Quick and Simple Vietnamese Dinner Recipes for Beginners

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients, making it an excellent choice for a quick and simple dinner. If you're a beginner looking to explore the world of Vietnamese cooking, here are a few delicious recipes that are easy to prepare and perfect for any evening meal.

1. Pho Ga (Vietnamese Chicken Noodle Soup)

Pho Ga is a fragrant chicken noodle soup that is nutritious and satisfying. Here's how you can prepare it:

  • Ingredients:
    • 200g rice noodles
    • 500g chicken breast
    • 1 onion, sliced
    • 1 ginger root, sliced
    • 2 liters of chicken broth
    • Fresh herbs (basil, cilantro), lime, and chili for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Bring chicken broth to a boil in a large pot.
  2. Add chicken breast, onion, and ginger. Simmer for about 30 minutes.
  3. Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the broth.
  4. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions and place in bowls.
  5. Pour hot broth and chicken over the noodles.
  6. Garnish with fresh herbs, lime wedges, and chili.

2. Spring Rolls (Gỏi Cuốn)

Spring rolls are a refreshing and light dish that can be served as an appetizer or dinner. They are simple to prepare and perfect for beginners.

  • Ingredients:
    • Rice paper wrappers
    • 100g cooked shrimp or chicken
    • Fresh lettuce leaves
    • Fresh herbs (mint, cilantro)
    • Sliced carrots and cucumber
    • Dipping sauce (peanut or hoisin sauce)

Instructions:

  1. Soak rice paper wrappers in warm water for about 30 seconds until soft.
  2. Place a lettuce leaf, some shrimp or chicken, herbs, carrots, and cucumber on the wrapper.
  3. Tightly roll the wrapper, folding in the sides as you go.
  4. Serve with your preferred dipping sauce.

3. Stir-Fried Tofu with Vegetables

This stir-fried tofu dish is quick, healthy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner. It's packed with colorful vegetables and can easily be customized.

  • Ingredients:
    • 200g firm tofu, cubed
    • 1 bell pepper, sliced
    • 1 carrot, julienned
    • 1 cup broccoli florets
    • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
    • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
    • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Instructions:

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Add garlic and stir-fry until fragrant.
  3. Add tofu cubes and cook until golden brown on all sides.
  4. Introduce bell pepper, carrot, and broccoli, stir-frying until tender.
  5. Drizzle with soy sauce and stir well. Serve hot over rice.

4. Vietnamese Fried Rice (Cơm Chiên)

This effortless fried rice recipe utilizes leftover rice and can incorporate any vegetables or proteins you have on hand.

  • Ingredients:
    • 2 cups cooked rice
    • 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, corn, carrots)
    • 2 eggs, beaten
    • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
    • 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped
    • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Instructions: