Luke Nguyen, acclaimed owner and chef of the Sydney restaurant The Red Lantern, returns to the country of his heritage to take a culinary journey through the southern regions of Vietnam. Starting in Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Luke travels through the Mekong Delta, and north along the coast to the World Heritage city of Hoi An. Along the way he prepares dishes in locations that represent the real Vietnam, in all its chaotic vibrancy
In this episode of Luke Nguyen’s Vietnam, Luke explores the food and culture of Hue, home to the ruling Emperors of the 17th century in central Vietnam.
The Vietnamese island of Phu Quoc is well known for its production of fish sauce, and its peppercorn plantations. It’s an idyllic location and a relaxing change of pace for Luke in episode 4 of Luke’s Vietnam.
In episode 5 of “Luke’s Vietnam”, Luke reaches the beautiful beaches of the east coast, stopping in to visit relatives in Phan Thiet.
In the first episode, Luke explores the food and culture of Vietnam's largest city, Ho Chi Minh City.
In episode two of Luke Nguyen’s Vietnam, Luke spends time cooking with his extended family in Saigon.
Luke’s journey continues along the mighty Mekong River, the lifeblood for locals in this area of Vietnam, who rely on it for transport, trade, and most of all as a source of food.
Luke visits the town of Da Lat in the beautiful central highlands of Vietnam, Luke enjoys the cooler climate and the abundance of fresh produce on offer.
Luke Nguyen visits the beachside town of “Nha Trang” a coastal town abundant with fresh seafood.
Luke Nguyen visits “Quy Nhon” on the central costs of Vietnam and teachers local disabled children how to make fish cakes, and enjoys a vegetarian feast with local Monks.
Luke continues his journey in “Hoi An” where vibrant markets are bustling and magnificent produce is on offer for Luke to cook with, spoilt by choice, Luke makes the most of what the town has on offer and also journeys out of town on a food discovery tour
Luke travels to the historic town of “Hoi An” and tastes the wonderful delights of this beautiful town.
Continuing in Sapa, Luke ventures beyond the main town and visits the local villages where he delves into some rich local traditions.
Heading further north to Bac Ha, Luke visits the busy weekend tourist markets and explores the local surrounds, learning to make his own rice wine.
Aboard a large Vietnamese junk boat, Luke floats through the serene beauties of one of the world’s natural wonders, Ha Long Bay.
In this last episode of Luke Nguyen’s Vietnam, Luke immerses himself in Mai Chau, eating, drinking and dancing with the local white Thai people.
In Episode 2 of Luke Nguyen’s Vietnam, Luke travels to rural Vinh to explore the vibrant market lifestyle and prepare regional dishes for the local people.
Luke’s journey continues to the mysterious and serene Ninh Binh, and cooking snails, pork neck and goat in some of the most beautiful scenery Vietnam has to offer.
Luke reaches the bustling city of Hanoi to discover its old charm, strong French influence and a very vibrant street-food scene.
Luke ventures to greater Hanoi and learns how to make rice paper and pork terrine. He roasts a duck roadside and demonstrates a Vietnamese favourite, Pho Bo.
Luke leaves the hustle and bustle of Hanoi behind for the mystical mountains of Sapa to cook in the clouds.
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