The quintessence of Hue vegetarian cuisine: Integrated vegetarian dishes

Not only stopping at familiar dishes, Hue vegetarian chefs have been diversifying the menu, combining new ingredients and modern processing techniques to create unique and more attractive vegetarian dishes while still maintaining the identity and purity of the ancient capital's vegetarian cuisine.

Asia - Europe combination

Culinary culture researcher Le Tan, Vice President of the Vietnam Culinary Culture Association, said that nowadays, Hue vegetarian cuisine not only serves local people but also attracts a large number of domestic and foreign tourists. Many tourists come to Hue not only to visit historical sites but also to explore and enjoy unique, popular vegetarian dishes.

With its richness, diversity, and distinctive flavors, Hue cuisine has become a unique culinary culture, contributing to the appeal of the ancient capital. One of the notable trends is the emergence of high-class, professional vegetarian restaurants. These restaurants not only focus on the quality of the dishes but also invest in the architectural space and decoration, bringing a sophisticated and luxurious culinary experience.

Culinary culture researcher Le Tan (left) presents a collection of poems about Hue dishes that he composed to reporter Bui Ngoc Long.

PHOTO: CONG HAU

According to Mr. Tan, the menus at these restaurants are often more diverse, with a combination of traditional vegetarian dishes and creative dishes that combine Asian and European flavors. For example, diners can find dishes such as "vegetarian vegetable salad", "pasta with mushroom and vegetable sauce", or "vegetarian sushi" alongside traditional dishes such as vegetarian vermicelli soup and vegetarian spring rolls. This creativity is very delicate, honoring traditional ingredients.

Mr. Tan believes that in order for vegetarian cuisine to reach the world , chefs need to make an effort to find and use new, healthy ingredients that are in line with the world's healthy eating trends. Nutritious nuts such as walnuts, cashews, almonds, or organic vegetables and imported mushrooms are also used in processing to create vegetarian dishes that are not only delicious but also nutritious. Applying modern processing techniques such as steaming, baking without oil or using an oil-free fryer also helps the dish retain its natural flavor and reduce the amount of fat, which is good for the health of the user.

The presentation is also elevated to an art form. Vegetarian dishes must be meticulously and beautifully presented, like sculptures, attracting the eyes of diners. The sophistication in the arrangement of colors and shapes, along with the use of unique dishes, has contributed to enhancing the aesthetic value of Hue vegetarian cuisine. This not only satisfies diners but also helps promote the image of Hue vegetarian cuisine to international friends.

Beautiful vegetarian dishes of Hue people

PHOTO: HUY LE

Develop from core values

According to Mr. Le Tan, the potential for developing vegetarian culinary tourism in Hue is huge, attracting not only vegetarians but also tourists who want to experience a pure, healthy culinary style.

Promoting Hue vegetarian cuisine through media channels, social networks, and international culinary events is an important strategy to bring Hue vegetarian cuisine to the world.

Recently, many restaurants and hotels in Hue have proactively built vegetarian culinary tours, taking tourists to pagodas to learn about Buddhist culture, participate in vegetarian cooking classes, or simply enjoy traditional vegetarian meals at local restaurants. This not only helps tourists have a deeper insight into Hue vegetarian cuisine but also creates unique, unforgettable experiences.

Vegetarian salad at a restaurant in Hue

PHOTO: HUY LE

In addition, organizing vegetarian food festivals and vegetarian cooking competitions are also effective ways to promote and develop Hue vegetarian cuisine. These events not only attract a large number of local people but are also an opportunity for vegetarian chefs to show off their talent and creativity, while introducing unique vegetarian dishes to tourists...

Mr. Tan believes that to further enhance the potential of vegetarian culinary tourism, it is necessary to invest in training high-quality human resources, from professional vegetarian chefs to service staff with extensive knowledge of vegetarian cuisine and Hue culture. Building diverse and rich tourism products, combining vegetarian cuisine with other types of tourism such as spiritual tourism, eco-tourism, and community tourism is also a promising direction.

"In the future, with the efforts of local authorities, tourism businesses and the community, I hope that Hue vegetarian cuisine will continue to develop strongly, becoming a unique culinary brand, attracting tourists from all over the world. Hue is not only an ancient capital with cultural heritages but also a paradise of vegetarian cuisine, where tourists can find peace and serenity in each dish and each flavor. This is the "Quintessence of Hue vegetarian cuisine" in the new era - integrating but still maintaining its own core and unique values", Mr. Tan said.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/tinh-hoa-am-thuc-chay-hue-mon-chay-hoi-nhap-185250912203728009.htm