If you’re searching for the boldest and most authentic flavors of the Mekong Delta, Can Tho Hotpot, also known as Lẩu mắm, is a culinary experience you cannot miss. This rustic, flavor-packed dish showcases the soul of Southern Vietnam through a bubbling pot of fermented fish broth and a bounty of fresh vegetables and river delicacies.
What Is Lau Mam? 🐟
Lẩu mắm is a traditional Vietnamese hotpot with a savory broth made from fermented fish (mắm cá linh or mắm cá sặc), giving it a deep umami flavor and a uniquely pungent aroma. The broth is typically simmered with lemongrass, garlic, chili, and sometimes coconut water to balance the saltiness and create a rich, complex base.
Ingredients in a Typical Can Tho Hotpot 🥬🦐
Lẩu mắm is all about variety and freshness. It often includes:
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Assorted seafood: shrimp, squid, catfish, snails
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Pork belly or thinly sliced beef
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Seasonal vegetables: water lilies, morning glory, banana blossom, bitter herb, and eggplant
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Tofu and mushrooms
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Served with rice noodles (bún) or steamed rice
The ingredients are added to the hotpot at the table, cooked in real-time, and enjoyed communally.
Why You Should Try Lau Mam in Can Tho 🌿
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Local authenticity: Lau mam is a culinary symbol of the Mekong Delta, and Can Tho is its beating heart.
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Farm-to-table freshness: Ingredients are sourced from nearby rivers and gardens, ensuring peak flavor and texture.
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Cultural experience: Sharing a steaming pot with locals or friends offers insight into Southern hospitality and Vietnamese food culture.
Best Places to Try Lau Mam in Can Tho 🍴
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Lẩu Mắm Dạ Lý – A local favorite known for flavorful broth and generous portions.
📍 Address: 89 Đường 3 Tháng 2, Ninh Kiều District -
Quán Lẩu Mắm Sáu Hoài – A humble, family-run place serving authentic flavors passed down through generations.
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Can Tho Floating Market Food Tours – Some tours offer hotpot lunches featuring mắm broth cooked on boats!
Tips for First-Time Eaters 😋
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Embrace the aroma: The smell might be strong at first, but the taste is well worth it.
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Mix and match: Add ingredients in stages to enjoy different textures.
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Dip with care: Use local fish sauce or tamarind-based dipping sauces to elevate the flavors.
Discover Vietnam with Vietnam Treasure Team 🌏
At Vietnam Treasure, we help travelers explore the true heart of Vietnam through its cuisine, culture, and crafts. With every successful order placed on our platform, we dedicate part of our profits to helping underprivileged children in Vietnam’s mountainous regions.
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