The Best Vietnamese Soups to Make for Dinner Parties

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and textures, with soups playing a central role in many meals. Their rich taste profiles and aromatic ingredients make them a delightful option for dinner parties. Here’s a list of the best Vietnamese soups that will impress your guests and elevate your dining experience.

1. Pho (Phở)

Perhaps the most iconic Vietnamese soup, Pho is a fragrant broth made with beef or chicken, paired with flat rice noodles and garnished with fresh herbs. To prepare Pho for your dinner party, simmer beef bones for several hours with star anise, cinnamon, ginger, and onion to create a depth of flavor. Serve it hot, allowing guests to customize their bowls with bean sprouts, lime, basil, and chili.

2. Bun Bo Hue (Bún Bò Huế)

This spicy beef noodle soup hails from Hue, Vietnam, and offers a distinct kick that will tantalize the taste buds of your guests. Bun Bo Hue features round rice noodles soaked in a savory broth flavored with lemongrass, shrimp paste, and chili. Top the soup with slices of beef, pork and a generous serving of fresh herbs and lime to complete this delicious dish.

3. Canh Chua (Canh Chua)

Canh Chua is a sour soup from the Mekong Delta region, typically made with fish, pineapple, and fresh vegetables. The key to this soup is the tamarind base, which provides a unique sourness. Serve it with rice and let your guests enjoy the refreshing combination of flavors! Add some fresh herbs like cilantro and Thai basil for an aromatic finish.

4. Mien Luon (Miến Lươn)

This lesser-known dish features glass noodles and eel in a light, savory broth. Mien Luon is often garnished with fresh herbs, fried shallots, and lime, making it a delightful and unique addition to your dinner party menu. The combination of eels, noodles, and aromatic herbs creates a lovely balance that will impress your guests.

5. Sườn Nướng Sả Nước Dừa (Grilled Pork Rib Soup)

This soup combines the flavors of grilled pork ribs marinated in lemongrass with a rich coconut broth. The ribs add an excellent smoky flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of coconut. Serve it hot, alongside a platter of fresh beansprouts and herbs to enhance its appeal. Your guests will enjoy this savory dish’s unique blend of tastes.

6. Chao (Cháo)

Chao is a comforting Vietnamese rice porridge that can be customized with various proteins, such as chicken, fish, or pork. It's especially great for cooler evenings. The broth is prepared by simmering rice with water or broth until it becomes creamy. Top it with scallions, fried garlic, and herbs to create a soothing and hearty dish that will warm your guests from the inside out.

When planning a dinner party, serving Vietnamese soups can add a warm and inviting atmosphere to your gathering. These soups not only satisfy cravings but also offer a cultural journey through Vietnam’s culinary heritage. With their fragrant aromas and enticing flavors, your dinner party will undoubtedly be a memorable event!