The uniqueness in preparation and presentation has helped Vietnam increasingly occupy an important position on the world culinary map and create a promising culinary collection, arousing the taste buds of international tourists every time they come to Vietnam. Having had the opportunity to visit Vietnam three times, I am still amazed by this country’s cuisine.
Below is a list of 10 uniquely delicious foods and drinks that you must try when coming to Vietnam, suggested for those who are traveling here for the first time.
It comes as no surprise that pho, Vietnam’s quintessential and iconic dish, takes the top spot on the list.
In January 2022, the renowned American news agency CNN unveiled a list of the 20 best soups globally, with Vietnam’s beef pho taking the top spot. At first glance, a bowl of pho may appear simple, but delving into its preparation and ingredients reveals why its flavor is incredibly aromatic, enticing, and satisfying for diners.
Pho is a noodle soup that consists of rice noodles, broth, meat (usually beef or chicken), herbs, and spices. The broth is simmered for hours with bones, spices, and aromatics, and has a rich and complex flavor. The noodles are thin and soft, and the meat is tender and succulent. The herbs, such as cilantro, basil, and mint, add freshness and fragrance to the dish. You can also customize your pho with various condiments, such as lime, chili, fish sauce, and hoisin sauce.
When in Vietnam, don’t miss out on trying banh mi, a popular culinary delight that you must experience in Ho Chi Minh City, where this famous dish originated.
Banh mi is a delicious sandwich made with a baguette filled with meat, vegetables, and a variety of sauces. The baguette has a crunchy crust and a soft interior, showcasing the French influence on Vietnamese cuisine. You’ll find an array of meat options such as grilled pork, chicken, pate, ham, or meatballs. Accompanying the protein are fresh vegetables like cucumber, carrot, daikon, cilantro, and chili. The sandwich is typically dressed with mayonnaise, butter, soy sauce, and Maggi sauce.
You can enjoy a tasty banh mi sandwich in Vietnam for around 15,000 – 25,000 VND each.
Bun cha, much like pho, is a widely favored dish in Vietnam, especially in Hanoi, known for its distinctiveness. This meal usually comprises grilled pork on a nest of rice vermicelli, coupled with a heated dipping sauce. It is commonly adorned with pepper, shredded green papaya, and carrots, and complemented with crisp vegetables. Bun cha is a cherished and customary component of Vietnamese dining at any time of the day.
Banh xeo is a popular Vietnamese dish featuring a crispy pancake filled with meat, seafood, bean sprouts, and herbs. The pancake is created using rice flour, turmeric, coconut milk, and water, then fried until golden and crunchy. The filling can include a variety of meats and seafood like pork, chicken, shrimp, squid, or mussels, while bean sprouts and herbs provide freshness and texture. Typically, the pancake is accompanied by a dipping sauce made with fish sauce, vinegar, sugar, water, garlic, and chili.
Although banh xeo is enjoyed across Vietnam, each region has its own unique take on the dish. In the south, the pancake is large and thin with a rich, diverse filling. In central regions, the pancake is small and thick, featuring a simple filling. In the north, the pancake is medium-sized and crispy with a balanced filling. This versatile dish can be savored for lunch or dinner at various eateries and street vendors. To enjoy banh xeo to the fullest, slice a piece of the pancake, wrap it in a lettuce leaf with herbs, and dip it in the sauce. Banh xeo offers a delightful and flavorful experience that showcases Vietnam’s culinary diversity.
Banh cuon, a delightful Vietnamese delicacy, features thin rice crepes filled with a delectable combination of minced pork and wood ear mushrooms. The process of preparing banh cuon involves spreading a thin layer of rice batter on a cloth placed over a steaming pot, then filling it with the pork and mushroom mixture. The resulting crepe is carefully rolled and cut into small pieces. Typically served with a dipping sauce made from fish sauce, vinegar, sugar, water, garlic, and chili, and topped with fried shallots and cilantro to elevate its flavors.
This delightful dish is commonly enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack. Although banh cuon can be found across Vietnam, its most authentic versions are typically found in the northern regions where it originated. Prices for banh cuon may vary, usually ranging from 15,000 VND ($0.65) to 30,000 VND ($1.30). Banh cuon is a light dish that is sure to bring a smile to your face as you start your day.
Have you just finished your main meal and looking for a satisfying dessert or drink? Head to the top five specialty drinks in Vietnam. Whether you crave a robust cup of black coffee to kickstart your morning or desire to unwind with a glass of local beer in the evening, the options below are not to be missed.
Vietnam is the world’s second-largest producer of coffee, so it’s no surprise that Vietnamese coffee has gained global acclaim.
True to its name, this beverage not only features coffee but also incorporates condensed milk and sugar, blending to create a delightful aroma and a rich, sweet, and creamy flavor that is incredibly enticing.
Che, a delightful Vietnamese sweet soup, stands out as a scrumptious dessert in Asian cuisine. Originating in China and subsequently making its way to Vietnam and beyond, this dish revolves around water, with sugar as its central ingredient. Particularly favored on hot days across all regions of Vietnam, it has evolved into a diverse, uniquely appealing culinary phenomenon.
Much like its counterpart mentioned earlier, Che has regional nuances, each boasting its distinct attributes. Whether enjoyed piping hot with a dense consistency in the northern regions, or relished in a cooler presentation with a lighter texture in the central areas, or adorned with ice and an abundance of fruits and jelly in the southern parts, Che is readily available at dessert shops and street stalls throughout the country. Its appeal transcends specific times of the day, inviting enthusiasts to savor each spoonful and revel in the harmonious blend of sweetness and smoothness.
Vietnamese locals have a penchant for beer consumption, and one of the favored choices is Bia Hoi, a form of indigenous draft beer. This light and revitalizing beverage, boasting a modest alcohol content of approximately 3%, is freshly brewed daily and commonly served in plastic jugs or glasses. Enjoyed predominantly in the northern regions, Bia Hoi plays an integral role in the local social culture, with evenings often featuring its presence at street corners or open-air bars—a setting ideal for casual conversations and relaxation.
Priced affordably at around 5,000 VND ($0.22) to 10,000 VND ($0.43) per glass, Bia Hoi is known for its economical and cheerful nature. The drink is best consumed promptly to avoid any souring, emphasizing the importance of enjoying it fresh. If you’re a beer enthusiast, exploring Vietnam’s draft beer scene is a must, with a 330ml glass typically costing less than $0.50 and often served in the cozy ambiance of small street-side bars with diminutive plastic tables and chairs.
In recent years, milk tea shops have proliferated across Vietnam, offering a plethora of options. Varieties range from classic black or green tea-based versions to more exotic flavors such as taro, matcha, or fruit-infused blends. Toppings like pearls (boba), grass jelly, or pudding add texture and delight to the overall experience.
Milk tea holds a special place in social gatherings and casual outings. It has become a go-to choice for individuals seeking both a comforting and indulgent beverage. Whether enjoyed as a quick pick-me-up during the day or as a delightful treat with friends, milk tea has become an integral part of Vietnamese beverage culture.
Rice wine is a vital component of Vietnamese drinking culture, with three main types prevalent:
Rice wine has entrenched itself in daily life and traditional activities. It holds significance in special occasions like New Year festivals, funerals, and weddings. Whether consumed plain or infused with herbs or unconventional ingredients, rice wine has become a focal point of every celebration, solidifying its status as the national drink.
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