Herring salad - A specialty dish of Kiên Giang province

Herring salad is a specialty dish of Kiên Giang, prepared from simple ingredients but with a distinctive, unforgettable flavor. Let Timtour assist you in exploring the memorable taste of this dish!
 

Herring salad is a common dish in coastal regions, but the Kiên Giang version boasts a distinct flavor profile. This is because the herring used in Kiên Giang has a sweet and robust taste, prepared with skillful hands by the locals.

To make Kiên Giang herring salad, fresh herring must be carefully selected from nearby waters. After preparing the fish, it is thinly sliced. Typically, the fish is cut into evenly shaped fillets, creating an enticing and visually appealing dish.

The fresh fish is not marinated with spices but instead dipped in vinegar to maintain its crispiness. The fish is meticulously arranged on a plate, then topped with coconut, roasted peanuts, thinly sliced onions, and evenly sprinkled herbs. Herring salad is often served with raw vegetables or papaya.

Enjoying Kiên Giang herring salad is an experience in itself. The combination of sweet, sour, and savory flavors, along with the crispiness of the fish and the freshness of the accompanying vegetables, creates a symphony of tastes that lingers on the palate, leaving a lasting impression.
 

You should eat herring salad with rice paper, as this method allows you to fully enjoy the distinctive flavors of the ingredients blending together:

- Take a piece of rice paper, then add raw vegetables, lettuce, thinly sliced herring, coconut threads, and peanuts.
- Roll it up and dip it into a bowl of flavorful fish sauce.

When you take a bite, you'll experience the chewiness of the rice paper, the freshness of the vegetables, and the natural sweetness of the fish. This herring salad rice paper roll is considered to encapsulate the full flavor of the Kiên Giang coastal region.
 

If you've never tried raw seafood before, you might feel a bit hesitant when eating this salad. However, the unique and distinct flavor of Kiên Giang herring salad is not difficult to enjoy. The fresh fish is skillfully prepared to eliminate any fishy odor, leaving it surprisingly fresh. The grated coconut adds a crunchy and creamy sensation, making the dish even more unique.

However, if you have a sensitive stomach, be cautious when enjoying it. Some establishments may not prepare the fish properly, which could cause discomfort. Additionally, based on Inbound Vietnam's experience, when consuming raw seafood, it's advisable to eat in moderation to avoid digestive issues.