Vietnamese cuisine is full of surprises that can tantalize the taste buds of tourists from all over the world. In addition to the well-known dishes such as pho, banh mi, and bun cha, each region also has its own specialties that are sure to captivate many diners. If you visit Phong Nha - Ke Bang, not only will you be awestruck by the majestic beauty of the cave, but you will also be enchanted by the unique flavor of “Cheo” salt, a typical dipping spice of this region.

Quang Binh is renowned not only for its delectable dishes such as Porridge Soup, Banh Loc, Banh Nam, Khoai Fish Hotpot, Minh Hoa Boi Rice, Grilled Chicken and Song Son Carp, but also for its special seasoning called "Salt". Tourists are also searching for a popular keyword called "Cheo" when visiting this place.

“Cheo’’ salt in Phong Nha - Quang Binh has a unique flavor made from a combination of rustic ingredients. It is versatile and can be used in most dishes, similar to Tay Ninh shrimp salt.

"Cheo" is a dish made by the local people of Phong Nha - Ke Bang, which involves dipping salt. The salt used in making cheo is made from simple and easily available ingredients, which give it the flavor of the surrounding mountains and forests. The main ingredients used in making cheo salt are salt, green chili, lime leaves, coriander leaves, wadi leaves, and doi seeds. Each family has its own secret method of preparing cheo salt that gives it a unique flavor.

The special flavor shouldn’t be missed

“Cheo” salt is a seasoning that contains the salty taste of salt, the spiciness of chili and pepper, the aroma of doi seeds, lime leaves, and coriander, as well as the sour taste of wadi leaves and lemon. When consumed, one can experience a unique culinary journey, as the blend of flavors is perfectly balanced. Cheo salt is commonly used as a dip for grilled dishes like chicken, pork, fish,… Moreover, Phong Nha is well-known for its grilled hill chicken served with “Cheo”  salt, which is a must-try delicacy for every tourist.

How to make “Cheo” Salt?

Visitors can easily make their own “Cheo” salt on site or as a souvenir. To make cheo salt, simply prepare the following ingredients:

•  Add 2 to 3 coriander leaves and 1 lime leaf.

•  Mix 1 teaspoon of granulated or fine salt and 1/2 teaspoon of refined sugar.

•  Add 1/2 teaspoon of seasoning powder (made from pork, shrimp, or fish). You can add MSG if desired.

•  Add 2 to 3 green chillies and a small branch of green pepper.

Firstly, add all the ingredients into a mortar. Then, use a manual pestle to mash and stab the mixture until it becomes smooth. In case you're running short on time, a blender can be used instead of manually grinding the mixture. However, by grinding it manually, the mixture has a richer and more distinctive flavor than using a blender.

 “Cheo” salt – a meaningful cuisine gift

“Cheo” salt is a versatile seasoning that can be used as a dip or given as a thoughtful gift to friends and family after your trip to Phong Nha. It is readily available for purchase in local markets, souvenir shops, and restaurants throughout Phong Nha and Dong Hoi city.

“Cheo” salt is a dipping seasoning that is simple yet rich in flavor, derived from the Phong Nha mountains and forests. It has become an essential component of the culinary culture of the region. If you happen to visit Phong Nha, be sure to try Cheo salt to experience the unique taste of this land.

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