A Guide to Traditional Vietnamese Dishes You Must Try

Vietnamese cuisine is a rich tapestry of flavors, aromas, and textures that reflect the country's history, geography, and culture. From fragrant herbs to freshly prepared ingredients, traditional Vietnamese dishes are a feast for the senses. If you're looking to explore this incredible culinary landscape, here is a guide to traditional Vietnamese dishes you must try.

1. Pho (Phở)
One of the most iconic dishes, Pho is a hearty noodle soup made with a savory broth, rice noodles, and typically beef or chicken. It is garnished with fresh herbs, lime, and chili, making it a perfect comfort food. Enjoy it at breakfast or any time of day!

2. Banh Mi (Bánh Mì)
This delicious Vietnamese sandwich combines French influences with local ingredients. A crispy baguette is filled with savory meats, pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and spicy sauces. Banh Mi is portable, flavorful, and an ideal street food option.

3. Goi Cuon (Gỏi Cuốn)
Also known as Vietnamese spring rolls or fresh spring rolls, Goi Cuon are made from rice paper wraps filled with shrimp, herbs, pork, rice vermicelli, and other ingredients. They are often served with a dipping sauce, making them a perfect light starter or snack.

4. Bun Cha (Bún Chả)
Bun Cha is a popular dish originating from Hanoi. It features grilled pork meatballs over a bed of vermicelli noodles, accompanied by fresh herbs, lettuce, and a dipping sauce. This dish perfectly balances smoky and sweet flavors.

5. Cao Lau (Cao Lầu)
A specialty from Hoi An, Cao Lau is a unique dish made with thick rice noodles, savory pork, fresh herbs, and a rich broth. The noodles have a distinctive chewiness thanks to the water source used, making them unlike any other noodle dish in Vietnam.

6. Mi Quang (Mì Quảng)
Originating from Quang Nam province, Mi Quang is a flavorful noodle dish made with wide rice noodles, shrimp, pork, and a small amount of rich broth. Topped with peanuts and fresh herbs, it captures the essence of Central Vietnamese cuisine.

7. Xoi (Xôi)
This traditional sticky rice dish can be served as a sweet or savory dish. Common varieties include Xoi Gai, steamed sticky rice with mung beans and fried shallots, and Xoi Xeo, sticky rice with yellow mung beans and fried shallots. It's a popular breakfast or snack option throughout Vietnam.

8. Chả Cá Lã Vọng
A unique dish from Hanoi, Chả Cá Lã Vọng features grilled fish seasoned with turmeric and dill, served with rice noodles and an array of fresh herbs. This fragrant dish showcases the stunning use of fresh ingredients in Vietnamese cooking.

9. Hu Tieu (Hủ Tiếu)
This noodle soup dish is often associated with southern Vietnam. Made with a clear and fragrant broth, Hu Tieu can include various proteins such as seafood, pork, or chicken, served with chewy rice noodles and garnished with herbs and lime.

10. Banh Xeo (Bánh Xèo)
Often referred to as Vietnamese pancakes, Banh Xeo are crispy rice flour pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and herbs. They are typically enjoyed with lettuce leaves and a hoisin or peanut dipping sauce.

Exploring traditional Vietnamese dishes is an adventure in itself. The balance of flavors and fresh ingredients makes each meal a unique experience. Whether you are dining in a local restaurant or experimenting at home, these dishes offer a taste of Vietnam’s vibrant culinary heritage. Don’t miss the opportunity to try these must-try Vietnamese dishes on your next culinary journey!