Quang Ninh is not only renowned for the majestic Halong Bay and expansive white-sand beaches, but it also captivates travelers with a rich and diverse culinary heritage centered around seafood. Among these, the “Ruốc” – an iconic delicacy of the Quang Ninh coastal region – is an absolute must-try.
Read more: Halong Specialties: What to Eat? What to Buy?
Introduction to Ruốc Lỗ (Tiny Web-Footed Octopus)
Ruốc lỗ, also known as long-legged ruốc or mini octopus, scientifically named Octopus dollfusi, is a species of “micro-squid” belonging to the octopus family (Octopodidae). While present in many coastal regions across Vietnam, the ruốc lỗ found in Quang Ninh’s waters boasts exceptionally high nutritional value. This is because the local seawater features a lower salinity level, which, combined with an abundant natural food source, yields specimens with remarkably firm, sweet, aromatic, and deeply flavorful flesh.
Ruốc lỗ, the celebrated specialty of Quang Ninh
Possessing a petite appearance with a size only slightly larger than a thumb, a round head resembling a guava, and long tentacles exceeding 20 centimeters in larger specimens, they are referred to as “long-legged ruốc” to distinguish them from their short-legged counterparts. Because they typically conceal themselves beneath the mud in coastal mangrove flats and tidal marshes, living timidly right beside their burrow openings, locals call them “ruốc lỗ” (hole-dwelling ruốc).
Catching long-legged ruốc requires specialized techniques that demand considerable finesse and experience. One common method involves using specialized funnel nets (lồng bát quái) or hunting for them in tiny coastal holes at night with a flashlight. Locals refer to this craft as “đi ngòi” (hole hunting) or “ruốc soi” (spotlight ruốc fishing). During this nocturnal pursuit, fishers carry lanterns, patiently illuminating each tiny burrow. The moment a ruốc is spotted, they must move with swift precision, or the creature will instantly vanish back into hiding. Due to their burrowing habits and diminutive size, harvesting long-legged ruốc is vastly more challenging than catching ordinary seafood.
Ruốc lỗ are gonochoric, meaning they have distinct male and female sexes. There are two ways to differentiate them:
- Observing the tentacles: The male features a modified tentacle (the third tentacle on the right) adapted into a copulatory organ, which is shorter and spoon-shaped. Consequently, upon close inspection, you will notice that the male’s tentacles are asymmetrical, unlike those of the female.
- Checking the head: During the breeding season, female ruốc carry eggs in their heads. When gently pressed, the white color of the eggs becomes visible, whereas males lack this characteristic.
How to Select Premium Ruốc Lỗ
The peak season for ruốc spans from the 7th to the 11th lunar month. In the 7th lunar month, the ruốc are still young yet exceptionally tender, sweet, and flavorful. Around the 9th and 10th lunar months, they become rich and succulent; females carry abundant roe—locally referred to as “ruốc cơm xôi” (sticky rice ruốc)—and are considered more delectable than males. True gourmets often enjoy them “chuyên đề,” meaning they savor them exclusively as a drinking delicacy paired with fine liquor.
Long-legged ruốc (right) offers superior flavor and nutrition compared to short-legged ruốc (left)
Additionally, when selecting ruốc, it is essential to distinguish between the long-legged and short-legged varieties. Short-legged ruốc tend to be mealy and lack the exquisite sweetness and aroma of the long-legged variety. To choose a premium specimen, look for one with evenly proportioned tentacles; avoid lighter-colored ruốc, as this indicates they have been kept too long and are no longer fresh. Opt for those with a jet-black, glossy appearance that feel slimy to the touch, which signifies vitality and superior flavor. The price of ruốc lỗ is relatively high and fluctuates depending on the season and size. Currently in Quang Ninh, they are retailed at:
- Retail price: Ranging from 700,000 to 800,000 VND/kg (6-10 pieces) at restaurants and seafood markets.
- Wholesale price: Approximately 600,000 VND/kg (6-10 pieces).
Exquisite Delicacies Prepared from Ruốc
Ruốc boiled with guava leaves is a traditional delicacy of Quang Ninh
Following the salt scrub, the ruốc are placed in a pot to be boiled, often accompanied by sour tamarind, guava leaves, and lemongrass stalks. Lemongrass imparts a fragrant aroma, softens the meat, and neutralizes any fishy odor. In the past, locals utilized mangrove leaves (lá vẹt, lá sú), but eventually transitioned to guava leaves because they are easily accessible and their mild astringency firms and crisps the ruốc. Both varieties complement ruốc lỗ wonderfully.
One vital note when boiling ruốc lỗ is to avoid overcooking; they should be removed the moment they are just done. At this stage, the ruốc turn a delicate pink, and their tentacles curl tightly around the chest into small rings, resembling a unique floral blossom. Once cooked, they are transferred to a plate and served piping hot alongside star fruit slices and aromatic herbs. The quintessential dipping accompaniment is sweet-and-sour shrimp paste enhanced with sugar, chili, and lime, which delivers an incomparably crisp and sweet sensation. Savoring ruốc lỗ alongside fine liquor is a singular culinary experience unique to the land of Quang Ninh. Furthermore, ruốc lỗ can also be prepared into other enticing dishes such as stir-fried ruốc with lemongrass and chili, or plain boiled ruốc…
A Connoisseur’s Guide to Experiencing Quang Ninh Ruốc
Having gained a thorough understanding of the characteristics and value of Quang Ninh ruốc, many travelers will undoubtedly eager to taste this legendary specialty for themselves. Below are several recommended locations and essential tips to ensure a flawless and authentic gastronomic journey in the Mining Land.
To savor Quang Ninh ruốc, you have a wealth of options ranging from rustic, local eateries to upscale restaurants. In Halong City, several familiar spots frequented by locals and discerning travelers alike include the Fishing Village Culinary Restaurant (Quán ẩm thực làng chài) located at No. 1 Lê Thánh Tông Street, Hồng Gai Ward, as well as seafood dining spots clustered near the Bạch Đằng Theater area. Venture a little further to the Hoành Bồ area (now integrated into Halong City), which is likewise renowned for venues serving exceptionally fresh ruốc lỗ, including local favorites such as “Chị Mỳ” restaurant. Additionally, should you wish to handpick the freshest specimens and have them prepared to your exact preference, the major seafood markets in Quang Ninh are absolute must-visits. There, you can purchase live ruốc and arrange for nearby market stalls to cook them on the spot.
For travelers seeking an elevated fine-dining experience, enjoying ruốc aboard a luxury cruise exploring Halong Bay is an exceptionally rewarding option. Today, numerous high-end yachts have incorporated local delicacies, including ruốc, into their menus to enrich the guest experience. A prominent and exceptional example is the 5-star Sea Octopus Cruise. True to its name, Sea Octopus specifically honors the ruốc (mini octopus) as a culinary pinnacle of the Bay. This yacht makes a lasting impression by offering up to five distinct dishes crafted from ruốc, blending diverse gastronomic styles from Japan, South Korea, and traditional Vietnam, all expertly executed by a team of professional chefs. Savoring this legendary delicacy within a luxurious setting amidst the breathtaking majesty of a natural world heritage site will undoubtedly remain an unforgettable memory.
The ruốc serves as the signature emblem of the Sea Octopus cruise
