorful salt-chili-lime sauce.

It’s best enjoyed with friends or family, especially during Đà Lạt’s chilly evenings. The warm broth and herbal aroma create a cozy and satisfying meal.

Why It’s Special in Đà Lạt

Though you can find Lẩu gà lá é in other parts of Vietnam, the version in Đà Lạt is especially beloved because:

• The cold weather makes hotpot more enjoyable.

• Local restaurants often use fresh, organic herbs grown in nearby farms.

• It’s a comforting food after a day of exploring Đà Lạt’s natural beauty.

Some popular spots to try this dish in Đà Lạt include Quán Tao Ngộ, Lẩu Gà Lá É 668, and many small local eateries that serve it hot and fresh.