Mắm kho quẹt is a treasured Vietnamese dish with roots in difficult times, born from the resourcefulness of people who had very little to eat. Back in the day, when food was scarce and the country endured hardship, families would simmer fish sauce, sometimes adding pork fat or tiny dried shrimp, until it thickened into a savory, salty sauce. This intense flavor allowed even simple meals of rice and vegetables to feel more filling and satisfying, offering a small comfort in a time of need. Today, kho quẹt is cherished not only for its bold, rich taste but for the resilience it represents—a reminder of how past generations created warmth and nourishment from the simplest ingredients, bringing history and a deep sense of pride to each bite.