15 Vietnamese Appetizers to Try at Least Once

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and unique textures, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts worldwide. If you’re looking to explore the culinary delights of Vietnam, here are 15 must-try Vietnamese appetizers that will tantalize your taste buds.

1. Gỏi Cuốn (Fresh Spring Rolls)
These fresh spring rolls are filled with shrimp, herbs, pork, rice vermicelli, and other ingredients, wrapped in rice paper and served with a delicious peanut or hoisin sauce for dipping.

2. Chả Giò (Fried Spring Rolls)
Unlike their fresh counterparts, fried spring rolls bring a crispy texture filled with a savory mix of minced meat, mushrooms, and vegetables, perfectly complemented by fish sauce.

3. Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese Pancakes)
These savory pancakes are made from rice flour and turmeric, filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and herbs. They are pan-fried until crispy and usually enjoyed with a dipping sauce.

4. Thịt Nướng (Grilled Pork Skewers)
Marinated in a delightful mix of fish sauce, sugar, and garlic, these grilled pork skewers are flavorful and serve as a great appetizer, often accompanied by rice paper and fresh herbs.

5. Bò Bía (Vietnamese Spring Rolls with Sausage)
This variation combines both fresh and cooked ingredients, with Chinese sausage, eggs, and herbs wrapped in rice paper, making for a satisfying bite.

6. Xôi Gà (Chicken Sticky Rice)
This dish features sticky rice topped with shredded chicken, accompanied by crispy shallots and garnished with herbs, offering a fragrant and filling appetizer.

7. Bánh Bột Chiên (Fried Rice Pancakes)
These crispy fried rice pancakes are made from rice flour and are commonly served with egg and green onions, drizzled with soy sauce or chili sauce for an extra kick.

8. Sò Điệp Nướng (Grilled Scallops)
This seafood delight features scallops grilled to perfection and often served with a garlic and butter sauce, creating a custard-like texture that’s irresistible.

9. Nem Nướng (Grilled Pork Spring Rolls)
This dish involves grilled pork that is served over vermicelli noodles or wrapped in lettuce leaves along with fresh herbs, creating a fresh and flavorful fold.

10. Mực Nướng (Grilled Squid)
Char-grilled squid is marinated in spices and served with lime and chili dip, making it a tasty appetizer that showcases the freshness of seafood.

11. Bánh Cam (Sesame Balls)
These golden, deep-fried sesame balls are filled with sweetened red bean paste, making for a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

12. Đậu Hũ Kiểu (Vietnamese Tofu)
This dish features crispy fried tofu served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce, perfect for those seeking a vegetarian option packed with flavor.

13. Canh Chua (Sour Soup)
Although it's primarily a soup, canh chua offers a unique palate experience with its mix of sour, spicy, and savory flavors. It’s typically rich in vegetables and served with fish or shrimp.

14. Gà Chiên Nước Mắm (Honey-Battered Fried Chicken)
This delectable appetizer is fried chicken seasoned with an aromatic blend of fish sauce and sugar, providing a crunchy, sweet, and savory treat.

15. Bánh Tráng Nướng (Vietnamese Pizza)
This street food favorite consists of rice paper grilled with toppings such as egg, ham, cheese, and vegetables, offering a deliciously creative twist on classic Vietnamese flavors.

Exploring these appetizers will immerse you in the rich culinary scene of Vietnam, each bite a testament to the country’s diverse and vibrant food culture. Don’t miss the chance to treat your taste buds to these delightful Vietnamese appetizers!