Chả Nướng Chợ Gạo: A Savory Grilled Pork Cake from Tien Giang’s My Tho

In the heart of Tien Giang’s Chợ Gạo, just a short trip from My Tho, Chả Nướng Chợ Gạo is a beloved Mekong Delta delicacy, renowned for its aromatic, smoky pork flavor and crispy texture. This grilled pork cake, wrapped in rice paper with fresh herbs and dipped in tangy fish sauce, is a staple at local markets and festive gatherings, embodying the region’s rich culinary heritage. A must-try for foodies, it offers a taste of Tien Giang’s vibrant culture. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, curates foodie tours to enjoy this dish while exploring My Tho’s eco-attractions. Start your culinary adventure—book our tours via links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Administrative Note

Tien Giang Province, with My Tho as its bustling hub, now includes the former Dong Thap Province, enhancing its appeal as a culinary and cultural destination. Upgraded eco-friendly infrastructure, including cycling paths and electric boat networks, supports sustainable exploration of Chợ Gạo and My Tho’s food scenes, aligning with the “Green Delta” initiative.

With 17 years of expertise, Legend Travel Group is Southeast Asia’s premier sustainable tour operator, dedicated to showcasing Vietnam’s culinary and cultural treasures. Our Tien Giang tours blend eco-friendly transport—bicycles and electric boats—with authentic tastings of Chả Nướng Chợ Gạo, guided by local experts. Supporting Chợ Gạo’s farmers and artisans, we offer transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support. Book our tours via links on this page for a flavorful, eco-conscious journey!

Chả Nướng Chợ Gạo is a traditional grilled pork cake from Chợ Gạo, a key agricultural hub in Tien Giang, located 10 km east of My Tho along National Highway 50. Made with seasoned pork, duck eggs, and aromatic herbs, this dish is grilled in a banana leaf-lined pot, infusing it with a distinctive smoky flavor. Served with rice paper, fresh herbs, and a sweet-sour fish sauce dip, it’s a festive favorite during Tet and family gatherings. Tien Giang’s tropical climate—dry season (December–April, 25–34°C or 77–93.2°F) and rainy season (May–November, 22–30°C or 71.6–86°F)—ensures fresh ingredients year-round. Enjoy it at Chợ Gạo’s markets or My Tho’s eateries, paired with eco-tours for a true Mekong experience.

Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

• Pork shoulder (500g, finely minced or sliced thinly)

• Duck eggs (2, beaten)

• Shallots (2, minced)

• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)

• Fish sauce (2 tbsp)

• Sugar (1 tsp)

• Ground black pepper (1 tsp)

• Scallion oil (1 tbsp, optional)

• Banana leaves (2–3, cleaned)

• Accompaniments:

  • Rice paper (10 sheets)

  • Fresh herbs: lettuce, mint, cilantro, perilla

  • Pickled carrots (1/2 cup)

  • Cucumber (1, sliced)

• Dipping sauce:

  • Fish sauce (3 tbsp)

  • Lime juice (1 tbsp)

  • Sugar (2 tsp)

  • Water (3 tbsp)

  • Minced garlic (1 tsp)

  • Minced chili (1 tsp, optional)

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare Pork: Wash and boil pork shoulder until just cooked (about 10 minutes). Slice thinly or mince finely. Marinate with shallots, garlic, fish sauce, sugar, and pepper for 30 minutes.

2. Mix with Eggs: Combine marinated pork with beaten duck eggs, ensuring an even mixture.

3. Prepare Pot: Line a cast-iron pot or baking mold with banana leaves, lightly greased with oil. Pour in the pork-egg mixture and spread evenly. Brush a thin layer of egg yolk on top for a golden finish.

4. Grill: Grill over charcoal or in an oven at 180°C (350°F) for 25–30 minutes until the surface is dry and a skewer comes out clean. The banana leaves impart a smoky aroma.

5. Serve: Slice the grilled pork cake into bite-sized pieces. Serve with rice paper, herbs, pickled carrots, cucumber, and dipping sauce. Roll ingredients in rice paper and dip for a flavorful bite.

Tips: Use charcoal for authentic smokiness; ensure banana leaves are fresh to enhance aroma. For a modern twist, add a drizzle of scallion oil before serving.

1. Chợ Gạo Food Market

A vibrant market in Chợ Gạo town, offering freshly made Chả Nướng Chợ Gạo at local stalls.

• Cost: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND) per serving.

• Hours: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Authentic preparation, bustling market vibe, budget-friendly.

• Tips: Visit early for the freshest cakes; included in our Chợ Gạo Eco-Tour ($70–$90).

2. My Tho Night Market

A lively food hub on 30/4 Street, serving Chả Nướng Chợ Gạo alongside other Mekong specialties.

• Cost: $1–$4 (25,000–100,000 VND) per serving.

• Hours: 6:00 PM–11:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Vibrant atmosphere, diverse dishes, affordable.

• Tips: Arrive by 7:00 PM for freshest options; included in our My Tho Cultural Tour ($60–$80).

3. Mekong Taste Restaurant (My Tho)

A riverside eatery offering refined Chả Nướng Chợ Gạo with premium ingredients and scenic views.

• Cost: $3–$7 (75,000–175,000 VND) per serving.

• Hours: 10:00 AM–9:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Elegant presentation, riverfront seating, diverse menu.

• Tips: Reserve for sunset dining; included in our Tien Giang Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

4. Thoi Son Island Homestays

Enjoy homemade Chả Nướng Chợ Gạo at Thoi Son Island, crafted with local ingredients and hospitality.

• Cost: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND) per serving.

• Hours: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Rustic setting, fresh herbs, canal views.

• Tips: Pair with a boat tour; included in our Thoi Son Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

• Taste at Markets: Sample Chả Nướng Chợ Gạo at Chợ Gạo’s food market or My Tho’s night market for an authentic, budget-friendly experience.

• Join Cooking Workshops: Learn to make this dish in Chợ Gạo or My Tho, guided by local chefs ($5–$15 or 125,000–375,000 VND).

• Pair with Eco-Tours: Combine tastings with cycling through Chợ Gạo’s orchards, canal cruises, or visits to My Tho’s Vinh Trang Pagoda for a full Mekong adventure.

• Dine at Homestays: Enjoy homemade versions at Thoi Son homestays, paired with cultural exchanges.

• Explore Local Cuisine: Complement with Tien Giang specialties like Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho or bún gỏi già.

• Tips:

  • Request extra herbs and rice paper for wrapping to enhance flavors.

  • Book guided foodie tours for curated tastings; included in our eco-tours.

  • Visit during Tet for festive servings or summer for vibrant markets.

My Tho, Tien Giang’s hub, is the gateway to Chợ Gạo (10 km away):

• By Bus:

  • Ho Chi Minh City (Mien Tay Bus Station) to My Tho: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND, 1.5–2 hours, 70 km).

  • My Tho to Chợ Gạo: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND, 15–20 minutes).

  • Providers: Futa Bus (Tel: +84 1900 6067), Thanh Buoi.

• By Car/Taxi:

  • Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho: $25–$40 (625,000–1,000,000 VND, 1.5 hours).

  • My Tho to Chợ Gạo: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND, 15 minutes).

  • Providers: Mai Linh Taxi (+84 2773 686 868), Grab app.

• By Motorbike:

  • Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND, 1.5–2 hours).

  • My Tho to Chợ Gạo: 15–20 minutes.

  • Rent at Mekong Moto Rentals, HCMC (+84 938 456 789).

• Tips:

  • Book buses via VeXeRe or Baolau for convenience.

  • Use offline maps (Maps.me); save Chợ Gạo Food Market as a landmark.

  • Included in our Chợ Gạo Eco-Tour ($70–$90) for seamless transfers.

• Dry Season (December–April): Ideal for market visits and outdoor dining; Tet (January–February) features festive servings of Chả Nướng Chợ Gạo.

• Rainy Season (May–November): Lush scenery and vibrant markets; enjoy 10–20% tour discounts. August–October is perfect for food-focused visits.

• Tips: Book 3–4 weeks in advance for peak seasons; check AccuWeather for rainy season updates.

Pack for a sustainable foodie trip:

• Clothing: Lightweight attire for dry season; raincoat ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND) for rainy season.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat.

• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes; sandals for markets; waterproof shoes for rainy season.

• Travel Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, compact umbrella.

• Tech Gear: Smartphone for photos; portable charger; camera for food shots.

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for market buys, bamboo straw for sustainability.

Tip: Carry VND (50,000–200,000 notes) for small vendors; use a waterproof backpack in rainy season.

• Chả Nướng Chợ Gạo: $1–$7 (25,000–175,000 VND) per serving, depending on venue.

• Activities:

  • Cooking workshops: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

  • Boat tours to Thoi Son: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

  • Bicycle rental: $2–$4/day (50,000–100,000 VND).

• Dining (Other Dishes): Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho, bún gỏi già at eateries: $2–$8 (50,000–200,000 VND); drinks: $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).

• Accommodation (My Tho):

  • Homestays: $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND).

  • Hotels (e.g., Song Tien Hotel): $20–$50/night (500,000–1,250,000 VND).

  • Resorts: $80–$150/night (2,000,000–3,750,000 VND).

• Transport:

  • Bus from Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Taxi from My Tho to Chợ Gạo: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost:

• Budget: $15–$35 (bus, market meals, homestay).

• Mid-range: $35–$70 (guided tours, restaurant dining, hotel).

• Luxury: $100–$180 (resorts, private tours, upscale dining).

Tip: Use ATMs in My Tho for cash; carry small VND notes for markets.

• Book Early: Reserve tours via Legend Travel Group (WhatsApp: +84825862222) 3–4 weeks in advance, especially for Tet or summer.

• Seasonal Tips:

  • Dry Season: Pack sunscreen; ideal for market and orchard visits.

  • Rainy Season: Bring waterproof gear; enjoy lush scenery.

• Sustainability: Support local vendors; use eco-transport like bicycles or electric boats.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me); save Chợ Gạo Food Market as a landmark.

• Safety: Secure valuables at markets; respect vendor stalls.

• Cultural Respect: Greet vendors with “xin chào” (hello); tip servers $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Health: Stay hydrated ($0.50 or 12,500 VND per bottle); apply mosquito repellent at market spots.

Our eco-friendly tours showcase Tien Giang’s culinary and cultural highlights:

• Chợ Gạo Eco-Tour ($70–$90/person): Savor Chả Nướng Chợ Gạo, cycle through dragon fruit orchards, and visit My Tho’s markets. Includes transfers, meals, guide.

• Tien Giang Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Taste Chả Nướng Chợ Gạo, Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho, and join coconut candy workshops. Includes eco-transfers, meals, guide.

• My Tho Cultural Tour ($60–$80/person): Enjoy Chả Nướng Chợ Gạo at My Tho’s night market, visit Vinh Trang Pagoda, and experience “Don Ca Tai Tu” music. Includes eco-transfers, lunch, guide.

• Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450/person, 2–3 days): Explore Chợ Gạo, My Tho’s markets, Cai Be Floating Market, and homestays ($10–$25/night). Includes meals, activities, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and fees. Get 10% off for groups of 8+ or seasonal promotions. Book via links around this page!

Chả Nướng Chợ Gạo, a smoky, savory delight, captures the culinary soul of Chợ Gạo, blending grilled pork with fresh herbs and tangy sauce. From Chợ Gạo’s bustling markets to My Tho’s vibrant eateries, this dish invites foodies to savor Mekong Delta traditions. Legend Travel Group’s Tien Giang Tours guide you to this flavorful masterpiece, ensuring a sustainable Tien Giang Travel experience while exploring Chợ Gạo’s orchards and waterways. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-tour today!
Ready to taste Chả Nướng Chợ Gạo’s grilled pork masterpiece? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and dive into the Mekong Delta’s flavorful heart!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Source: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group.