Cơm hến

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Cơm hến or clam rice is a traditional Vietnamese dish, originating from the central city of Hue, Vietnam. This dish is a fine example of Vietnamese cuisine, known for its balance of flavors, textures, and use of fresh ingredients. Cơm hến combines simple, locally sourced ingredients to create a dish that is both flavorful and nutritious.

Ingredients and Preparation

The main ingredient of Cơm hến is baby clams or basket clams, which are small, sweet, and tender. These clams are collected from the local rivers, especially the Huong River in Hue, which is known for its clean and clear water. The clams are steamed and then separated from their shells. The broth from steaming the clams is saved for later use in the dish.

Other key ingredients include cooked rice, peanuts, sesame seeds, crispy pork skin, herbs (such as mint, coriander, and Vietnamese coriander), and vegetables (including cucumber, banana flower, and star fruit). The dish is seasoned with fish sauce, chili pepper, and sometimes a bit of shrimp paste, creating a complex flavor profile that is salty, sweet, spicy, and umami.

The preparation of Cơm hến involves carefully mixing the cooked rice with the clam meat, adding the peanuts, sesame seeds, and crispy pork skin for texture. The fresh herbs and vegetables are then mixed in, and the dish is dressed with the clam broth, fish sauce, and chili pepper to taste. It is often garnished with fried shallots and served with additional fish sauce and chili on the side.

Cultural Significance

Cơm hến is more than just a dish; it is a representation of the culinary heritage of Hue. This dish reflects the resourcefulness of the Vietnamese people, making use of local ingredients to create a meal that is both satisfying and flavorful. It is a popular choice for breakfast among locals but can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

In Hue, Cơm hến is not only a staple food but also a source of local pride. It embodies the simplicity and elegance of Hue's cuisine, which is less about extravagance and more about the harmony of flavors. The dish is a must-try for visitors to Hue, offering a taste of the city's rich culture and history.

See Also

• Vietnamese cuisine
• Hue (city)
• Clam
• Fish sauce