Vietnamese cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and vibrant colors. With a rich culinary history influenced by both Chinese and French cooking, Vietnam offers a wide range of dishes that are as diverse as they are delicious. Join us as we take you on a culinary journey through the top 10 must-try dishes in Vietnam.
1. Pho – Vietnam’s National Dish:
Pho is undoubtedly the most famous Vietnamese dish, and for good reason. This flavorful noodle soup is made with a hearty broth, rice noodles, and your choice of protein, such as beef or chicken. Garnished with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and lime, it’s the perfect comfort food.
2. Banh Mi – A French-Vietnamese Delight:
A legacy of French colonialism, banh mi is a delectable combination of crispy French baguette, savory Vietnamese fillings, and an array of pickled vegetables. From grilled pork to pate, this Vietnamese sandwich is a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
3. Bun Cha – Grilled Pork with Vermicelli Noodles:
Bun Cha is a popular dish originating from Hanoi. It features grilled pork patties served with vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce bursting with flavors. This light yet satisfying dish is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
4. Goi Cuon – Fresh Spring Rolls:
Goi Cuon, also known as Vietnamese spring rolls, are a refreshing appetizer made with rice paper wraps filled with fresh herbs, vermicelli noodles, and your choice of protein, such as shrimp or pork. They are often served with nuoc cham, a tangy dipping sauce.
5. Cao Lau – A Hidden Gem of Hoi An:
Cao Lau is a specialty of Hoi An, a charming ancient city in central Vietnam. This dish combines thick rice noodles, slices of pork, crunchy greens, and crispy pork crackling, all topped off with a flavorful broth. The unique taste of Cao Lau is attributed to the water used to cook the noodles, which comes from an ancient Cham well.
6. Com Tam – Broken Rice with Grilled Pork:
Com Tam, which translates to “broken rice,” is a quintessential Saigon dish. The rice grains are shorter and broken, giving them a unique texture. This dish is traditionally served with grilled pork, a fried egg, and pickled vegetables. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible.
7. Mi Quang – A Colorful Delight:
Originating from the central region of Vietnam, Mi Quang is a vibrant dish that combines turmeric-infused rice noodles, shrimp, pork, fresh herbs, and roasted peanuts. Topped with shrimp crackers, crispy rice paper, and a flavorful broth, this dish is both visually stunning and delicious.
8. Banh Xeo – Vietnamese Pancakes:
Banh Xeo, also known as Vietnamese pancakes, are crispy pancakes made from rice flour and turmeric. They are filled with various ingredients such as shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and onions. Wrapped in lettuce leaves and dipped in a savory sauce, Banh Xeo is a delight to eat.
9. Ca Kho To – Claypot Fish:
Ca Kho To is a traditional Vietnamese dish that is made by simmering catfish in a clay pot with a caramelized sauce made from fish sauce, sugar, and other aromatics. The slow-cooking process infuses the fish with a rich, sweet, and savory flavor.
10. Banh Cuon – Steamed Rice Rolls:
Banh Cuon is a popular breakfast dish in Vietnam. These delicate steamed rice rolls are filled with ground pork, wood ear mushrooms, and onions. They are served with a drizzle of nuoc cham and topped with crispy fried shallots. This simple yet satisfying dish is the perfect way to start your day.
