15 Vietnamese Appetizers You’ll Love

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and a delightful array of appetizers that tantalize the taste buds. Here are 15 mouth-watering Vietnamese appetizers that you'll absolutely love.

1. Gỏi Cuốn (Vietnamese Spring Rolls)
These delicious fresh spring rolls are made with rice paper, packed with shrimp, herbs, rice noodles, and sometimes pork. They are often served with a savory peanut dipping sauce that amplifies their flavor.

2. Chả Giò (Vietnamese Fried Spring Rolls)
Also known as egg rolls, these crispy delights are filled with a mix of ground meat, mushrooms, and vegetables. They are deep-fried to golden perfection, offering a crunchy contrast to the soft filling.

3. Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese Rice Flour Pancakes)
Bánh xèo are savory pancakes made from rice flour and turmeric, filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and various greens. They are typically enjoyed with a side of lettuce and herbs for wrapping.

4. Nem Nướng (Grilled Pork Sausage)
This dish features skewered and grilled pork, often served with rice paper, lettuce, and a variety of herbs. It’s a delightful combination of textures and flavors, especially when paired with nuoc cham dipping sauce.

5. Bánh Căn (Mini Rice Cakes)
Bánh căn are small rice cakes cooked in clay molds, usually topped with shrimp, squid, or egg. They are served with a dipping sauce and often a side of greens.

6. Mực Nướng (Grilled Squid)
This popular snack features marinated squid grilled to perfection. It is usually served with a spicy dipping sauce and fresh herbs, making it an absolute must-try for seafood lovers.

7. Xíu Mại (Vietnamese Meatballs)
These pork meatballs, often served in a flavorful tomato sauce, are a staple in Vietnamese households. They are typically enjoyed with steamed rice and a side of pickled vegetables.

8. Bò Tái Chanh (Vietnamese Beef Salad)
This refreshing salad features thinly sliced raw beef marinated in lime juice, garnished with herbal accompaniments. It’s a unique appetizer that perfectly balances flavors.

9. Ốc Nướng (Grilled Snails)
If you're adventurous, you must try grilled snails seasoned with spicy and fragrant herbs. This trendy Vietnamese street food is often packed with flavor and comes with a delicious dipping sauce.

10. Sò Điệp Nướng (Grilled Scallops)
Grilled scallops topped with a mixture of garlic, butter, and herbs make for a decadent appetizer. They are typically grilled in their shells and served hot, ideal for seafood lovers.

11. Bánh Hỏi (Vietnamese Rice Vermicelli)
This dish consists of fine rice vermicelli served with grilled meat and fresh herbs. It’s often accompanied by a sweet and salty dipping sauce that enhances every bite.

12. Canh Chua (Vietnamese Sour Soup)
This tangy and savory soup, often made with fish, tamarind, and assorted vegetables, is a refreshing start to any meal. It’s a perfect appetizer that whets the appetite.

13. Rau Muống Xào Tỏi (Stir-Fried Morning Glory)
This simple yet delicious dish features stir-fried water spinach with garlic. The crunchy texture combined with the rich flavor makes it a beloved side and appetizer.

14. Gà Chiên (Vietnamese Fried Chicken)
Vietnamese fried chicken is marinated in spices and then deep-fried until golden and crispy. It’s often served with a zesty dipping sauce, making it a crowd favorite.

15. Bì Cuốn (Vietnamese Meat and Rice Rolls)
This is a roll made with thin rice paper that includes a variety of meats, typically barbecued pork and shrimp, accompanied by fresh herbs and vegetables.

Each of these appetizers offers a unique taste of Vietnam, celebrating fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. Try them at your local Vietnamese restaurant or make them at home for a delicious culinary experience!