Vietnamese Food
Food is what connects people and no where is that statement reflected more vividly than in Vietnam. From bustling street vendors to high-end fine dining restaurant, food can be found on almost every corner of city and country area, cherished by groups of family and friends and eating alone is a rare scene. And once you are in the country, you will soon realize authentic food is much broader than pho - the omnipresent noodle with beef and cha gio - deep fried spring rolls. Food in Vietnam is as diverse as its dialects and one can only uncover it while you stay long enough. Discover a gastronomic world in the S-shaped country with our food guide.
Sour Soup (Canh chua)
Vietnam is a tropical country with hot climate so Canh chua is one of the most popular dishes in Vietnamese people’s diets.
Crab Spring Rolls (Nem cua bể)
If you fall in love with “nem ran” (Vietnamese spring rolls), nem cua be, is bound not to let you down for the first try.
Fresh spring roll (Gỏi cuốn)
If you are seeking for a novel dish that is certain to help you stay away from fat or cholesterol but incredibly delicious on its own, do not miss the chance of a lifetime enjoying authentic gỏi cuốn in Vietnam
Vietnamese Fermented Pork Roll (Nem chua)
Wandering around the Old Quarter in the evening, you can easily be intrigued by the appetizing aroma and the greasy sweet taste of sizzling fermented pork roll grilled on barbecue over charcoals.
“Lẩu canh chua” (Sour Soup Hotpot)
With a taste perfectly fitting Vietnamese appetite, it is the most popular hotpot in Vietnam.
“Lẩu Dê” (goat hotpot)
“Lẩu Dê” (goat hotpot) is quite famous in Vietnam for its nutritious value and appetizing flavor.
Lau mam (Fish hotpot)
“Lẩu mắm” is a southern specialty and an amazing marriage of preserved fish and hot-pot as well.
Thit kho (Caramelized Pork Belly)
We also know that meat contains a number of important nutrients that are needed by our bodies for carrying out vital metabolic functions and provide us with energy and keep us healthy.
Tom Kho (Vietnamese simmered prawn)
As the case with many other seafood, “ tôm”( prawn) is nutritional food and very good for our health.
Khoái Cake (stuffed omelette)
Known as Hue version of Xèo cake-a southern savory pancake, Khoai cake is the ideal choice in the cold weather.
Bột lọc cake (steamed clear tapioca cake)
This is an appetizer quite similar to Nậm cake at the first sight because of the main ingredients and the flavor of sweet and spicy sauce.
Bèo cake (literally “water fern cake”)
Bèo cake (literally “water fern cake”) looks like water ferns floating on the waves; just a look is enough for you to remind of Hue with water ferns drifting across romantic rivers.
Com Tam (broken rice)
“Cơm tấm” of Sai Gòn (known as Ho Chi Minh City) is so mouthwatering and distinctive that it is considered as the should- try-first specialty when tourists reach this hustling and bustling city.
Com Hen (rice with baby clams)
The next destination is Hue, the home to “cơm hến” (rice with baby clams), a special delicacy, but also an extremely common dish for locals.
Com lam (rice in bamboo tube)
This is the typical cuisine of northwest Vietnam mountain tribes.
Com Nam (rice ball)
It is simply “cơm” that is pressed into cylinder or sphere shape, wrapped in green banana leaves and often served with salted roasted sesame.
Com (plain boiled rice)
Vietnamese daily meals contain from 3 to 4 courses but most of the time the essential side dish is always “Cơm”.
Nậm cake (steamed shrimp rice cake)
The cake should be tried first is Nậm cake (steamed shrimp rice cake).
Che-Sweet Pudding
One of the must-trys when you get to Vietnam is che- a variety of sweet pudding texture desert.
Frequently asked questions
What time of day do Vietnamese eat?
In Vietnam, meal times generally follow this schedule:
- Breakfast: 6:00 AM - 9:00 AM
- Lunch: 11:00 AM - 1:30 PM
- Dinner: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
However, these times can vary based on individual preferences and work commitments. Some may prefer a lighter breakfast and a hearty lunch, while others do the opposite. Street food stalls remain open throughout the day, offering a variety of affordable dishes. Snacking is also popular, with vendors serving tasty treats at all hours.
What is a typical lunch in Vietnam?
A typical lunch in Vietnam includes:
- Rice: A staple in Vietnamese cuisine, rice is commonly served with every meal.
- Main Dish: A protein-rich option such as grilled chicken, fish, or tofu, accompanied by seasonal vegetables.
- Soup: A delicious broth-based soup, like pho or canh chua, is often featured.
- Vegetables: Fresh vegetables, including herbs and pickled varieties, are served as sides or used for wrapping.
- Sauces: Various dipping sauces like nuoc cham or hoisin enhance the flavors of the dishes.
Vietnamese lunches are usually quick and informal, enjoyed at street vendors or at home, emphasizing fresh ingredients and a balance of flavors.
Is food in Vietnam healthy?
Vietnamese cuisine is often recognized as a healthy option due to its emphasis on fresh ingredients and a rich array of herbs and spices. Many traditional dishes incorporate plenty of vegetables and lean proteins like seafood, chicken, and tofu. Fresh herbs not only enhance flavor but also offer various health benefits. Staple foods like rice and noodles provide necessary carbohydrates.
However, healthiness can vary by dish and preparation method. For example, some street food items may contain high levels of sodium, sugar, and unhealthy fats. Deep-fried options like spring rolls may not be the best choices. Moderation and variety are essential for a balanced diet, so opt for dishes made with fresh ingredients and lighter cooking techniques.
What is street food in Vietnam?
Street food in Vietnam encompasses a vibrant array of informal food stalls and vendors offering ready-to-eat meals on the streets. This beloved dining style allows locals to enjoy quick and affordable meals while providing tourists with a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine. From savory classics like pho and banh mi to sweet delights like che (sweet soups made from beans, fruit, and jelly), each vendor typically specializes in specific dishes. Meals are often enjoyed at small plastic stools or food carts, creating a lively and communal dining experience.
What are top 10 Vietnamese dishes?
Here's an updated guide to some of the most popular Vietnamese dishes:
- Phở: A beloved noodle soup featuring rice noodles, tender meat (usually beef or chicken), and a rich, aromatic broth.
- Bánh Mì: A savory sandwich crafted with a crispy baguette stuffed with a variety of meats, fresh vegetables, and flavorful sauces.
- Spring Rolls (Nem Rán): Crispy, deep-fried spring rolls filled with ground pork, mushrooms, and a medley of ingredients.
- Bún Chả: Grilled pork served with vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a tangy dipping sauce.
- Bánh Cuốn: Delicate rice cakes rolled with ground pork and mushrooms, served with a dipping sauce.
- Gỏi Cuốn: Fresh spring rolls packed with rice noodles, herbs, and your choice of seafood or meat.
- Cơm Tấm: Fragrant broken rice topped with grilled pork, a fried egg, and various sides.
- Xôi: Sticky rice served warm, often flavored with coconut milk, mung beans, or meats, and enjoyed any time of day.
- Bánh Xèo: A crispy pancake filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, cooked to perfection.
- Canh Chua: A deliciously sour soup made with fish, pineapple, and vegetables, simmered in a tamarind broth.
Is Vietnamese food good for weight loss?
Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its health benefits and is often hailed as one of the healthiest in the world. A diet centered around fresh ingredients, herbs, and balanced flavors can lead to improved well-being. Many individuals report weight loss of 5% to 7% over 2-3 months when they transition from Western diets to Vietnamese meals, thanks to the lower calorie and high-nutrient content of the food.
What does "Phở" mean?
Pho is a beloved dish in Vietnamese cuisine, consisting of noodle soup served in a clear, aromatic broth, typically featuring beef or chicken. It’s often enhanced with fresh herbs like cilantro, green onions, basil, and bean sprouts, which contribute to its unique flavor profile.
This versatile dish can be enjoyed at any time of day, whether as a hearty meal or a delightful snack.
Is Vietnamese food spicy?
Yes and no.
Vietnamese cuisine varies significantly by region; as you travel south, you'll notice an increase in spice levels. In the south, dishes like curry are often rich in chili and spices, while others, such as boiled vegetables or tofu in tomato sauce, are milder and spice-free. Typically, chilies are served on the side, allowing diners to adjust the heat to their preference.
What do Vietnamese say before they eat?
In Vietnam, it is uncommon to say grace before meals, except for religious occasions. The culture deeply respects elders, and younger family members typically say, "Mời ông/bà xơi cơm," which translates to "Dear Grandpa/Grandma, please enjoy your meal." This custom extends to anyone older, so in a family setting, it includes grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles, and older siblings.
What do Vietnamese people eat for breakfast?
In Vietnam, a hearty breakfast is a daily ritual for many. Many people enjoy broth-based dishes like pho and bun, while others opt for quick bites like Banh My (Vietnamese baguette) and Xoi (sticky rice). Breakfast often features a delightful mix of savory and sweet options, highlighting fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. Street food stalls are popular for breakfast, providing a variety of affordable and delicious choices. Staples such as rice, noodles, and bread are commonly found on breakfast tables across the country.
What are some traditional food in Vietnam?
Vietnam boasts a vibrant culinary landscape, with several traditional dishes gaining international acclaim:
- Phở: A flavorful noodle soup typically made with beef or chicken.
- Bún Chả: Grilled BBQ pork served with rice noodles and a savory dipping sauce.
- Bánh Mì: A Vietnamese baguette stuffed with a variety of fresh ingredients.
- Bún Bò Huế: A spicy noodle soup featuring thick rice noodles and beef, originating from Huế.
- Hủ Tiếu: Southern-style rice noodles with char siu and quail eggs.
- Chè: A sweet dessert made with various beans and often thickened with rice or tapioca.
- Bún Ốc: Noodles served with snails in a savory broth.
- Cơm Gà Hội An: Fragrant turmeric rice topped with tender shredded chicken.
