Ha Giang, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and cultural richness, also boasts a diverse and distinct culinary identity. Its unique specialties have consistently captivated travelers near and far, enticing them with a tapestry of flavors deeply rooted in local traditions. Let's uncover Traveloka's list of the top 10 must-try dishes in Ha Giang, offering a taste of this land of the triangular flowers.
Top 10 must-try dishes in Ha Giang
1. Thắng Dền:
Thắng Dền, originating from Yên Minh district, features glutinous rice that's plump, fragrant, and subtly sweet. Inside each sticky rice ball lies a variety of fillings, from mung beans to red beans, delivering a delightful chewiness and a hint of rice fragrance.
- Recommended Location: 154 Trần Hưng Đạo - Thắng Dền Bà Béo.
- Price Range: 25,000 – 50,000 VND per bowl.
2. Thắng Cố:
Dong Van and Meo Vac offer the best local food experiences. Thang Co, a flavorful dish with cardamom seeds, is a must-try during your tour. It's commonly available in Sunday markets. Served on communal long tables, this unique dish made from horse meat (with additions like pork, cow, or buffalo in some places) allows you to connect with friendly locals as you enjoy its distinctive taste.
- Recommended Location: Đồng Văn Market - Đồng Văn Town, Ha Giang.
- Price Range: Approximately 30,000 - 50,000 VND per bowl.
3. Buffalo meat upstairs kitchen:
Buffalo meat upstairs kitchen in Off the beaten track Ha Giang, Vietnam
A traditional delicacy synonymous with Ha Giang, offering a smoky, robust flavor of smoked buffalo meat. This dish mirrors the culinary style of the Thai ethnic group and is a customary meal during festivals and ceremonies.
- Price Range: Around 800,000 to 1,100,000 VND per kg.
4. Smoked Sausage "Lạp Xưởng Gác Bếp":
Crafted from pork shoulder and seasoned with garlic, spices, and mac khen seeds, these sausages epitomize the mountainous aroma and taste.
- Recommended Location: Xín Mần Market - Cốc Pài Town Center, Ha Giang.
- Price Range: 250,000 – 300,000 VND per 500 grams.
5. Sour Pho "Phở Chua":
Originating from China, sour pho found its way into Vietnamese cuisine. This unique dish, prepared with sticky rice and a tangy-sweet broth, paired with roasted meat, sausage, and chili, delivers a distinct flavor.
- Recommended Location: Đồng Văn Market.
- Price Range: 30,000 – 50,000 VND per bowl.
6. Triangle-shaped Buckwheat Cake "Bánh Tam Giác Mạch":
Triangle-shaped Buckwheat Cake in Off the beaten track Ha Giang, Vietnam
Reflecting the iconic triangular flower, these cakes are soft, slightly oily, and carry the distinct aroma of the buckwheat flower.
- Price Range: 15,000 VND per piece.
7. Five-Colored Sticky Rice "Xôi Ngũ Sắc":
Five-Colored Sticky Rice in off the beaten track Ha Giang, Vietnam
A symbol of the Tày ethnic group, this dish signifies the region's cultural identity with its five different colors and ingredients that represent the five elements.
- Address: Mèo Vạc Market or Đồng Văn Old Quarter.
- Price Range: 10,000 - 15,000 VND per serving.
8. Bac Me Bamboo-tube Rice:
Bac Me Bamboo-tube Rice in off the beaten track Ha Giang, Vietnam
Hà Giang is a region known for its various aromatic sticky rice varieties, contributing to the recognition of Bac Me Bamboo-tube Rice - a distinctive specialty of the Tày ethnic group here. With its simple appearance, whether it's just grilled or cooked with sesame salt or elevated with grilled chicken, this dish has the power to captivate many hearts.
Cooking Bac Me Bamboo-tube Rice isn't just about using delicious sticky rice; it's also about mentioning bamboo tubes, reeds, and bamboo – ingredients that contribute to its fragrance, attractiveness, uniqueness, and sweet delicious taste.
Price range: 25,000 - 50,000 VND
- Recommended places: Bac Me Market; Dong Van Market
- Price range: 25,000 - 50,000 VND
9. Đồng Văn Old Quarter Steamed Rice Rolls "Bánh Cuốn":
Đồng Văn Old Quarter Steamed Rice Rolls in off the beaten track Ha Giang, Vietnam
Thin, fragrant rice rolls with a meaty filling, served with a bone broth. Best enjoyed with dried shallots and fresh herbs.
- Address: Bánh Cuốn Bà Hà - 31 Phố Cổ, Đồng Văn.
- Price Range: 30,000 - 50,000 VND per plate.
10. "Cháo Ấu Tẩu" Yam Porridge:
"Cháo Ấu Tẩu" Yam Porridge in off the beaten track Ha Giang, Vietnam
- Prepared using yam soaked in rice water, this nutritious porridge offers a rich, fragrant taste and is often paired with pork and eggs.
- Price Range: 30,000 - 50,000 VND per bowl.
We hope that your experience will be nothing short of amazing!
Venturing off the beaten path in Vietnam can lead to some of the most memorable and authentic travel experiences. These hidden gems offer a chance to explore the country's natural beauty, cultural diversity, and rich history without the crowds.
Moreover, you can also visit the Mekong Delta off-the-beaten-track. Explore the quieter Ben Tre and An Giang provinces for a glimpse into the local way of life.
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1-day Mekong tour from Can Tho | The Myst Mekong
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Mekong Delta 1 Day Tour - Ben Tre boat and bike experience
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Mekong delta tour 3 days with homestay - cycling - Cai Rang floating market
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