Mọc, a traditional steamed dish from Quang Nam Province, holds a significant place in local cuisine. Originally served at family gatherings and ancestral ceremonies, steamed mọc reflects the essence of simplicity and the artistry of Quang Nam’s culinary traditions.
Mọc is crafted from minced meat—commonly pork, beef, chicken, or duck—blended with ingredients such as rice vermicelli, wood ear mushrooms, scallions, ginger leaves, turmeric, and chives. The mixture is expertly seasoned with fish sauce, salt, pepper, and eggs to elevate its flavor and texture.
To prepare the dish, banana leaves—softened over heat—are brushed with peanut oil to prevent sticking. The seasoned mixture is spooned onto the leaves, garnished with roasted peanuts, and wrapped tightly with strips of banana leaf. These parcels are steamed for approximately 30 minutes until fully cooked.
Upon unwrapping, an inviting aroma of steamed meat, herbs, and roasted peanuts fills the air. The dish offers a harmonious blend of textures, from the tender meat to the chewiness of vermicelli and the crunch of mushrooms. Traditionally, steamed mọc is served with crispy rice paper and complemented by local rice wine.
Steamed mọc remains a cornerstone of Quang Nam’s culinary identity, offering a nostalgic taste of the past and a connection to the region’s rich food heritage.
