Nam Dinh: Nam Dinh province has long been famous for its specialty vegetable: ‘cu nieng’ (Machurian wild rice shoots, botanically classified as Zizania latifolia). Manchurian Wild Rice shoots are a source of vitamin C to strengthen the immune system, iron to develop the protein haemoglobin for oxygen transport through the bloodstream, calcium to build strong bones and teeth, and vitamin A to maintain healthy organ functioning. The roots are main ingredients in dishes such as egg or beef stir-fries, giving a mild, subtle sweet taste and crisp texture. The single harvest season of the root usually falls between the end of October to late November each year, which makes the root highly sought-after.

According to Vietnam News Agency, in Nam Dinh province, the largest cultivation area of wild rice roots is in Nghia An commune, Nam Truc district, with a total of more than 10 hectares and 100 households earning economic benefits from growing the plant. Farmers can earn an income of 194 – 222 million VND (7,676 – 8
,784 USD) per hectare of wild rice roots, an amount 3 to 5 times higher than traditional rice cultivation. Due to high demand and high value of the specialty plant, Nam Dinh province is encouraging local people to increase the plant’s cultivation area in the incoming years.