Red jellyfish – a signature delicacy of the Hai Phong coastal region – has now become a new sensation, captivating Hanoi's food connoisseurs every summer. This unique dish attracts many diners not only because of its novel flavor but also because of its incredibly interesting way of enjoying it.

Unlike other types of jellyfish, red jellyfish are only available seasonally, from the 25th or 26th of January to May of the lunar calendar each year. Therefore, enjoying red jellyfish is a special experience and something many people look forward to.

After being caught, red jellyfish are immediately soaked in water with kumquat peel to maintain their crispness, natural red color, and remove the fishy taste. This dish is not prepared as a stir-fry or salad, but is enjoyed in a truly unique way.

How to properly enjoy red jellyfish

Red jellyfish is served with grilled turmeric beans, thinly sliced ​​coconut, perilla leaves, mint, and dipped in shrimp paste. The proper way to eat it is to take a few perilla and mint leaves, pick up pieces of tofu, coconut, and jellyfish, roll them up, and dip them into a bowl of shrimp paste mixed with chili and lime.

This seemingly simple combination creates an incredibly unique flavor. The crunchy, cool jellyfish blends with the nutty taste of peanuts, the sweet and refreshing flavor of coconut, the spicy kick of chili, the tangy sourness of kumquat, and the rich taste of shrimp paste, creating an unforgettable culinary experience.

Of course, not everyone likes red jellyfish because everyone has different tastes. However, it's undeniable that red jellyfish has become a "craze," attracting many people, especially young people in Hanoi. Every jellyfish season, restaurants are packed with people enjoying this unique dish.

Listing the legendary red jellyfish farms in Hanoi.

Red Jellyfish 70 Hang Chieu

This place is known as the "red jellyfish paradise" and attracts a large number of visitors. The jellyfish here are highly rated for their quality, crunchy texture, and are served with side dishes such as fried tofu, grated coconut, herbs, and especially the delicious shrimp paste dipping sauce. However, due to its immense popularity, the place is often fully booked, and diners have to wait quite a long time.

Red jellyfish on Hoè Nhai slope

Located in a spacious and airy setting, Hoè Nhai red jellyfish restaurant is an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy this dish in a comfortable atmosphere. The quality of the jellyfish and accompanying dishes here is comparable to other places; however, due to less promotion on social media, the number of customers is not too large.

Red jellyfish in Thanh Ha alley

Also a long-standing and well-known red jellyfish spot in Hanoi, Thanh Ha Alley's red jellyfish stall, while not as crowded as Hang Chieu Street, still attracts a steady stream of customers. The jellyfish here is meticulously prepared, ensuring crispness and freshness. The shrimp paste dipping sauce is also perfectly seasoned.

Red Jellyfish 16B Thanh Street

This is a small jellyfish restaurant with a simple, nostalgic atmosphere. The jellyfish here are highly rated for their freshness and reasonable prices. The restaurant is usually less crowded than other places, making it suitable for those seeking peace and quiet.

Things to note when eating red jellyfish:

Red jellyfish are usually sold by the serving, with prices ranging from 30,000 to 35,000 VND per serving.

Some places selling red jellyfish don't have parking, so you need to find suitable parking.

Jellyfish is eaten raw and served with shrimp paste, so those with digestive problems should think carefully before trying it.

Advice:

It's best to eat jellyfish during off-peak hours to avoid long waits.

You can request to adjust the seasoning in the shrimp paste according to your personal preference.

Enjoying red jellyfish with friends or family adds extra fun.

Ha Mai Trinh - Compiled