Connecting through flavor: HUTECH and Kagawa Nutrition University students explore Vietnamese-Japanese cuisine

22/02/2025

To provide students from both countries with an opportunity to explore the rich diversity of Vietnamese and Japanese cuisine, the Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality Management at Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HUTECH) partnered with Kagawa Nutrition University (Japan) to host a vibrant cultural and culinary exchange on February 21.

In the opening remarks, Mr. Tang Thong Nhan, Vice Dean of the Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality Management, and Dr. Ha Minh Tuan, Vice Director of the Vietnam - Japan Institute of Technology (VJIT), emphasized that this event was more than just a chance to learn about food. It was an opportunity for students to connect, exchange cultural insights, and gain hands-on experiences that deepen their understanding of each other’s traditions, lifestyles, and culinary values. They expressed their hope that the students would leave with unforgettable experiences and a greater appreciation for both Vietnamese and Japanese cultures.

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Connecting through flavor: HUTECH and Kagawa Nutrition University students explore Vietnamese-Japanese cuisine 20

Mr. Tang Thong Nhan and Dr. Ha Minh Tuan hope students will have a memorable experience

The Kagawa delegation, led by Associate Professors Ms. Kumi Eto and Ms. Miwa Takashima, included ten female students from the Department of Culture, Food, and Nutrition. During the event, they gained an overview of Vietnam’s geography and cultural diversity. With its long, narrow shape stretching from north to south, Vietnam boasts a cuisine deeply influenced by regional characteristics—from Hanoi’s flavorful “bún chả” (grilled pork with vermicelli) and Central Vietnam’s “bánh xèo” (crispy pancake) to Saigon’s signature “cơm tấm” (broken rice). This diversity adds to the richness and uniqueness of Vietnamese gastronomy.

Meanwhile, HUTECH students had the chance to explore Japanese cuisine through engaging presentations by Kagawa students. They introduced signature dishes such as Hot Pot, Daifuku, and Nerikari, explaining their ingredients, preparation methods, and cultural significance. The presentations also highlighted creative variations of these dishes, giving HUTECH students deeper insight into the artistry and precision of Japanese cooking.

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Connecting through flavor: HUTECH and Kagawa Nutrition University students explore Vietnamese-Japanese cuisine 53

The female students from Kagawa enthusiastically participated in engaging activities with HUTECH students

As part of the event, Kagawa students also had the opportunity to try their hand at preparing two traditional Vietnamese dishes: “nem cua bể” (crab spring rolls) and “chè thốt nốt” (palmyra palm sweet soup). Under the guidance of Chef Tran Le Thanh Thien, a lecturer from the Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality Management, they actively participated in every step, from preparing ingredients like wood ear mushrooms, onions, and crab meat to stir-frying the filling, wrapping the rolls, and frying them to golden perfection. For the sweet soup, they learned how to cook tapioca pearls, mix coconut milk, and balance the flavors for a harmonious taste. Beyond learning cooking techniques, the experience gave them a deeper appreciation of Vietnamese cuisine’s delicacy and craftsmanship, making the exchange even more engaging and meaningful.

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The Kagawa delegation enjoyed the hands-on experience of preparing Vietnamese dishes

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Connecting through flavor: HUTECH and Kagawa Nutrition University students explore Vietnamese-Japanese cuisine 84

The exchange event fostered a meaningful connection between HUTECH and Kagawa students

The event ended with joys and new friendships between HUTECH and Kagawa students. Beyond discovering each other’s culinary traditions, they also forged meaningful cross-border connections through this memorable experience. Warm handshakes, group photos, and promises to meet again were a testament to the event’s success, highlighting HUTECH’s dedication to international exchange and connecting students from around the world.

News: Quỳnh Anh
Photo: Quốc Bảo - Tiến Đạt
Communication Center

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