You’ve probably heard the saying “cut the throat” (cắt lợi trùm) in Hanoi, right? It’s a local expression referring to a strict, even a bit intimidating, dietary restriction that can be applied to many situations, including before a surgery, during a special occasion, or even during a funeral. It can be overwhelming, especially for first-time visitors. So, what exactly is “cut the throat” and what foods should you avoid? Let’s dive into the details.
What is “Cut the Throat” (Cắt Lợi Trùm)?
“Cut the throat” is a Vietnamese tradition that emphasizes abstaining from certain foods, particularly those deemed “hot” or “cold” based on traditional Chinese medicine principles, which believe that consuming the wrong food can disrupt the body’s balance and lead to illness. It’s not about a specific diet but rather a set of food restrictions that are applied to various situations.
What Foods to Avoid During “Cut the Throat”?
“Hot” Foods
- Animal meat: While you can enjoy chicken and fish, beef, pork, and duck are considered “hot” and are typically avoided.
- Spicy foods: Chili peppers, garlic, and ginger are known for their heat and can be off-limits during “cut the throat.”
- Seafood with shells: Crabs, shrimp, and other shellfish are considered “hot” due to their high protein content.
- Fermented foods: Vietnamese fermented foods like nem chua (fermented pork sausage), mắm tôm (shrimp paste), and chao muc (fermented squid) are also considered “hot.”
- Alcohol: Alcoholic beverages are generally avoided as they are believed to increase body heat.
“Cold” Foods
- Raw foods: Salads, raw vegetables, and fruits are considered “cold” and are usually avoided to prevent potential digestive issues.
- Ice cream and cold drinks: These can also be considered “cold” and are best avoided, especially during the warmer months.
- Cold fruit juices: While fruit juices are generally good for you, it is recommended to avoid those made from cold fruits or chilled.
Why “Cut the Throat” Matters
The belief behind “cut the throat” is about achieving balance and harmony within the body. By avoiding certain foods considered “hot” or “cold,” the body is believed to be able to heal itself and prevent illness. However, it is important to note that there is no scientific evidence to support these claims.
How to Navigate “Cut the Throat” as a Traveler
- Ask your host: If you are visiting someone’s home, it’s always best to ask them what foods are appropriate for them.
- Observe local customs: Pay attention to what other people are eating. This can give you a good idea of what is considered acceptable.
- Be respectful: Even if you don’t understand the reasons behind the food restrictions, it’s important to be respectful of local customs.
Our Experience with “Cut the Throat”
My friend, Sarah, recently went to Hanoi for a week. She was staying with a local family in the Ba Đình District and had a wonderful time. However, she did have one awkward moment. She was invited to a dinner at their friend’s house in Hoàn Kiếm District and was offered a plate of nem chua. Sarah, who didn’t know about the “cut the throat” tradition, politely refused, explaining that she didn’t like fermented pork. Her host, a kind and patient man, chuckled and said, “Ah, you must be “cut the throat”!” Sarah was relieved to know that her refusal wasn’t considered rude, but rather, she was showing respect for the local tradition.
TravelCar: Your Partner in Hanoi
Whether you are observing “cut the throat” or just exploring the vibrant streets of Hanoi, TRAVELCAR can make your journey smooth and enjoyable. We offer a range of reliable rental vehicles, including 16-seater, 29-seater, and 45-seater buses, to suit your needs. Let us help you create a memorable experience in Hanoi!
Contact us today for a personalized quote!
Phone Number: 0372960696
Email: [email protected]
Address: 260 Cầu Giấy, Hà Nội
Nem chua: a fermented pork sausage considered "hot" in Vietnamese tradition
Seafood with shells like shrimp are considered "hot" and can be off-limits during "cut the throat"
Alcohol is believed to increase body heat and is often avoided during "cut the throat" in Hanoi
Want to learn more about Vietnamese customs? Check out our articles on [link to other articles on Vietnamese customs]. Let us know your questions in the comments below!
