Best Vietnamese Dinners to Pair with Your Favorite Drink

Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated for its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and aromatic herbs. When it comes to pairing these delectable dishes with your favorite drinks, the results can be spectacular. Whether you prefer beer, cocktails, or something non-alcoholic, here are the best Vietnamese dinners to enhance your dining experience.

1. Pho with Beer

One of Vietnam's most iconic dishes, pho, is a noodle soup that combines rich flavors from herbs, spices, and slow-cooked broth. Pairing pho with a crisp Vietnamese lager like Bia Hoi or even a lighter pilsner can enhance its taste. The refreshing carbonation of beer cuts through the richness of the beef or chicken, creating a delightful balance.

2. Bun Cha with White Wine

Bun Cha is a Hanoi specialty featuring grilled pork patties and slices, served with rice noodles and a tangy dipping sauce. A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light, fruity Riesling can complement the sweet and tangy notes of the dish. The acidity in the wine will also harmonize well with the flavors of the fish sauce.

3. Com tam with Cocktails

Com tam, or broken rice, is served with various toppings like grilled pork, egg, and pickled vegetables. Pair this savory dish with a refreshing cocktail such as a mojito or a lychee martini. The freshness of mint in a mojito or the sweetness of lychee perfectly balances the savory components of com tam, creating a flavorful foil.

4. Cha Gio with Green Tea

Cha gio, or Vietnamese spring rolls, are crispy delights filled with vegetables, shrimp, or pork. These can be paired with green tea, known for its earthy and slightly bitter taste. The mildness of green tea will not overpower the flavors of the spring rolls, allowing you to savor every bite.

5. Curry with Coconut Water

Vietnamese curry is rich and creamy, typically made with chicken or beef, and infused with aromatic spices. Pair this dish with refreshing coconut water. The natural sweetness and slight creaminess of coconut water will enhance the curry's flavors, making for a revitalizing combination that transports you to a tropical paradise.

6. Banh Mi with Iced Coffee

Banh Mi is a Vietnamese sandwich bursting with flavors from marinated meats, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. A traditional Vietnamese iced coffee, made with robusta beans and sweetened condensed milk, is the perfect complement. The bold flavor of the coffee accentuates the savory, sweet, and spicy notes of the banh mi.

7. Hu Tieu with Local Craft Beers

Hu Tieu is a versatile noodle soup that can be made with different proteins and broths. Pairing it with local craft beers enhances the dish's complexity. The various hops and malt flavors from the beer can bring out the unique tastes of the broth and toppings, making each bite even more enjoyable.

8. Goi Cuon with Sparkling Wine

Goi cuon, or fresh spring rolls, filled with shrimp, herbs, and rice vermicelli, are light and refreshing. Pair them with a glass of sparkling wine to elevate your dining experience. The bubbles and acidity from the wine balance the fresh flavors of the spring rolls, making every bite feel like a celebration.

When it comes to Vietnamese dinners, the right drink pairing can enhance your culinary journey. Experiment with these suggestions to discover your perfect match. Each dish offers a unique experience that is waiting to be explored!