Tiết Canh - Traditional Vietnamese Blood Pudding

Ingredients

• 500ml (2 cups) fresh animal blood (duck or pig) 500ml (2 cups) fresh animal blood (duck or pig)
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• Juice of 2 limes Juice of 2 limes
• 1 tablespoon chopped mint leaves 1 tablespoon chopped mint leaves
• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
• 1 red chili, finely chopped 1 red chili, finely chopped
• Fresh herbs, vegetables, and rice crackers for serving Fresh herbs, vegetables, and rice crackers for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 3g, 1g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the fresh animal blood, fish sauce, and lime juice. Mix well.
2. 2.
   Add the chopped mint leaves, cilantro, and red chili to the bowl. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined.
3. 3.
   Pour the mixture into individual serving bowls or a large serving dish.
4. 4.
   Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the mixture has set and achieved a pudding-like consistency.
5. 5.
   Serve Tiết Canh chilled, accompanied by fresh herbs, vegetables, and rice crackers.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Animal blood — Ensure that the animal blood is fresh and sourced from a reputable butcher or supplier. It is important to handle and store the blood properly to maintain its freshness and quality.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can add more chili to the mixture.
• Serve Tiết Canh with a variety of fresh herbs such as Thai basil, perilla leaves, and lettuce for a refreshing contrast.
• The dish pairs well with crispy rice crackers, which add a delightful crunch to each bite.
• For a more traditional presentation, serve Tiết Canh in individual small bowls.
• If fresh animal blood is not available, you can substitute it with cooked blood pudding or black pudding.

Serving advice

Tiết Canh is traditionally served as an appetizer or as part of a larger meal. It is best enjoyed chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together. Serve it with a variety of fresh herbs, vegetables, and rice crackers for a complete and satisfying culinary experience.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation of Tiết Canh, garnish the dish with a sprinkle of chopped mint leaves and a few slices of red chili. Serve it in individual bowls or a decorative serving dish to showcase its vibrant colors and unique texture.