Cha Ca: the taste of Hanoi in every bite

Cha Ca is a traditional Vietnamese dish, originating in Hanoi, famous for its unique preparation and presentation. This dish consists of fish (usually white fish such as cod or tilapia) that is marinated with turmeric, garlic and ginger, then grilled or fried.

It has its roots in the old Cha Ca district in Hanoi, where food vendors began to specialize in this dish. Its popularity is believed to have been maintained for more than a century. It is considered a symbol of the gastronomy of the Vietnamese capital.

It is typically served in a hot pan or on a grill, often accompanied by rice noodles, fresh herbs (such as cilantro, mint, and basil), roasted peanuts, and fish sauce. It may also include bean sprouts and cucumber slices.

Diners take some cooked fish and place it on top of rice noodles, adding fresh herbs and peanuts to taste. It is often eaten with chopsticks and may be accompanied by fish sauce for an extra touch of flavor.

How to prepare Cha Ca at home

Ingredients

For the fish:

• 500 g white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, etc.)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small piece of ginger, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

At your service:

• Rice noodles
• Fresh herbs (cilantro, mint, basil)
• Roasted peanuts, chopped
• Soybean sprouts
• Cucumber slices
• Fish sauce (optional)

1. Marinate the fish:
   • In a bowl, mix the turmeric, garlic, ginger and fish sauce. Add the fish fillets and make sure they are well coated with the marinade. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
2. Cooking the fish:
   • Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the marinated fish and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden and cooked through.
3. Cooking the noodles:
   • While the fish is cooking, prepare the rice noodles according to the package directions. They are usually boiled for a few minutes and then drained.
4. Serve:
   • Place a portion of rice noodles on the plate and top with the hot fish. Garnish with fresh herbs, chopped peanuts, bean sprouts and cucumber slices.
5. Enjoy:
   • You can add a little fish sauce to taste. Eat the Cha Ca using chopsticks and enjoy the fresh and vibrant flavors.