When visiting Phu Quoc, travelers are not only captivated by the island’s turquoise waters and golden sunshine, but also by its rich and diverse seafood culture. Among the many specialties, Phu Quoc sea urchin (also known as sea hedgehog or “uni”) is a dish that no seafood lover should miss. Its creamy texture, rich ocean aroma, and high nutritional value make it one of the most unforgettable flavors of the Pearl Island.
What Is Sea Urchin and Why Is It Called “Ginseng of the Sea”?
Sea urchins belong to the same family as clams and scallops. They look like black, spiky balls—similar to a rambutan fruit when young—and can grow up to 8–10 cm in diameter. In Japan and Korea, sea urchin (uni) is considered a premium delicacy enjoyed by the upper class.
In traditional Eastern medicine, sea urchin meat is believed to:
- Nourish the kidneys and support overall vitality
- Improve blood circulation
- Boost calcium levels
- Help with fatigue, weakness, and low energy
Because of its impressive nutritional profile, sea urchin is often referred to as “the ginseng of the ocean.”
Sea Urchin Season and How Locals Harvest Them
In Phu Quoc, sea urchins reproduce abundantly from March to July and usually hide in rocky reefs. Fishermen use metal hooks to gently pull them from the rocks. If handled too roughly, the urchin will cling tightly and release its sharp spines in defense.
Tips for Choosing Fresh, High-Quality Sea Urchin
- Check the spines: Moving spines indicate the urchin is alive and fresh.
- Choose larger urchins: Bigger ones contain more meat and roe.
- Pick the right type:
- Long-spined urchins have firmer, tastier meat.
- Short-spined urchins are easier to handle and prepare.
The Best Dishes Made from Phu Quoc Sea Urchin
1. Sea Urchin Congee – Nourishing and Restorative
Sea urchin congee is a highly nutritious dish, perfect for boosting energy or recovering after long travel days.
How it’s made:
The roe is scooped out, sautéed with onions, then added to a pot of simmered rice, mung beans, or lotus seeds. The dish is best served hot with herbs for an aromatic, comforting flavor.
2. Grilled Sea Urchin with Scallion Oil – A Favorite Among Young Travelers
This is the most famous sea urchin dish in Phu Quoc.
Fresh urchins are cut in half, cleaned, topped with scallion oil and pepper, then grilled over charcoal until they release their irresistible aroma. The creamy texture mixed with the smoky flavor makes this dish incredibly addictive—perfect for beachside night gatherings.
3. Steamed Sea Urchin with Egg – Soft, Creamy & Full of Nutrients
Sea urchin roe is mixed with eggs (chicken, duck, or quail), seasoned lightly, then steamed. The result is smooth, custard-like seafood that is both rich and delicately sweet. It’s ideal for those who need nourishment, such as people with low energy, dry skin, or poor appetite.
4. Stir-Fried Sea Urchin with Vegetables – Healthy and Easy to Enjoy
Fresh sea urchin meat is lightly stir-fried with vegetables, keeping its natural sweetness while adding fiber and freshness. This is a great daily dish for those who often feel fatigued or need to improve blood circulation.
5. Sea Urchin Patties – A Flavor You’ll Never Forget
Fresh roe is mixed with spices and pan-fried until golden. Sea urchin patties served with sesame rice crackers, herbs, and sliced green banana offer a crunchy, creamy, unforgettable combination.
Why Phu Quoc Sea Urchin Tastes Better
Phu Quoc’s waters are exceptionally clean and nutrient-rich, helping sea urchins thrive naturally. Their meat and roe have a distinctive flavor—creamy like crab roe, mildly sweet, and infused with the salty essence of the sea—unlike any other seafood.
How Locals Prepare Sea Urchin the Right Way
Freshly caught urchins are processed immediately:
- Cut off all the spines.
- Open the shell and remove water and impurities.
- Rinse gently with sea water to keep the roe intact and preserve its creamy texture.
The roe ranges from golden yellow to light brown, and both colors are delicious.
A Unique Experience: Catching and Cooking Sea Urchin in Phu Quoc
Many island tours offer visitors the chance to join fishermen to catch sea urchins, then prepare and grill them right on the boat or floating raft. This hands-on experience allows travelers to enjoy the freshest flavors of the ocean and brings a memorable highlight to any Phu Quoc trip.
Phu Quoc sea urchin is more than just a local specialty—it is a nutritious gift from the ocean and a culinary highlight you shouldn’t miss. Whether grilled, steamed, fried, or cooked into congee, each dish showcases the unique, rich, and creamy essence of the island.
On your trip to Phu Quoc, be sure to try sea urchin at least once—or better yet, catch and cook it yourself with local fishermen for an unforgettable island experience.
