When we think of wine, grapes come to mind immediately. They are the main ingredient for the most famous wine brands worldwide, including Vietnam’s own. But beyond their role in winemaking, grapes hold a special place in the daily lives of Vietnamese people. Loved for their delicious taste and rich nutrients, grapes come in a wide array of colors: black, blue, yellow, green, purple, and white. Whether eaten fresh or dried into raisins, grapes offer a delightful culinary experience.
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The Grape Craze
Imported grapes hold a special allure for Vietnamese consumers. Despite their high prices, which can reach hundreds of millions of dong, these divine and bizarre-colored imported varieties from countries like Australia, America, Japan, and Korea continue to captivate the taste buds of local consumers.
How to Enjoy Grapes
The peels of fruits such as apples, kiwis, pears, and grapes are packed with antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, and minerals that are beneficial for the body. Therefore, it is advisable not to peel grapes when eating them. However, make sure to wash them thoroughly to remove any pesticide residue. If you prefer not to eat the skin, you can easily peel off the outer layers by hand, revealing the crystal-clear and sweet flesh inside.
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Grape Cultivation in Vietnam
Grapes play a vital role in Vietnamese agriculture, particularly in provinces with the driest conditions, low humidity, and minimal rainfall. From the northern region of Binh Thuan to the southern region of Khanh Hoa, these favorable climates allow grape trees to thrive. Notably, in Ninh Thuan province, grapes have become an essential product, driving the local agriculture and economy.
Moreover, Lam Dong province, particularly Da Lat city, has successfully grown American grapes and seedless Korean grapes for the first time. Visitors exploring this cold land can experience the old wine cellars near the grape gardens, adding a touch of excitement to their journey.
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Health Benefits of Grapes
Research reveals that grapes are even better than aspirin at preventing blood clots. Beyond this remarkable finding, grapes also help reduce serum cholesterol levels, decrease platelet binding, and offer numerous cardiovascular and cerebrovascular benefits. Moreover, grapes contain glucose, a healthy sugar. Whether black or green, grapes are rich in vitamins that support weight loss and promote heart health. Women can incorporate this fruit into their daily routine for its weight loss and anti-aging properties.
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The Versatility of Grapes in Cuisine
Vietnamese locals have creatively used fresh grape varieties to produce wines with high yield and quality. French wines, known for their excellence, are made from two types of grapes: red and white. The choice of fresh and ripe grapes directly contributes to the wines’ superior quality.
Additionally, dried grapes, or raisins, are a natural sweet and appetizing specialty found in Vietnam. Visitors are consistently drawn to this delicacy whenever they explore the country. Fresh grapes can also be used in various desserts, such as juice, cocktails, candies, puddings, and jellies.
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In conclusion, Vietnam’s grape industry is thriving, offering a delightful range of flavors, nutritional benefits, and culinary delights. Whether enjoyed fresh, dried, or as part of various grape-based products, there is no shortage of ways to savor this versatile fruit. Embrace the wonders of Vietnam’s vineyards and join the grape craze today!
Read more about grapes from Rừng Cúc Phương.
