The Unique Delights of Rau Bo Khai

Although its distinct ammonia-like scent may be off-putting for those trying it for the first time, rau bo khai, also known as fragrant vine or wild climbing spinach, is a cherished delicacy in Bac Kan Province. Food lovers frequently purchase it in bulk to indulge in its unique flavor.

Rau bo khai is commonly found in the northern mountainous regions of Vietnam, especially in Bac Kan and Lang Son. The variant from Ba Be District in Bac Kan is particularly valued, having earned a spot on Vietnam’s list of top 100 specialty dishes for 2020–2021.

This climbing vegetable looks like spinach but has rounder, fatter shoots akin to chayote tips. Local communities gather the tender leaves and young shoots to make various dishes such as boiled veggies, stir-fries, and soups.

While the plant grows throughout the year, spring is when it is at its peak freshness and softness. Harvesters cut sections of 40-50 cm, bundling them into half-kilogram or one-kilogram packages for sale at markets.

Ngoc Huyen, a restaurant owner in Ba Be District, explains that newcomers may be put off by the vegetable’s strong smell. However, once they try it, many develop a taste for its unique flavor.

“Rau bo khai is affordable, typically priced between 40,000 and 50,000 VND per kilogram (about $1.60–$2.10), and is simple to cook. After trimming the tough stems, the young leaves are washed and briefly blanched to lessen the aroma and soften the leaves,” she states.

The vegetable is often stir-fried with garlic, but in Vietnam’s northwest, it’s commonly enjoyed with eggs or lap xuong (Chinese sausage), resulting in unique regional dishes.

To keep the vegetable crunchy and retain its bright green color, chefs typically blanch it in hot water and then plunge it into ice water before stir-frying, ensuring not to overcook it to prevent toughness.

Rau bo khai is not only a tasty addition to meals but also promotes health. It is known for revitalizing those who feel tired or have low appetites.

In traditional medicine, rau bo khai is credited with various health benefits, including supporting liver and kidney function, alleviating rheumatism, lowering fevers, and aiding digestive issues. It is also thought to help with kidney stones and viral hepatitis.