The Most Delicious Vietnamese Appetizers You Should Try

Vietnamese cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and incredible diversity. When it comes to appetizers, the country offers a wide range of tantalizing options that are sure to delight any food lover. Here are some of the most delicious Vietnamese appetizers you should try when you explore this remarkable cuisine.

1. Gỏi Cuốn (Vietnamese Spring Rolls)
These fresh spring rolls are a classic Vietnamese appetizer. Made with rice paper and filled with a variety of ingredients, such as shrimp, pork, fresh herbs, and vermicelli noodles, gỏi cuốn are served with a delicious peanut or hoisin sauce. The combination of textures and flavors makes for a delightful bite!

2. Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese Sizzling Crepes)
Bánh xèo are savory crepes made from rice flour, turmeric, and coconut milk, filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and other veggies. These golden, crispy crepes are served with lettuce leaves and fresh herbs, allowing you to create your own wrap. Dip them in a zesty nuoc cham for an explosion of flavor!

3. Chả Giò (Vietnamese Fried Spring Rolls)
Different from gỏi cuốn, chả giò are deep-fried spring rolls filled with minced meat, mushrooms, and glass noodles. They have a crunchy exterior that encases a warm and savory filling. Often served with lettuce and herbs, these rolls are perfect for dipping in sweet and sour sauce.

4. Bánh Mì Chả Lụa (Vietnamese Pork Sausage Baguette)
This delightful dish is served as a snack or appetizer. A crusty baguette is filled with slices of chả lụa (Vietnamese pork sausage), pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. The interplay of flavors and textures offers a mini-taste of Vietnam in every bite.

5. Hải Sản Nướng (Grilled Seafood)
Grilled seafood in Vietnam often features a variety of fresh catches like shrimp, squid, and fish marinated in flavorful spices. These skewers are typically served with a tangy dipping sauce, making them an ideal starter for any meal.

6. Sò Điệp Nướng Mỡ Hành (Grilled Scallops with Green Onion Oil)
This popular appetizer showcases scallops grilled to perfection and topped with a luscious green onion oil drizzle. The smoky flavor from the grill, paired with the richness of the scallops, makes this dish a must-try at any Vietnamese eatery.

7. Bánh Đúc (Vietnamese Rice Cake)
Bánh đúc are steamed rice cakes that can be either savory or sweet. The savory version is often served with minced pork, mushrooms, and fresh herbs. Its soft, chewy texture and savory topping create a unique and satisfying appetizer.

8. Mực Chiên (Fried Squid)
Fried squid is a favorite appetizer enjoyed in Vietnamese cuisine. The squid is lightly battered and fried until golden, creating a crispy exterior while remaining tender inside. Served with a spicy dipping sauce, this dish is great for sharing!

9. Nộm (Vietnamese Salad)
Nộm is a refreshing Vietnamese salad that typically consists of shredded vegetables like cabbage and carrots, tossed with protein such as chicken or shrimp. Tossed in a flavorful dressing of lime juice and fish sauce, nộm is a delightful way to kick off a meal.

10. Nem Nướng (Grilled Pork Meatballs)
Nem nướng are flavorful grilled pork meatballs made from ground pork mixed with various spices and herbs. They are often served on skewers and paired with fresh veggies and rice paper for wrapping, along with peanut dipping sauce for added richness.

Exploring Vietnamese appetizers is an adventure for the palate, and the dishes mentioned above are just the beginning. Each bite allows you to experience the essence of Vietnamese culture and culinary artistry. Don't miss the chance to indulge in these delicious starters during your next visit to a Vietnamese restaurant!