The taste of connection

Fusion food refers to dishes prepared by blending traditional and modern culinary methods from various cultures to create unique variations that offer diners a novel experience. To better understand this fascinating culinary style, Master Chef Pham Tuan Hai shared his story of creativity and elevating Vietnamese cuisine with Da Nang Weekend.

Master Chef Pham Tuan Hai. Photo: Provided by the interviewee.

* How do you view the appeal of fusion cuisine in the modern culinary world ?

The practice of combining Vietnamese ingredients with foreign foods, such as Western dishes paired with fish sauce or tamarind sauce, has actually existed for a long time. However, in recent years, the constant changes in culinary trends and demands, coupled with strong cultural exchange between regions, have led to the continuous emergence and development of innovative dishes, making them a popular culinary form worldwide. Today, it is easy for diners to experience and enjoy the wonderful combination of flavors from across borders.

The elements that make up a fusion dish include the combination of ingredients and cooking methods, the way the dish is decorated and presented to be appealing, and the way it reflects the cultural characteristics of each region and country. It is precisely this boundless creativity that allows those who create fusion food to assert their own unique style and identity. Therefore, this genre is rapidly developing in the culinary world. In today's interconnected world, the human need to explore cuisine transcends all boundaries, gradually approaching a convergence and connection, not only in terms of taste but also in emotions and experiences. Fusion cuisine is therefore widely accepted and favored.

* In your opinion, what are the challenges of combining traditional and innovative cuisine?

- In the culinary world, innovating traditional dishes has never been easy. The biggest challenge comes from the chef. They must possess solid knowledge and skills, understanding the principles of combining various culinary cultures from around the world. Next is the finesse and flexibility in selecting and blending ingredients and spices, so that every creation develops on a solid foundation, resulting in a dish that is not only delicious in flavor and beautiful in appearance but also conveys the essence and unique appeal of each ingredient, from traditional to modern. Each creative dish is like a work of art, concealing within it a story of culture and the talent of the chef.

Fusion food demands meticulous attention to detail in the selection of ingredients, utilizing fresh, locally sourced, and sustainable ingredients. In Vietnam, to revitalize traditional dishes, each region has its own unique variations, depending on market demand, the chef's creativity, and the availability of local ingredients. Most importantly, the goal is to create a harmonious and refined flavor profile for each dish, attracting tourists from many countries to experience the local culture. Many Vietnamese chefs have dedicated time to traveling extensively, both domestically and internationally, to learn about and experience diverse culinary styles. This allows them to continuously innovate, apply new techniques, and combine local and regional ingredients to create unique, appealing dishes that showcase the distinctiveness of Vietnamese cuisine.

* "Creative cuisine contributes to promoting culture, tourism, and positioning the value of destinations." What are your thoughts on this?

- I completely agree. Dishes born from the fusion of many cultures are a special source of inspiration for diners and tourists who are passionate about experiences and exploration. The cuisine of our three regions is very diverse and rich. If we know how to utilize the unique local values, create harmonious links between regions, and at the same time absorb new trends in world cuisine, then not only the cuisine but also the culture, tourism, and local resources will be elevated. For example, in our collaboration with Da Nang city to organize the Five Elements Culinary Space at DIFF 2017, we created a large and unique playground for chefs to unleash their creativity, opening up a journey to awaken the senses and tell interesting stories about different cuisines. This event attracted the attention and participation of a large number of people and tourists, creating a very positive ripple effect. At that moment, I recognized the openness and potential for growth of various culinary and creative cultural forms in this city.

Compared to nearly a decade ago, Da Nang has made remarkable progress in all aspects, becoming a bright spot for festivals, events, and tourism. The development of innovative cuisine has become an essential need and a standard for establishing brand value. The interplay between tradition and modernity, between local identity and the influence of global trends, creates a vibrant culinary landscape. This is clearly evident in the recently published Michelin list of Da Nang's culinary establishments, which features many restaurants following this fusion trend. Some culinary models involve trained local people in serving customers, or use menus that "tell stories" about the origin, value of ingredients, or preparation processes to create unique experiences and emotions. This is an excellent way to promote culture, tourism, and bring local identity to a wider audience.

The role of the community and local culinary organizations in preserving and innovating traditional cuisine is also creating positive synergies. Many venues, festivals, and cultural exchange activities are becoming emotional bridges, introducing fusion cuisine to a wider audience and honoring chefs pursuing innovative culinary styles. At the same time, each diner is no longer simply an object of enjoyment but plays a co-creative role, accompanying and spreading the wonderful values ​​of local cuisine. With its outstanding potential and spirit of continuous innovation, creative culinary activities in Da Nang promise an inspiring journey, elevating the value of the destination and inviting the world to explore.

Thank you, sir!

Pham Tuan Hai is a culinary expert with over 30 years of experience in the industry, pioneering the creation of innovative dishes by combining and harmonizing various culinary styles, creating a unique signature in terms of flavor and beautiful presentation. However, the dishes prepared by this head chef still retain the soul of Vietnamese cuisine, subtly reflecting the rustic flavors of his homeland.

Yen Ha performed

Source: https://baodanang.vn/channel/5433/202506/huong-vi-cua-su-ket-noi-4010822/