Vegetarian dishes at the Vegan Food Festival 2024 in Hue

 

In an article published on August 4 by National Geographic Traveller (USA), Stables, who also writes for BBC Travel, Lonely Planet, and The Independent, shared his impressions of the former imperial capital, approaching Hue not just as a destination, but as a cultural and culinary journey. From royal meals reminiscent of the Nguyen dynasty to the widespread vegetarian lifestyle deeply rooted in local beliefs and traditions, Hue offered him an experience like no other.

 

One of the most memorable moments for Stables was learning about King Dong Khanh’s legendary 50-dish banquet. The extravagant nature of these royal meals challenged chefs of the time to craft elaborate, delicate vegetarian dishes, laying the foundation for Hue’s vegetarian culinary legacy that still thrives today.

 

Whether Hue can be considered as the country’s food capital or not is up for debate, but it’s definitely the country’s vegetarian capital, Stables quoted a local tour guide.

 

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the rooftops of the Ngọ Môn (Noon Gate), Stables crossed the Perfume River and immersed himself in the lively atmosphere of Hue’s night walking streets. He was drawn to the street food stalls, where the aroma of lemongrass, basil, and roasted peanuts filled the air. He especially enjoyed bánh xèo - crispy turmeric pancakes packed with fresh herbs and vegetables.

 

Keen to explore beyond just eating, Stables visited the historic Dong Ba Market, where the vibrant display of fresh vegetables, lotus seeds, and herbs caught his attention. Driven by curiosity, he enrolled in a vegetarian cooking class in Phu Thuong Ward. In a tranquil garden setting, he learned how to prepare gỏi chay (vegetarian salad) using figs, carrots, mushrooms, soybeans, and vegetarian fish sauce.