“What are the typical dishes to taste in Vietnam?”
Vietnamese cuisine is a real journey for the taste buds, rich in flavors and aromas. Here is a selection of essential dishes to taste during your stay in Vietnam
Vietnamese Cuisine Essentials
Pho: This fragrant broth, made with beef or chicken, is served with rice noodles, fresh herbs and slices of meat. It is THE national dish of Vietnam.
Bánh mì: This Vietnamese sandwich is a real institution. It is made up of a crispy baguette filled with pâté, marinated vegetables, coriander and chili.
Gỏi cuốn: These fresh spring rolls are filled with rice vermicelli, crunchy vegetables and shrimp or pork. They are often served with peanut sauce.
Bún chả: This typical Hanoi dish is made up of rice vermicelli, grilled pork, spring rolls and fresh herbs. It is eaten with a sweet and sour sauce.
Bánh xèo: These crispy pancakes are stuffed with shrimp, pork and bean sprouts. They are eaten folded in half and dipped in fish sauce.
Cơm tấm: This southern Vietnamese dish is made with broken rice, grilled pork, a fried egg and vegetables.
Other specialties to discover
Bun bo Hue: A spicy noodle soup from Hue, with beef, pig's trotters and sliced plantain.
Ca kho to: Fish cooked in a thick sauce made with caramel and fermented fish.
Bò kho: A French-style beef stew, but with Vietnamese spices.
Canh chua: A sweet and sour soup made with fish, vegetables and tamarind.
Local drinks
Coffee: Vietnamese coffee is very strong and sweet, often made with condensed milk.
Bia hơi: Draft beer, very popular and affordable.
Fresh fruit juice: Tropical fruits are delicious and abundant in Vietnam.
Tips for discovering Vietnamese gastronomy
Visit local markets: You will find fresh products and will be able to observe the daily life of the Vietnamese.
Taste everything you want: Do not hesitate to get out of your comfort zone and try new dishes.
Ask locals for advice: They will be happy to recommend their favorite places.
Be patient: Vietnamese cuisine is often prepared à la minute.
In conclusion, Vietnamese gastronomy is a true culinary adventure. By exploring the different dishes and flavors, you will discover the richness and diversity of this country.
Must-try
What is the national dish of Vietnam? Pho is considered the national dish of Vietnam. It is a fragrant rice noodle soup, served with meat (beef or chicken), fresh herbs and sliced radish. It is a complete and comforting dish.
What are the other dishes that should not be missed? Besides pho, there are bánh mì (Vietnamese sandwich), gỏi cuốn (spring rolls), bún chả (rice noodles with grilled pork), bánh xèo (crispy pancakes), cơm tấm (broken rice with grilled pork) and cha ca (grilled fish with dill).
The special features of Vietnamese cuisine
What are the key ingredients of Vietnamese cuisine? Vietnamese cuisine is rich in flavors thanks to the use of many fresh ingredients: rice noodles, aromatic herbs (coriander, mint, Thai basil), nuoc mam (fish sauce), lemongrass, chili peppers, and of course rice.
How to describe the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine? Vietnamese cuisine is known for its balanced flavors, often a mix of sweet, salty, sour, and spicy. The dishes are generally fresh, light, and fragrant.
Tips for foodies
Where can you taste the best Vietnamese food? For an authentic experience, head to small local restaurants or night markets. Big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City offer a multitude of options.
What are the typical accompaniments for Vietnamese dishes? Vietnamese dishes are often accompanied by fresh vegetables (lettuce, cucumber, carrot), aromatic herbs, and sauces (nuoc mam, sweet and sour sauce). Rice is also an essential accompaniment.