1. What is special about Hoi An black sesame soup?
Black sesame soup, a must-try for anyone visiting Hoi An Ancient Town, is delicious and carries captivating stories about its name, appearance, nutritional value, and exceptional taste that draw people in.
1.1. Unique name and appearance
The origins of black sesame soup traced back to the Chinese community in Hoi An, where it was traditionally called “xi ma” or “chi ma phu.” “Chi ma” refers to black sesame seeds, while “phu” means to grind or crush, describing both the key ingredient and the preparation method.
Unlike typical Vietnamese desserts, which are often bright and colorful, “chi ma phu” stands out with its singular black hue. This distinct color comes from the glossy, fragrant black sesame seeds that give the soup its nutty and rich flavor.
1.2. Nutritious ingredients and distinctive flavor
The main ingredient of sweet black sesame soup is, of course, black sesame seeds. Still, it also includes local ingredients like arrowroot powder, sweet potato starch, herbs such as pennywort, and certain cooling medicinal herbs. As a result, it is not just a traditional dessert but also a nutritious dish with medicinal properties.
A perfect black sesame soup bowl has a smooth, thick consistency and a rich black color. While its monochromatic look might seem unappealing, one taste of its sweet, nutty flavor is enough to win over any skeptic.
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2. About the oldest black sesame soup eatery in Hoi An
In Hoi An, there is a legendary black sesame soup shop with a long history that no visitor should miss if they want to experience the most authentic version of this dish and learn its stories.
2.1. Cultural story
Tucked away on a quiet sidewalk of Nguyen Truong To Street in Hoi An lies the “xi ma” stall of the Thieu family, which has quietly become a cultural treasure of the ancient town.
From the 17th to 19th centuries, Hoi An saw a dynamic exchange of culture and cuisine between the Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and some Western nations. During that time, Mr. Ngo Thieu worked for a Chinese family in the old town’s food trade, where he learned the secrets of making black sesame soup.
Over the decades, Hoi An has changed significantly, but the Thieu family’s “xi ma” tradition, passed down through generations, remains unchanged, still served daily on that same street.
In 2019, the Hoi An People’s Committee officially recognized the Thieu family’s “xi ma” stall as a cultural heritage site, where visitors can not only taste the rich, thick black sesame sweet soup but also engage with the family and hear stories about the dish’s history.
2.2. Visitor guide
To enjoy this traditional dish, visitors can stop by the following locations:
- The “xi ma” stall: Opposite No. 108 Nguyen Truong To Street, Son Phong Ward, Hoi An City
- The cultural site to learn about how to make black sesame soup: No. 45/17, Tran Hung Dao Street, Minh An Ward, Hoi An City
From the Japanese Bridge in the heart of Hoi An’s ancient town, it is easy to reach both places:
- To get to the “xi ma” stall on Nguyen Truong To Street: Walk straight on Tran Phu Street, turn left onto Hai Ba Trung Street, go about 300 meters, and then turn right onto Tran Hung Dao Street. After about 270 meters, turn left onto Nguyen Truong To Street, and the destination will be on your right.
- To visit the cultural site: Follow the same directions, but continue along Tran Hung Dao Street to find the site on your right.
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3. Other places to enjoy black sesame soup in Hoi An
Besides the Thieu family’s historic stall, there are several other places where visitors can try “chi ma phu,” which is considered one of the best Hoi An street foods.
3.1. Co Chinh black sesame soup
- Address: No. 134, Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, Minh An Ward, Hoi An City
One popular spot is run by Ms. Chinh, a dedicated cook with years of experience crafting traditional desserts. Her meticulous selection of black sesame seeds, combined with natural ingredients like brown sugar and coconut milk, results in a smooth, sweet, and rich flavor. In addition to “chi ma phu,” Ms. Chinh also offers other local specialties such as corn sweet soup, lotus seed sweet soup, and various bean-based desserts, with prices ranging from 15,000 to 35,000 VND per bowl.
3.2. Co Hiep black sesame soup
- Address: No. 39, Le Loi Street, Minh An Ward, Hoi An City
Another highly recommended place is Ms. Hiep’s shop, known for its cozy, welcoming atmosphere and delicious, rich desserts at affordable prices (15,000 to 30,000 VND per bowl). From the carefully prepared “chi ma phu” to fragrant mung bean sweet soup and sweet corn dessert, everything is designed to satisfy lovers of sweet treats. Visitors can also chat with the friendly shop owners to learn more about local life and culture.
3.3. Ba Mu black sesame soup
- Address: No. 728, Hai Ba Trung Street, Minh An Ward, Hoi An City
Finally, Ba Mu black sesame soup in Hoi An is famous for its handmade desserts with bold flavors. Their signature “chi ma phu,” made from a family recipe, is wonderfully fragrant and delicately sweet, with prices starting at just 10,000 to 20,000 VND per bowl. The shop also offers a seasonal menu featuring treats like mung bean sweet soup and rice ball sweet soup with grilled pork filling.
Black sesame soup is a unique and flavorful dessert that perfectly captures the essence of Hoi An’s rich culinary heritage. Whether you are drawn to its nutty taste or its health benefits, this traditional dish offers an unforgettable experience. Be sure to visit the historic eateries in Hoi An to savor the authentic flavor and learn the stories behind this beloved local delicacy.
After exploring the cuisine of Hoi An, be sure to take some time to relax and have fun at VinWonders Nam Hoi An. This fantastic amusement park offers an exciting mix of thrilling rides, water adventures, cultural performances, and nature experiences.
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Moreover, staying at Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An is highly recommended to enjoy cultural experiences and indulge in top-notch services like the spa, swimming pools, and golf course.