Welcome to VNAround (vnaround.com) – more than a blog, we’re your Viet guide to savoring the best culinary experiences Vietnam has to offer. Vietnamese cuisine is a harmonious blend of flavors, textures, and fresh ingredients, making it a must-try for any traveler. Here are the top 10 dishes you simply can’t miss when visiting Vietnam.
1. Pho – Vietnam’s National Dish
What is it?
Pho is a traditional noodle soup, often considered the heart and soul of Vietnamese cuisine.
Why You Should Try It
- A savory broth simmered for hours with beef or chicken bones.
- Served with flat rice noodles, meat, and fresh herbs.
- Perfect for breakfast or any time of the day.
Where to Find It
Pho is available at street stalls and restaurants nationwide. Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City each have their unique styles.
2. Banh Mi – The Vietnamese Sandwich
What is it?
A fusion of French and Vietnamese influences, Banh Mi is a baguette filled with a variety of savory ingredients.
Why You Should Try It
- A crispy baguette stuffed with pork, pate, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.
- Customizable with different fillings like chicken, egg, or tofu.
Where to Find It
Look for street vendors or bakeries across Vietnam. Hoi An is particularly famous for its Banh Mi.
3. Bun Cha – Grilled Pork with Vermicelli
What is it?
Bun Cha features grilled pork served with rice vermicelli, fresh herbs, and a tangy dipping sauce.
Why You Should Try It
- A perfect balance of smoky, savory, and tangy flavors.
- Often served with crispy spring rolls on the side.
Where to Find It
Hanoi is the birthplace of Bun Cha and offers the most authentic experience.
4. Goi Cuon – Fresh Spring Rolls
What is it?
Goi Cuon are translucent rice paper rolls filled with shrimp, pork, vermicelli, and fresh herbs.
Why You Should Try It
- Light, healthy, and full of fresh flavors.
- Dipped in a peanut or hoisin sauce for added richness.
Where to Find It
Commonly found at restaurants and food markets nationwide.
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5. Com Tam – Broken Rice
What is it?
Com Tam, or broken rice, is a popular dish served with grilled pork, fried egg, and pickled vegetables.
Why You Should Try It
- Affordable and filling, making it a favorite among locals.
- Topped with a flavorful fish sauce dressing.
Where to Find It
Ho Chi Minh City is known for its excellent Com Tam spots.
6. Cao Lau – Hoi An’s Signature Dish
What is it?
Cao Lau is a noodle dish unique to Hoi An, featuring thick noodles, pork, fresh greens, and crispy croutons.
Why You Should Try It
- A dish steeped in history and tradition, with noodles made using water from a specific well in Hoi An.
Where to Find It
Hoi An is the only place to enjoy authentic Cao Lau.
7. Cha Ca – Turmeric Fish
What is it?
Cha Ca is a Hanoi specialty featuring fish marinated in turmeric and served with dill, vermicelli, and peanuts.
Why You Should Try It
- A unique blend of spices and herbs that’s both fragrant and flavorful.
< Where to Find It
Cha Ca La Vong in Hanoi is a legendary spot for this dish.
8. Banh Xeo – Vietnamese Pancake
What is it?
Banh Xeo is a crispy pancake filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and mung beans.
Why You Should Try It
- A fun dish to eat, as you wrap it in lettuce leaves and dip it in fish sauce.
Where to Find It
Southern Vietnam is known for its flavorful Banh Xeo.
9. Hu Tieu – Southern-Style Noodle Soup
What is it?
Hu Tieu is a clear noodle soup popular in southern Vietnam, featuring pork, seafood, and fresh herbs.
Why You Should Try It
- A lighter alternative to Pho, with a slightly sweeter broth.
Where to Find It
Commonly found in the Mekong Delta region.
10. Che – Vietnamese Sweet Dessert
What is it?
Che is a sweet dessert soup or pudding made with ingredients like beans, coconut milk, and jelly.
Why You Should Try It
- Perfect for cooling off on a hot day.
- Comes in countless varieties, from warm to icy.
Where to Find It
Che vendors can be found at markets and street corners across Vietnam.
Tips for Enjoying Vietnamese Food
- Eat Like a Local: Head to bustling markets or street stalls for authentic flavors.
- Try Everything: Don’t shy away from unfamiliar dishes; they might surprise you.
- Pair with Drinks: Many dishes go well with iced tea or local beer.
At VNAround (vnaround.com), we’re passionate about sharing the flavors of Vietnam. These dishes represent the country’s rich culinary heritage and are sure to leave you craving more.
Let us know which dish you’re excited to try, and stay tuned to VNAround for more culinary adventures! 🌏
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