The Best Vietnamese Dinner Dishes to Share with Family

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors, fresh ingredients, and vibrant colors, making it an excellent choice for family dinners. When gathered around the table, nothing brings people closer than sharing a variety of delicious dishes. Here’s a roundup of the best Vietnamese dinner dishes that are perfect for sharing with family.

1. Phở

Phở is undoubtedly one of the most iconic Vietnamese dishes. This fragrant noodle soup consists of a savory broth, rice noodles, herbs, and a choice of beef or chicken. It’s an engaging dish that encourages sharing as everyone can customize their bowl with various toppings like bean sprouts, basil, lime, and chili. Serving phở at the dinner table allows families to bond over the preparation and personalization of their meals.

2. Bánh Xèo

Bánh Xèo, or Vietnamese sizzling pancakes, are crispy crepes filled with pork, shrimp, bean sprouts, and green onions. These pancakes are fun to eat and are traditionally served with lettuce leaves and fresh herbs for wrapping. Creating your own bite-sized pieces makes for an interactive and enjoyable family dinner experience.

3. Gỏi Cuốn

Gỏi Cuốn, or fresh spring rolls, are light and refreshing, packed with shrimp, herbs, lettuce, and rice vermicelli, all wrapped in rice paper. Dipping these rolls in a rich peanut or hoisin sauce adds an extra dimension to each bite. Family members can join in the assembly process, making it both a fun and tasty activity.

4. Cơm Tấm

Cơm Tấm, or broken rice, is often served with grilled pork, but it can also be accompanied by various meats or tofu options. The dish is served with a side of pickled vegetables and a fried egg, making it not only flavorful but visually appealing. Family members can share a platter of cơm tấm, trying different proteins and flavors in one meal.

5. Lẩu

Lẩu, or Vietnamese hot pot, is a fantastic communal dish perfect for family gatherings. Diners place a variety of vegetables, meats, and seafood into a bubbling pot of broth, creating a flavorful meal right at the table. The experience of cooking together while chatting over steaming bowls of broth fosters connection and joy among family members.

6. Bò Né

Bò Né, a sizzling beef dish, is served on a hot plate with eggs, garlic, and herbs. This dish is visually appealing and offers an exciting cooking experience as it arrives at the table still sizzling. Sharing bò né allows families to enjoy each other’s company while savoring the delicious flavors that emerge from the hot plate.

7. Chả Giò

Chả giò, or Vietnamese fried spring rolls, are crispy rolls filled with ground pork, shrimp, and vegetables. These golden-brown delights are often served with lettuce and herbs for wrapping, along with a dipping sauce that enhances their crunchiness and flavor. Sharing a platter of chả giò brings a sense of tradition, as they are often made for celebrations and gatherings.

8. Cà Ri Gà

Cà ri gà, or Vietnamese chicken curry, is a hearty dish made with chicken, coconut milk, and a variety of aromatic spices. This comforting dish can be served with bread or steamed rice. It encourages families to gather around the table, scooping up the flavorful curry together and enjoying each other’s presence.

Sharing these delightful Vietnamese dinner dishes not only satisfies the palate but also nurtures the spirit of togetherness within families. Whether it's a special occasion or a casual meal, these dishes make for a memorable dining experience that everyone will cherish.