When visiting Phu Quy Island, travelers will easily come across green clams (Dom xanh)—a humble yet abundant seafood species that lives along the shoreline throughout the year. Dom xanh is a type of bivalve mollusk that usually buries itself in the sand or hides carefully beneath coral beds and submerged rocky reefs.
For island residents, Dom xanh is more than just a source of food—it represents a shared memory and a way of life. In the past, this shellfish was a true “lifesaver” for many families during stormy seasons, when rough seas forced fishing boats to stay ashore and supplies from the mainland could not reach the island.
Today, Dom xanh has evolved into a well-known local specialty, often served to visiting guests thanks to its high nutritional value and unforgettable flavor. The meat is firm and naturally sweet, carrying the distinct taste of the sea, and can be prepared in many delicious ways. What makes Dom xanh even more special is how easy it is to harvest: with nothing more than a simple spoon or any small metal tool, one can dig into the sand and collect fresh clams—perfect for a casual seaside barbecue under the island sun.
