The 2024 International Food Festival: Harmony of Asian traditions
WVR - Two Ambassadors of Mongolia and Pakistan in Vietnam share insights with the World & Vietnam Report on national cuisines ahead of the 2024 International Food Festival.
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Reviving the Nomadic Spirit
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| Buuz and Khuushuur are popular dishes during Mongolian festivals, symbolizing warmth, hospitality and family bonds. (Source: Ingmar) |
According to Mongolian Ambassador to Vietnam Jigjee Sereejav, the Embassy will proudly showcase Buuz, Khuushuur, Mongolian milk tea and organic seabuckthorn juice. These dishes represent the heart of Mongolian culinary traditions. Buuz and Khuushuur are cherished staples during festive occasions, symbolizing warmth, hospitality, and family unity.
“Mongolian milk tea reflects our nomadic lifestyle and is an essential part of daily life, while seabuckthorn juice highlights the richness of Mongolia’s natural and organic produce. Together, these offerings encapsulate the harmony between tradition and nature that defines Mongolian cuisine”, Ambassador Jigjee Sereejav emphasized.
The Embassy has found immense joy in introducing Mongolian cuisine to the Vietnamese audience. During the preparation process, one significant advantage is the shared enthusiasm for cultural exchange, which fosters a deeper appreciation for Mongolian culinary heritage. However, sourcing authentic ingredients such as meat has been challenging. Despite this, the Embassy has made great efforts to ensure the dishes remain authentic and true to their roots.
Mongolian diplomat said, "After the festival, the Embassy plans to continue promoting Mongolian cuisine through cultural events. Additionally, we aim to introduce Mongolian organic products, such as meat, and seabuckthorn juice to the Vietnamese market, further strengthening the connection between our two countries".
Bridging Cultural Gaps
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| The food stall of the Pakistan Embassy at the 2022 International Food Festival. (Photo: Anh Son) |
The Embassy of Pakistan in Vietnam has been actively promoting Pakistani culture, aiming to bridge gaps between nations through art, music, dance, textiles, and cuisine.
As a nation rich in ethnic and religious diversity, each community in Pakistan has its distinct culinary preferences. Ambassador Kohdayar Marri shared that the Embassy will present three iconic dishes at the upcoming International Food Festival.
The first is beef chapli kabab, a specialty of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, originating from Peshawar. The second is mutton seekh kabab, a Mughlai dish made from finely ground lamb blended with onions, herbs, and spices, making it one of the most popular grilled dishes across Pakistan.
The third dish, tawa butter chicken masala, is a South Asian classic featuring marinated grilled chicken in a rich and flavorful creamy sauce, and it is also Ambassador Marri’s personal favorite.
The Embassy is also making efforts to promote every aspect of Pakistani culture, from its historical heritage to contemporary influences.
"We look forward to collaborating with other Pakistani restaurants and hosting more events at the Embassy, where people can connect, share ideas, and enjoy our unique cuisine," the Pakistani diplomat stated.
