Central Vietnam’s coast, especially around Khánh Hòa, has many clear bays with sandy bottoms that suit shellfish. Spotted babylon and scallops are favourites both at home and in seafood restaurants.

Spotted babylon

Spotted babylon (Babylonia areolata) has a white shell with leopard-like brown spots, crunchy fragrant meat and a rich tail. It is widely farmed along the central coast. Favourite dishes are salt-and-chilli roasted, steamed with lemongrass or grilled with butter.

Scallops

Scallops have sweet, tender meat, with the white adductor muscle the most prized part. They are sold whole, on the half shell or as meat only, fresh or frozen. Popular dishes are grilled with spring-onion oil, grilled with cheese or stir-fried.

Choosing shellfish

  • Live: intact shells, and the animal responds when touched.
  • Frozen: an even glaze with no freezer burn.
  • Ask the specification: by piece or by kilo, whole or meat only.