Com Hen (rice with baby clams)

“Cơm hến” has evolved from a humble meal of the impoverished to a beloved dish among locals and tourists in Central Vietnam, particularly in Hue. This dish has earned acclaim for its exceptional flavors and straightforward preparation. The recipe is quite intricate, featuring ingredients such as chilled rice, clams, crispy pork fat, roasted peanuts, chili peppers, banana flowers, star fruit, green apples, mint, taro stems, fermented shrimp sauce, and the essential clam broth. The combination of these elements allows diners to experience a delightful medley of sweet, buttery, salty, sour, bitter, and intensely spicy flavors all at once.
Photo: daynauan.info.vn

The most captivating aspect of “cơm hến” is the unique interplay between the cold rice and the steaming clam broth. The assortment of fresh fruits and vegetables infuses each bowl with crispy, vibrant notes that help alleviate the heat of summer, while the warming clam broth brings comfort during the chilly winter months. It's hard to resist savoring a delicious bowl of “cơm hến” any time of the year.