Tamarind Broth with Rice Noodle: A Tangy Tien Giang Delicacy in My Tho

In the bustling riverside city of My Tho, Tien Giang, bún gỏi già (tamarind broth with rice noodle) is a culinary gem of the Mekong Delta, blending sweet, sour, and savory flavors in a single bowl. This rustic noodle dish, with its tamarind-infused broth, fresh shrimp, and vibrant herbs, captures the essence of Tien Giang’s riverine culture. A favorite at local eateries and markets, it’s a must-try for food lovers exploring My Tho’s vibrant food scene. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, offers curated foodie tours to enjoy this tangy delight while discovering Tien Giang’s eco-attractions. Start your culinary journey—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 dynamic hub, now encompasses the former Dong Thap Province, boosting its appeal as a culinary and cultural destination. Enhanced eco-friendly infrastructure, including electric boats and cycling paths, supports sustainable exploration of My Tho’s food markets and attractions, aligning with the “Green Delta” initiative.

With 17 years of expertise, Legend Travel Group is Southeast Asia’s premier sustainable tour operator, committed to showcasing Vietnam’s culinary and cultural treasures. Our Tien Giang tours pair eco-friendly transport—bicycles and electric boats—with authentic tastings of bún gỏi già, guided by local experts. Supporting My Tho’s farmers and vendors, 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 adventure!

Bún gỏi già, also known as bún gỏi dà in My Tho, is a distinctive Mekong Delta noodle soup, renowned for its tangy tamarind broth, chewy rice noodles, and fresh toppings like shrimp and pork. The dish’s unique flavor comes from a balance of fish sauce, tamarind, and aromatic herbs, reflecting Tien Giang’s abundant rivers and orchards. The region’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 year-round fresh ingredients. Enjoy it at My Tho’s markets or Thoi Son Island, paired with eco-tours for a true Mekong experience.

Ingredients (Serves 2–4)

• Rice noodles (bún, 400g, fresh or dried)

• Fresh shrimp (200g, peeled and deveined)

• Pork ribs or pork belly (200g, thinly sliced)

• Tamarind paste (2 tbsp)

• Fish sauce (3 tbsp)

• Fermented soybean paste (tương hột, 1 tbsp)

• Sugar (2 tsp)

• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)

• Shallots (2, minced)

• Dried shrimp (2 tbsp, soaked)

• Fresh herbs: chives, basil, banana flower, bean sprouts

• Roasted peanuts (2 tbsp, crushed)

• Chili (1, sliced, optional)

• Water or pork bone broth (1.5 liters)

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare Broth: In a pot, simmer pork ribs or belly in water for 1 hour to create a rich broth, skimming foam. Add dried shrimp, minced shallots, and garlic for depth.

2. Add Tamarind and Seasonings: Dissolve tamarind paste in 1/4 cup warm water, strain, and add to broth. Stir in fish sauce, fermented soybean paste, and sugar. Simmer for 10 minutes until tangy and balanced.

3. Cook Noodles and Proteins: Boil rice noodles until al dente, then drain. In a separate pot, boil shrimp and pork slices until cooked (2–3 minutes).

4. Assemble Bowl: Place noodles in bowls. Top with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, banana flower, chives, and basil. Ladle hot broth over the ingredients.

5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with roasted peanuts and chili (if using). Serve with a side of fish sauce mixed with lime juice and chili for dipping.

Tips: Use mắm cá linh (anchovy fish sauce) for authentic flavor; adjust tamarind for desired sourness. Fresh herbs are key to the dish’s vibrancy.

1. My Tho Night Market

A lively food hub on 30/4 Street, offering bún gỏi già at affordable stalls with a vibrant atmosphere.

• Cost: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND) per bowl.

• Hours: 6:00 PM–11:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Authentic street food, diverse Mekong dishes, local energy.

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

2. Thoi Son Island Eateries

Savor bún gỏi già at homestays or small restaurants on Thoi Son Island, made with local ingredients.

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

• Hours: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Fresh herbs, rustic setting, canal views.

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

3. Mekong Taste Restaurant

A riverside My Tho spot serving refined bún gỏi già with premium ingredients and scenic ambiance.

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

• Hours: 10:00 AM–9:00 PM daily.

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

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

4. Hủ Tiếu Bà Sẩm

A renowned My Tho eatery on Le Loi Street, famous for noodle dishes, including a stellar bún gỏi già.

• Cost: $2–$6 (50,000–150,000 VND) per bowl.

• Hours: 7:00 AM–8:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Traditional recipe, local favorite, cozy vibe.

• Tips: Try with extra chives; included in our Tien Giang Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

• Taste at Markets: Sample bún gỏi già at My Tho’s night market for a budget-friendly, authentic experience.

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

• Pair with Eco-Tours: Combine tastings with canal cruises, orchard visits, or cycling for a full Mekong adventure.

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

• Explore Local Flavors: Complement with Tien Giang specialties like grilled snakehead fish or chuối quết dừa.

• Tips:

  • Add a dash of chili to the dipping sauce for a spicy kick.

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

  • Visit in summer for vibrant markets and fresh herbs.

My Tho, Tien Giang’s culinary hub, is easily accessible:

• 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).

  • 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).

  • 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).

  • 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 My Tho Night Market as a landmark.

  • Included in our Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450) for seamless transfers.

• Dry Season (December–April): Ideal for market visits and outdoor dining; Tet (January–February) features festive food stalls.

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

• 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.

• Tamarind Broth with Rice Noodle: $1–$7 (25,000–175,000 VND) per bowl, 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): Grilled snakehead fish, bánh xèo 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., Minh Kieu Hotel): $20–$50/night (500,000–1,250,000 VND).

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

• Transport to My Tho:

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

  • Taxi from Ho Chi Minh City: $25–$40 (625,000–1,000,000 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; perfect for market dining.

  • Rainy Season: Bring waterproof gear; enjoy lush river views.

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

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me); save Hủ Tiếu Bà Sẩm 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 riverside spots.

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

• Tien Giang Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Savor bún gỏi già, grilled snakehead fish, and join coconut candy workshops. Includes eco-transfers, meals, guide.

• Thoi Son Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Enjoy bún gỏi già at homestays, canal cruises, and orchard visits. Includes boat transfers, snacks, guide.

• My Tho Cultural Tour ($60–$80/person): Taste bún gỏi già at the night market, visit Vinh Trang Pagoda, and enjoy “Don Ca Tai Tu” music. Includes eco-transfers, lunch, guide.

• Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450/person, 2–3 days): Explore 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!

Bún gỏi già, a tangy, soulful taste of Tien Giang’s Mekong Delta heritage, marries tamarind’s zesty kick with fresh shrimp and herbs. From My Tho Night Market’s bustling stalls to Thoi Son’s serene homestays, this noodle dish invites foodies to savor local traditions. Legend Travel Group’s My Tho Tours guide you to this culinary gem, ensuring a sustainable My Tho Travel experience while exploring My Tho’s waterways and culture. Plan your foodie adventure with our guide and book your eco-tour today!
Ready to dive into My Tho Night Market’s tangy delight? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and taste the Mekong Delta’s vibrant flavors!

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.