There’s one gastronomic factor that Western countries are jealous of the tropics, especially South-East Asian nations – sweet, exotic tropical fruits! If you are planning to take a vegan travel to tropical countries like Vietnam or Cambodia, you need to have a taste of these iconic fruits.
Durian
The king of the fruits! Known for its distinct smell and spiky outer cover, durians can be easily found at markets in Vietnam, Cambodia, or any Southeast Asian nation. A highly valuable fruit, the king of fruits highly contains sugar, Vitamin C, tryptophan, potassium, carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. There are lots of durian varieties in Vietnam and Cambodia, but we highly suggest to taste the iconic Durian Ri6 variety.
Mangosteen
Known as mang cut in Vietnamese or Mongkut in Khmer, mangosteen is one of the world’s most delicious and nutritious fruits. This purple gift is also called the queen of fruits. This fruit can be recognized for its semi-firm exterior and soft and delicate interior. When you taste the mangosteen’s goodness you’ll surely never forget its sweet and sour taste that will absolutely make you smile.
Dragon Fruit
Dragons might be an iconic mythological creature, but dragon fruits are iconic in its own right. If you walk around Vietnamese or Cambodian markets, it will be easy for you to find this red and spiky fruits due to its interesting shape. The taste? Sweet and crunchy! If you have an affinity with exotic fruits, this is the one for you.
Longan
We just talked about the dragon fruit, so now let’s put the spotlight on the dragon’s eye – the longan. Named after its shape that resembles an eye with a black mark in the middle, longans can be described as a brown-colored fruit shaped like a baby lychee. Longans can be eaten raw or dry, so when you visit Vietnamese or Cambodian marketplaces try both of them!
Rambutan
Known as Chom Chom locally, this red hairy fruit is a delight. Rambutans grow all over Southeast Asia and considered to be one of the region’s most iconic fruits. The fruit is a great source of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, phosphorus, iron, calcium, and Vitamin C. Some studies also say that rambutans have medicinal properties such as helping people lose weight, soften their skin, and improve their hair.
These fruits from Vietnam and Cambodia can be great ingredients for vegan cuisine. You can check the Vegan Culinary Cruises, to learn more about it.
Vegan Culinary Cruises & Travels 