Ca Linh Fish and River Hemp Flower Hot Pot (Lẩu cá linh bông điên điển)

Lẩu cá linh bông điên điển is a traditional dish originating from the Dong Thap province. This hot pot is made with a base of ca linh, a local freshwater fish, and river hemp flower called bong dien dien. If the fish is male, it’s simmered in the pot, and if it’s female, its roe is usually deep-fried.

The river hemp flower is usually blanched in order to get the most of its nutty and buttery flavor and crunchy texture. The broth usually consists of coconut water, selected seasonings, young tamarind, water lily (bong sung), yellow velvet leaf (keo neo), and either pork or chicken stock.

The hemp flower is blanched first, while the fish is added last to the hot pot. Fish sauce and hot chili peppers are welcome additions to this unique hot pot variety.