Overview
If you had to pick just one souvenir to bring home from Hue, me xung would almost certainly be the top choice. This traditional candy has been closely associated with Hue for decades, so much so that many say a trip to Hue isn't complete without buying some me xung to take home.
Me xung is made primarily from malt syrup, sugar, roasted peanuts, and sesame seeds, cooked, pulled, and carefully cut into small chewy strips with a distinctive springy texture, coated on the outside with a layer of fragrant roasted sesame seeds.
When you take a bite, you'll notice the mild sweetness of the malt syrup blending with the nutty richness of peanuts and roasted sesame, creating a snack that's satisfying but never overly sweet β easy to enjoy for both adults and children alike.
Today, me xung has expanded well beyond the traditional version, with popular variations like ginger me xung, coconut me xung, black sesame me xung, and crispy me xung, catering to the increasingly diverse tastes of both local and international visitors.
Where to Eat, Prices & Tips
Me xung is available year-round at most specialty shops, mini-marts, and especially at Dong Ba Market, home to many long-standing and reputable me xung brands in Hue β a convenient stop to pick some up while touring the market.
In terms of price, me xung comes in a wide range depending on brand and packaging size, but overall it remains an affordable gift, allowing you to buy generous quantities to give to many people without breaking the bank.
When buying me xung, choose well-established, long-standing Hue brands to ensure authentic quality and flavor, and be sure to check the expiration date printed on the packaging, especially if buying in bulk for later use or as gifts for multiple people.
One convenient feature is that me xung is packaged compactly and can be stored for a long time without refrigeration, making it easy to carry in your luggage or ship by mail to friends and family far away.
Pro Tips & Memorable Experiences
A nice tip for enjoying me xung is to pair it with a hot cup of tea β the tea's slight bitterness helps balance and highlight the candy's rich, nutty sweetness, a traditional pairing that many Hue families still enjoy during conversations or when hosting guests.
If you get the chance, visit a traditional me xung workshop in Hue to see firsthand the skillful process of cooking, pulling, and cutting the candy by hand β a fascinating cultural experience that deepens your appreciation for this long-standing local craft.
For those mindful of sugar intake, some brands now offer lower-sugar versions or those made with sugar substitutes β simply ask the seller to help you choose the option that best suits your dietary needs.
More than just a sweet treat, me xung carries with it the culture and history of Hue, so be sure to set aside a bit of your shopping budget to pick up a few boxes as gifts β both delicious and meaningful.
Handy tips
- βPair with hot tea for the traditional Hue experience.
- βBuy from long-established brands for authentic quality.
- βNo refrigeration needed β perfect for travel and gifts.
