Bo Mot Nang Cham Muoi Kien (Sun-Dried Beef with Ant Salt)

Bo Mot Nang Cham Muoi Kien is a bold and iconic dish from Gia Lai and the surrounding Central Highlands. The beef is marinated with spices, then dried under the sun for one day ("mot nang") to create a chewy, flavorful texture.

Before serving, it’s grilled over charcoal to enhance its smoky aroma. What makes the dish truly special is the muoi kien — a dipping salt made from chili, salt, and ground red weaver ants, known for their citrusy, tangy taste. The balance between the savory beef and the spicy, sour kick of the ant salt offers a truly adventurous and unforgettable experience.

Recommended spots:

Bò Một Nắng Muối Kiến Đỏ Tân Tuyến – 128 Ngo May, Pleiku, Gia Lai (Local favorite selling grilled beef with authentic homemade ant salt, available for dine-in or takeaway.)

Bò Một Nắng Hồng Hân – 72 Le Loi, Pleiku (Well-known for its tender sun-dried beef and perfectly balanced dipping salt.)

Các quầy đặc sản Gia Lai – Pleiku Night Market (Great place to sample and buy packaged bo mot nang with ant salt as a gift.)