Saigon’s Expat Hub Restaurant’s Cassava Revolution
Saigon, known today as Ho Chi Minh City, boasts a rich culinary landscape. Amongst its vibrant streets, the expat hub of Thao Dien now features an innovative blend of tradition and the contemporary. At the heart of this is Madame Lam, an eatery daring to reinvent with cassava.
Madame Lam: The Culinary Genius in Thao Dien
Madame Lam, elegantly positioned at 10 Tran Ngoc Dien Street, Thao Dien Ward, District 2, is not just a restaurant. It’s a testament to Chef Nhu Cuong’s passion. The standout? Cassava noodles.
History of Cassava Noodles
Ever heard of Quang Nam? This coastal province in central Vietnam isn’t just picturesque; it’s the birthplace of cassava noodles. Especially the Thuan An Village in Dong Phu Town, where the craft of cassava noodles is deeply rooted.
– Origins in Quang Nam
Cassava roots aren’t a modern discovery. The people of Quang Nam have cherished and enjoyed them for generations. The tradition resonates most strongly in Thuan An Village, a place once renowned for its cassava noodle crafting.
– Modern-day Rarity
Time, however, hasn’t been kind to this tradition. Chef Nhu Cuong remarks on the fading art of crafting these noodles. Today, even in Quang Nam, they’re becoming a rarity.
Walking into Madame Lam’s
– First Impressions
Upon entering Madame Lam, the dried cassava noodles and their raw roots proudly displayed on a wooden table greet guests. It’s a sight that speaks of heritage and innovation simultaneously.
– Cassava Noodles: A Closer Look
The texture and appearance of cassava noodles are striking. They sport a net-like look and are pressed into large, thin, square, or rectangular shapes. Unlike the soft noodles one might find in Vietnamese soups, these are dry, crispy, and distinct.
A Colorful Twist on Cassava Noodles
Traditionally, cassava noodles have an ivory-white hue. However, at Madame Lam, a dash of creativity has given birth to purple noodles (thanks to butterfly pea flowers and lime juice) and dark yellow ones infused with carrots.
The Art of Making Quality Cassava Noodles
Quality isn’t instant. These noodles require a sunny span of three days and three nights for thorough drying. Because of the labor-intensive nature, dishes featuring cassava noodles are seasonal, making each bite even more special.
Madame Lam’s Diverse Cassava Menu
From traditional to inventive, Madame Lam’s menu is a cassava lover’s dream.
– Traditional Cassava Noodle Soup
This soup is a beautiful mirror to Quang-style noodles. It boasts soft-boiled noodles, shrimp, pork belly, young ribs, and fresh baby spinach. And the broth? A rich, yellow hue derived from bone broth and flavored with turmeric.
– The Cassava Salad
Chef Nhu Cuong’s creativity shines again in a salad topped with banana flowers, carrots, cucumbers, herbs, and pan-fried shrimp.
– Reinventing Banh Xeo with Cassava
Traditionally made from rice flour, Madame Lam’s banh xeo gets a cassava twist. The result? Golden crispy pancakes filled with bean sprouts, mango slices, and a bounty of herbs.
Customer Reviews and Pricing
The culinary experience at Madame Lam isn’t just about food; it’s about memories. A diner remarked on the firm, chewy texture of the noodles and the refreshing absence of starchy sweetness. With prices ranging between VND159,000 – 179,000 ($6.70 – $7.50), it’s a gourmet treat.
Chef Nhu Cuong’s Global Vision
Madame Lam isn’t the end; it’s a beginning. Chef Nhu Cuong dreams of introducing cassava noodle dishes to palates worldwide. With his blend of tradition and innovation, the world’s in for a treat.
Conclusion
Madame Lam stands as a beacon of culinary innovation in Ho Chi Minh City. It is not just a restaurant but a bridge between the past and the future, showcasing the versatility and potential of cassava noodles. As the world becomes increasingly global, it’s heartwarming to see local traditions being cherished and reinvented for new audiences.
FAQs
- Where is Madame Lam located?
- At 10 Tran Ngoc Dien Street, Thao Dien Ward, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City.
- What makes cassava noodles at Madame Lam unique?
- Their net-like appearance and the creative color variations introduced by Chef Nhu Cuong.
- How are the colorful cassava noodles made?
- Purple noodles are made using butterfly pea flowers and lime juice, while the dark yellow variant is from carrots.
- What’s the price range for a meal at Madame Lam?
- A meal for two is priced between VND159,000 – 179,000 ($6.70 – $7.50).
- Are cassava noodles a staple dish at Madame Lam?
- Due to the labor-intensive process, cassava noodles are featured on a seasonal menu and served occasionally.
