Simple Vietnamese Recipes for a Healthy and Low-Calorie Diet

Vietnamese cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, making it an excellent choice for those seeking healthy and low-calorie meal options. Here are some simple Vietnamese recipes that are both delicious and nutritious.

1. Vietnamese Spring Rolls (Gỏi Cuốn)

These fresh spring rolls are packed with vegetables and protein, making them a perfect low-calorie snack or appetizer.

  • Ingredients:
    • Rice paper wrappers
    • Fresh herbs (mint, cilantro, and basil)
    • Rice vermicelli noodles
    • Shrimp or tofu
    • Cucumber, julienned
    • Carrots, julienned
    • Lettuce leaves

Instructions:

  1. Cook the rice vermicelli noodles according to package instructions and drain.
  2. Soak a rice paper wrapper in warm water for 5-10 seconds until it's pliable.
  3. Place a lettuce leaf on the wrapper, followed by a small amount of noodles, shrimp or tofu, and vegetables.
  4. Sprinkle with fresh herbs, then roll the wrapper tightly, folding in the sides as you go.
  5. Serve with a light dipping sauce made of soy sauce and lime juice.

2. Vietnamese Chicken Salad (Gỏi Gà)

This refreshing chicken salad is a great way to enjoy lean protein and crunchy vegetables while keeping calories in check.

  • Ingredients:
    • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken breast
    • 2 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
    • 1 cup carrots, shredded
    • 1 cup fresh herbs (mint, cilantro)
    • 2 tbsp fish sauce
    • Juice of 1 lime
    • 1 tbsp sugar (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cabbage, carrots, and fresh herbs.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until well combined.
  4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

3. Vietnamese Steamed Fish (Cá Hấp)

This dish is simple and healthy, allowing the natural flavors of the fish to shine while being low in calories.

  • Ingredients:
    • 1 whole fish (such as tilapia or sea bass)
    • 2-3 slices of fresh ginger
    • 1-2 green onions, chopped
    • 2 tbsp soy sauce
    • Fresh herbs for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Clean the fish and place it on a heatproof plate.
  2. Top with ginger slices, green onions, and soy sauce.
  3. Set up a steamer or bring a pot of water to boil and place the plate with fish on top.
  4. Cover and steam for about 15-20 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
  5. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

4. Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup)

This iconic dish can easily be made as a low-calorie meal by using lean cuts of meat and plenty of vegetables.

  • Ingredients:
    • 4 cups low-sodium chicken or beef broth
    • Rice noodles
    • Thinly sliced beef or chicken
    • Basil, cilantro, and green onions for garnish
    • Lime wedges
    • Bean sprouts (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Bring the broth to a simmer in a large pot.
  2. Add rice noodles and cook according to package instructions.