What are the specialties of Ninh Binh? What should you buy as souvenirs?

Ninh Binh is not only famous for its picturesque landscapes, but it is also a region rich in culinary traditions, preserving the unique flavors of the Northern Delta. The specialties of Ninh Binh are not only attractive due to their unique preparation but also make excellent gifts to bring back after every trip.

If you're wondering, What are the specialties of Ninh Binh? What should I buy as souvenirs?, let's explore the top 8 prominent specialties below to find a meaningful and authentic gift from this ancient land!

In addition to famous scenic spots, Ninh Binh also attracts many visitors with its unique specialties.

1. Overview of Ninh Binh

1.1 Where is Ninh Binh?

Ninh Binh is a province located in the northern part of Vietnam, about 90 km south of Hanoi's city center. Not only famous for its stunning natural landscapes like limestone mountains, rivers, and caves, Ninh Binh also has significant historical value as it was the first capital of the Dai Co Viet state under the reign of Dinh Bo Linh.

1.2 Best time to visit Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is beautiful year-round, but the best times to visit are from March to May and from September to November.

Spring (March - April): The weather is cool, and nature is lush, perfect for boat trips exploring Trang An, Tam Coc, or visiting Bai Dinh Pagoda.
Late May - Early June: This is the rice harvesting season in Tam Coc. The golden rice fields along the Ngo Dong River, framed by limestone mountains, create a breathtaking natural scene.
Autumn (September - November): The weather is dry, with clear skies, making it ideal for hiking up Hang Mua, walking around historic sites, taking photos, and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.

From July to August, there is heavy rainfall that can interfere with travel, while December to February is cold with frequent fog, which may reduce visibility during sightseeing.

The best time to witness the golden rice fields along the Ngo Dong River in Ninh Binh is from late May to early June.

2. What are Ninh Binh's specialties?

2.1 Ninh Binh Fried Rice (Com Chay Ninh Binh)

When talking about Ninh Binh's specialties, fried rice (Com Chay) is definitely a must-try. This "national dish" is made from yellow flower glutinous rice, fried until golden and crispy, then topped with rich sauce or ground pork and crispy fried onions. The crispy rice, lightly fatty with a fragrant roasted rice flavor, creates a distinctive taste that everyone will remember after trying it.

2.2 Gia Vien Shrimp Paste (Mam Tep Gia Vien)

With its rich country flavor, Gia Vien shrimp paste is an indispensable seasoning in the meals of Ninh Binh residents. The paste is made from fresh shrimp fermented naturally, combined with garlic, chili, and galangal, creating a spicy and salty flavor that is delicious when served with steamed rice or dipped in boiled vegetables. If you visit Ninh Binh, don't forget to try Gia Vien shrimp paste—one of the specialties you should bring home as a gift.

2.3 Kim Son Rice Wine (Ruou Nep Kim Son)

What is the must-try specialty of Ninh Binh? The answer is Kim Son rice wine, a famous drink from the ancient capital region. Made from yellow flower glutinous rice combined with forest herbs, and especially available in a version distilled with 36 rare medicinal herbs, this wine has a mild fragrance, a sweet taste, and a warm aftertaste. This is a meaningful gift, perfect for giving to the elderly or bringing home during special occasions.

2.4 Yen Mac Fermented Pork (Nem Chua Yen Mac)

If you're wondering what Ninh Binh specialties to bring home, then Yen Mac fermented pork (Nem Chua Yen Mac) is definitely an option you shouldn't miss. Unlike the fermented pork from Thanh Hoa or the south, Yen Mac's version is made from fresh pork, crispy skin, mixed with roasted rice powder and traditional spices. The pork is wrapped in guava leaves and naturally fermented, resulting in a mild sour taste that is easy to eat. When paired with fresh garlic, fig leaves, or herbs, and dipped in sweet and sour fish sauce, you will fully experience the unique flavor of Ninh Binh.

2.5 Dried Goat Meat with Garlic (Thit De Kho Uop Toi)

Goat meat is known as the "number one specialty" of Ninh Binh, but to bring it home as a gift, dried goat meat with garlic is the perfect choice. The meat is marinated with rich seasoning, dried to a perfect texture that still retains its softness, natural sweetness, and enticing aroma. Compact, easy to store, and portable, this Ninh Binh specialty is perfect for gifts or enjoying with friends and family.

After exploring the picturesque beauty of Trang An, don't forget to try dried goat meat with garlic—a delicious and irresistible Ninh Binh specialty.

2.6 Gao Fruit (Qua Gao)

Gao fruit is a wild fruit commonly used by Ninh Binh residents to make sour soup, marinate in alcohol, or make jams. With its mild sour taste, rich in Vitamin C and minerals, gao fruit not only helps detoxify and cool the body but also provides a unique and unforgettable flavor. For those curious about what unusual specialties Ninh Binh has, gao fruit is certainly an interesting suggestion.

2.7 Crab Paste (Mam Cay)

Crab paste is one of Ninh Binh's unique specialties, known for its strong aroma, but the more you eat, the more addictive it becomes. This paste is made from the small crab species (cay), mashed and mixed with salt, then fermented naturally in traditional earthenware jars. Thanks to its meticulous preparation, Ninh Binh crab paste has a distinctive fragrance and is perfect for dipping in boiled vegetables, fermented eggplant, or mixing with dipping sauce for noodles or boiled meat, offering a rich and unforgettable taste.

2.8 Nho Quan Fermented Wine (Ruou Can Nho Quan)

Deeply rooted in the culture of the Muong people, Nho Quan fermented wine is made from corn, cassava, and glutinous rice combined with traditional forest herbs. The strong and rustic flavor of this wine, characteristic of the mountains and forests, has captivated many visitors from near and far. This wine is often chosen as a meaningful gift, especially for friends or during family gatherings. It's also one of the top recommendations when asked, "What are the specialties of Ninh Binh to buy as a gift?"

3. Where to buy Ninh Binh's specialties?

It’s not difficult to find delicious and high-quality Ninh Binh specialties if you know the right places to visit. Here are some local spots highly recommended by locals and tourists:

Van Beo Store: Known for traditional products such as crispy fried rice, fragrant Kim Son rice wine, and flavorful Yen Mac fermented pork, Van Beo Store is a popular destination for tourists looking to buy Ninh Binh specialties as souvenirs.
Rong Market (Cho Rong Ninh Binh): Located in Van Giang ward, Rong Market is one of the busiest central markets in the city. Here, visitors can easily find various local specialties such as Gia Vien shrimp paste, Kim Son rice wine, fermented pork, or dried goat meat at reasonable prices and with plenty of options.
Van Giang Street: This street runs along major roads like Le Hong Phong and Tran Hung Dao, beside the Van River. In addition to stores selling wood crafts, many stalls here offer distinctive local specialties, making it a convenient place for sightseeing and shopping.

See more: Latest Self-guided Travel Experience in Ninh Binh

"Snag" a 0 VND flight ticket from Vietjet to explore the beauty and specialties of Ninh Binh today!

We hope the suggestions above have helped you answer the question “What are the specialties of Ninh Binh?” and easily choose what to buy from Ninh Binh as a gift for your friends and family after the trip. If you’re planning to explore the ancient land, don’t forget to “hunt” a 0 VND flight ticket from Vietjet during the golden hours of 12 PM - 2 PM every day to save on travel costs. What are you waiting for? Plan your trip to discover the beauty and specialties of Ninh Binh today! Check details here!

Stay updated on the latest flight prices from Vietjet at the following official information channels: