TIẾNG VIỆT
1. Pho: The Quintessential Vietnamese Soup
Pho is a fragrant noodle soup that embodies the essence of Vietnamese cooking. It's typically crafted with a slow-cooked broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat, usually beef or chicken. Enjoy it at any time of the day as it's a local favorite for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
The secret to Pho's unique taste lies in its aromatic broth, which is simmered for hours with charred onions, ginger, and a mix of spices such as star anise and cinnamon. Each region in Vietnam offers its own twist on this dish, with Hanoi's version being lighter and more aromatic, while Ho Chi Minh City prefers a sweeter, spicier broth. A squeeze of lime and the addition of fresh herbs like basil and cilantro elevate Pho from a simple noodle soup to a complex, flavorful meal.
2. Banh Mi: The Vietnamese Baguette Sandwich
A perfect example of French influence on Vietnamese cuisine, Banh Mi combines a crispy baguette with savory fillings like pate, pork, cucumber, and pickled carrots. It’s a versatile treat available from street vendors in bustling cities or small towns.
Banh Mi's appeal lies in its delightful contrast of textures and flavors. The crusty exterior of the baguette encases a savory medley of meats, such as cold cuts, grilled pork, or meatballs, paired with vibrant, crunchy vegetables. The addition of chili, coriander, and homemade mayonnaise enriches the sandwich, making it a beloved street food across Vietnam. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or a quick snack, Banh Mi is a staple that both locals and visitors cannot resist.
3. Bun Cha: Grilled Pork and Noodle Delight
Hailing from Hanoi, Bun Cha features juicy grilled pork served with a side of rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a tangy dipping sauce. A perfect lunchtime meal to enjoy on a busy day of sightseeing.
Imagine wandering the vibrant streets of Hanoi and being lured by the smoky aroma of sizzling pork. Bun Cha is a must-try not only for its flavor but also for its cultural significance. Grilled pork patties and slices of pork belly are marinated in a fragrant mix of garlic, fish sauce, and sugar before being grilled to perfection. Served with cold rice noodles and fresh herbs, the dish is completed with a tangy dipping sauce made of fish sauce, vinegar, and lime. This perfect harmony of flavors and textures is a quintessential Hanoi experience.
4. Goi Cuon: Fresh Spring Rolls
These light, fresh spring rolls are packed with shrimp, herbs, and vermicelli, all wrapped in rice paper. Goi Cuon is often served with a tasty peanut dipping sauce, making it a delicious appetizer or snack.
Fresh and healthy, Goi Cuon offers a taste of Vietnam's dedication to clean flavors and simple preparation. The translucent rice paper wraps reveal vibrant layers of fresh herbs, crisp greens, vermicelli noodles, and plump shrimp. What sets these rolls apart is the dipping sauce, which can range from mildly sweet peanut sauce to tangy fish sauce blends. Whether you're grabbing them from a street vendor or enjoying them in a restaurant, these rolls are a refreshing escape from heavier meals.
5. Cao Lau: A Specialty of Hoi An
Cao Lau is a unique noodle dish that represents the culinary diversity of the ancient town of Hoi An. It features thick noodles, slices of pork, fresh greens, and crispy croutons, all soaked in a flavorful broth.
Cao Lau holds a special place in the heart of Hoi An, not just for its taste, but also for its historical significance. The distinctive noodles are said to be made using water from ancient Cham wells, adding a unique texture and flavor. The dish is a beautiful marriage of flavors, where savory pork and broth meet the freshness of greens and the crunch of croutons. Cao Lau is not just a meal; it's a story on a plate, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of Hoi An.
6. Com Tam: Fragrant Broken Rice
Com Tam, or broken rice, is a common dish that serves as a hearty meal. Typically accompanied by grilled pork, a fried egg, or various kinds of meat, it's often topped with a drizzle of fish sauce for extra flavor.
Originally a dish born out of necessity, Com Tam has transformed into a popular and beloved meal all over Vietnam. The grains of broken rice offer a softer texture that works perfectly with a variety of toppings such as grilled chicken, pork skin, and an omelet. Often served with a side of cucumber slices and pickled vegetables, it's a balanced dish that can satiate any palate. Com Tam truly highlights the Vietnamese knack for turning simplicity into culinary brilliance.
7. Cha Ca: Hà Nội's Iconic Fish Dish
Cha Ca is a must-try when visiting Hanoi. This sizzling fish dish is marinated with turmeric and dill and served with noodles and peanuts, offering a burst of flavors in every bite.
Dive into the vibrant food scene of Hanoi with Cha Ca, a dish so cherished that a street, Cha Ca Street, is named after it. It features white fish marinated with turmeric, dill, and other aromatic spices, then fried at the table in a pan full of bubbling butter. Served with vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a sprinkle of peanuts for added crunch, Cha Ca offers a delectable experience that dances between flavors and textures, mirroring Hanoi's energetic vibe.
8. Banh Xeo: Savory Vietnamese Pancake
Banh Xeo is a crispy, savory pancake stuffed with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. This delightful dish is a favorite among locals and is best enjoyed by wrapping it in lettuce and dipping in a tangy sauce.
The name Banh Xeo, meaning 'sizzling pancake,' perfectly captures the sound of batter hitting the hot skillet, a prelude to the crispy delight that follows. The batter, made with rice flour and turmeric, creates a vibrant yellow shell encasing a juicy mix of shrimp, pork, and beansprouts. The magic happens when you fold the pancake in fresh lettuce leaves, add herbs, and dip it in a zesty sauce. This creates a harmony of textures and flavors that showcases Vietnam's inventive culinary artistry.
9. Bo Luc Lac: Flavorful Shaken Beef
Known as 'shaking beef,' Bo Luc Lac is tender beef cubes sautéed with soy and fish sauces, served with a side of fresh greens. It’s a beautiful balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.
Bo Luc Lac is not just another beef dish; it's a testament to the sophisticated interplay of flavors that defines Vietnamese cuisine. The dish derives its name from the motion used to stir-fry the beef in a hot pan, which gives it a beautifully seared exterior and juicy interior. The combination of soy sauce and fish sauce imparts a rich, umami flavor that is balanced by a squeeze of lime, creating an exquisite culinary experience. Whether served over a bed of greens or with rice, Bo Luc Lac is a savory component on any Vietnamese food journey.
10. Che: Diverse Vietnamese Desserts
Finish your Vietnamese food tour with Che, a selection of colorful and sweet Vietnamese desserts. Whether it's a refreshing jelly or a warm bean pudding, these desserts are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Che is a delightful way to conclude your culinary exploration of Vietnam, offering a sweet reprieve with its array of textures and flavors. From chilled varieties featuring beans, tapioca, and jellies, to warm bowls of creamy sweet pudding enriched with coconut milk and tropical fruits, Che embodies the Vietnamese love for balance and freshness. Each spoonful brings a different experience, capturing the spirit of indulgence and refreshment. Che is not just a dessert but a celebration of Vietnam's dessert craftsmanship.