“From Arancina to Bun Cha: A Cultural Fusion of Street Food”
The culinary event, “From Arancina to Bun Cha: A Cultural Fusion of Street Food,” offered a unique twist on the traditional Italian Cuisine Week in Vietnam. Held at Casa Italia in Hanoi until November 24th, the event celebrated the vibrant street food cultures of Italy and Vietnam, bringing a burst of flavor to the city. With a focus on the funkiest street food delights, the festival presented a rare opportunity to indulge in a world of culinary delights.
|
The culinary event, a fusion of cultures and flavors, captivated food enthusiasts. |
A true highlight of the festival was the diverse range of street delicacies. From the famous Pizza Fritta and Porchetta to the mouth-watering Pho rolls and Banh bot loc, it was a celebration of contrasting flavors. The Italian and Vietnamese restaurants of Hanoi showcased their talents, with well-known names serving up their takes on classic dishes. The event also shone a light on the sweet treats of Gelato and Vietnamese sweet soups, which rivaled the best Italian desserts.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Ambassador of Italy to Vietnam, Francesco Arcuri, reflected on the unique connection between the two countries’ culinary traditions. Despite their geographical distance, Vietnam and Italy share a passion for food that is deeply intertwined. Italian and Vietnamese cuisines both honor heritage, with Italian restaurants offering “grandma’s specialties” and Vietnamese menus featuring “mom’s recipes,” delivering a heartwarming taste of home. The dedication to fresh ingredients is a shared value, with Italian chefs and Vietnamese grandmothers and mothers alike prioritizing the very best produce.
|
A vibrant spread of Italian street food, a true taste of Italy in Hanoi. |
The event also featured a stellar lineup of speakers and culinary experts, including Hoang Tung, co-founder, and executive chef of renowned restaurants, Madame Binh, executive chef of Luk Lak Restaurant, and wine expert Tram Tran, among others. They shared their insights and celebrated the fusion of cultures that the event embodied.
Ngo Thanh Hoa, chef and owner of East by Ngo Thanh Hoa restaurant, expressed his delight at the rare opportunity to experience authentic Italian street food in Hanoi. He was particularly impressed by the Italian burger, a unique blend of flavors with its dill-infused meat.
The event also included mini-games and raffle draws, offering exclusive gifts and the chance to win round-trip tickets from Hanoi to Milan. Italian Cuisine Week, an annual global event since 2016, celebrates Italy’s culinary heritage and promotes its cultural values. This year’s theme in Vietnam, “Mediterranean Diet and Vegetarian Cuisine: Health and Tradition,” explored the country’s diverse culinary offerings through a series of events, including truffle mushroom showcases and cheese introductions, further enriching the culinary landscape.
Uncover the Secrets of Hoi An: A Guide to Vietnam’s Most Enchanting Town
The New Zealand Herald, in its online edition, has recently shone a spotlight on Hoi An, a captivating ancient town in Vietnam. Dubbed the ‘yellow town’, Hoi An enchants visitors with its vibrant tapestry of history and culture. The town’s allure lies in its unique blend of colorful traditions and enchanting charm, making it a must-visit destination, as the NZ Herald so eloquently described.