Hanoi, a city brimming with ancient charm and vibrant energy, is also a haven for food enthusiasts. Amidst the bustling streets and serene temples, you’ll discover a world of culinary delights, each dish narrating a story of tradition and flavour. One such culinary adventure awaits those eager to explore the versatility of a humble ingredient: the ripe banana.
Imagine strolling through a local market, the air thick with the aroma of ripe bananas. These golden treasures are not just a sweet treat in Hanoi but a key ingredient in a surprising array of savoury dishes.
Street food vendor in Hanoi selling ripe banana dishes
Beyond Sweet Treats: Savoury Banana Delights
One of the most popular Hanoi delicacies is “Nem Chua Rán,” crispy spring rolls filled with fermented pork and ripe bananas. The sweetness of the banana perfectly balances the tangy pork, creating a symphony of flavours that dance on your palate.
Then there’s “Cá Kho Chuối Xanh,” a hearty catfish stew simmered with unripe bananas, creating a unique blend of sweet, sour, and savoury notes. The dish is traditionally cooked in a clay pot, allowing the flavours to meld beautifully.
Cá Kho Chuối Xanh served in a clay pot with steamed rice
Sweet Endings: Banana in Desserts
Of course, no culinary journey through Hanoi’s banana-infused cuisine would be complete without indulging in some sweet treats. “Chè Chuối,” a warm, creamy dessert soup, features ripe bananas simmered in a sweet coconut milk broth, often adorned with crunchy peanuts and sesame seeds.
Another must-try is “Bánh Chuối Hấp,” a steamed banana cake that’s both fragrant and fluffy. This simple yet satisfying dessert is best enjoyed warm, offering a delightful blend of textures and sweetness.
Bánh Chuối Hấp (Steamed Banana Cake) served on a banana leaf
Experience Hanoi’s Banana-licious Cuisine with TRAVELCAR
From savoury dishes to sweet delights, ripe bananas play a starring role in Hanoi’s vibrant culinary scene. TRAVELCAR invites you to embark on a gastronomic adventure, exploring the diverse flavours and culinary traditions that make this city so unique.
Our team at TRAVELCAR can arrange transportation to local markets, renowned restaurants, and hidden culinary gems, ensuring you don’t miss out on the best banana-infused dishes Hanoi has to offer. Contact us today to plan your personalized culinary journey!