10 Classic Vietnamese Appetizers You Must Try

Vietnamese cuisine is a vibrant fusion of flavors and textures, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts. Appetizers in Vietnamese cooking, known as "khai vị," play a crucial role in tantalizing the taste buds and preparing diners for the main course. Here are 10 classic Vietnamese appetizers you must try:

1. Gỏi cuốn (Spring Rolls)
These fresh spring rolls, often filled with shrimp, herbs, and vermicelli noodles, are wrapped in rice paper and served with a delicious peanut or hoisin sauce. They are light and refreshing, perfect for a warm day.

2. Chả giò (Fried Spring Rolls)
Unlike their fresh counterparts, chả giò are crispy, deep-fried rolls filled with a mixture of ground pork, mushrooms, and vermicelli. They are typically served with lettuce and dipping sauce, creating a delightful textural contrast.

3. Bánh xèo (Vietnamese Pancakes)
This savory pancake, made from rice flour, turmeric, and coconut milk, is filled with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts. Bánh xèo is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, usually served with fresh herbs and dipping sauce.

4. Nem nướng (Grilled Pork Skewers)
These skewers feature marinated ground pork grilled to perfection. Nem nướng is often served with rice paper, herbs, and pickled vegetables, allowing diners to create their own rolls.

5. Bánh bèo (Water Fern Cakes)
These tiny steamed rice cakes are topped with minced shrimp, scallions, and fried shallots. Typically served in a small bowl, bánh bèo is both delicate and flavorful, making it a delightful starter.

6. Xôi gà (Chicken Sticky Rice)
This dish consists of sticky rice topped with shredded chicken, garnished with scallions and fried shallots. The rich flavors and satisfying texture make xôi gà a staple appetizer in Vietnamese cuisine.

7. Bánh cuốn (Steamed Rice Rolls)
These thin rice flour sheets are filled with a mixture of ground pork and mushroom. Bánh cuốn are delicately steamed, served with a side of dipping sauce and fresh herbs, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

8. Tôm chua (Pickled Shrimp)
This unique appetizer features shrimp preserved in a sweet and tangy brine. Tôm chua is often served alongside rice or vermicelli, providing a zesty flavor that is a great palate cleanser.

9. Cánh gà rán (Fried Chicken Wings)
Vietnamese fried chicken wings are marinated in a mix of spices and herbs before being deep-fried to crispy perfection. Often accompanied by a tangy chili sauce, these wings are packed with flavor and are a popular choice at gatherings.

10. Sò điệp nướng (Grilled Scallops)
Grilled scallops topped with a savory mix of garlic, butter, and herbs make for a luxurious appetizer. Served in their shells, these scallops are tender and flavorful, offering a taste of the ocean with each bite.

Experiencing these classic Vietnamese appetizers is not just about tasting food; it's about enjoying the rich culture and culinary traditions of Vietnam. Whether you’re dining at a restaurant or trying your hand at making these dishes at home, they promise an authentic journey through Vietnamese flavors.