Vietnam’s beloved mực một nắng (sun-dried squid), a specialty of Phan Thiet, has officially earned a spot in the global culinary spotlight. On May 19, renowned food guide Taste Atlas updated its list of the “58 Best Squid Dishes in the World,” placing mực một nắng at number 20 with a score of 4.1 out of 5 stars.

Taste Atlas described the dish as “a delicacy made from fresh squid - usually cuttlefish or longfin squid - caught off the coast of Phan Thiet.” After cleaning, the squid is sun-dried for a single day under the region’s intense sunlight, preserving its natural sweetness, chewiness, and fresh flavor.

Though mực một nắng can be prepared in various ways, it is most famously grilled over charcoal. Taste Atlas advises: “Temperature control is key. Too much heat will burn the outside while leaving the inside raw.” Once grilled, the squid is sliced into bite-sized pieces and typically served with chili fish sauce or chili paste. A cold beer is recommended to complete the experience.

Also featured on the list is bún mắm, a rich fermented fish noodle soup from Soc Trang, ranked at number 26. Known for its deeply savory broth made from fermented fish paste, bún mắm is enhanced with toppings like prawns, squid, or crispy pork belly depending on regional variations.

The dish is traditionally enjoyed with an assortment of rustic greens such as shredded water spinach, lotus stems, bitter herbs, banana blossoms, water hyacinth, bean sprouts, and Vietnamese coriander - adding layers of flavor and a distinct Mekong Delta essence.

Founded in 2015, Taste Atlas is a global food map celebrating traditional dishes from around the world. According to its founder Matija Babić, the rankings are based on evaluations from food experts and culinary critics to ensure credibility and recognition.

Do An