How to Cook Vietnam’s Best Local Dishes at Home

If you’re looking to bring the vibrant flavors of Vietnam into your kitchen, you're in the right place. Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its fresh ingredients, umami-rich flavors, and balanced harmony of sweet, salty, sour, and spicy. In this guide, we'll walk you through how to cook some of Vietnam's best local dishes right at home.

1. Pho: The Famous Vietnamese Noodle Soup

Pho is perhaps the most celebrated dish of Vietnam, consisting of a fragrant broth, rice noodles, and a variety of toppings.

  • Ingredients: Beef or chicken, rice noodles (bánh phở), fresh herbs (basil, cilantro), bean sprouts, lime, and chili.
  • Instructions:
    1. Start by simmering beef bones or chicken in a pot of water for several hours to create a rich broth.
    2. Add spices such as star anise, cloves, and cinnamon for depth of flavor.
    3. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions.
    4. Serve the noodles in a bowl, ladle the hot broth over, and top with your choice of meat and herbs.

2. Bánh Mì: The Iconic Vietnamese Sandwich

Bánh mì combines French and Vietnamese influences, resulting in a unique and delicious sandwich.

  • Ingredients: Baguette, pickled vegetables (carrots and daikon), cucumber, cilantro, chili, your choice of protein (pork, chicken, or tofu).
  • Instructions:
    1. Start by picking your protein and marinating it. Grilled pork is a popular choice.
    2. Slice the baguette and warm it in the oven.
    3. Layer on the protein, add pickled vegetables, fresh cucumber, cilantro, and a drizzle of mayo or chili sauce before closing.

3. Gỏi Cuốn: Fresh Spring Rolls

These refreshing spring rolls are perfect as an appetizer or a light meal.

  • Ingredients: Rice paper, shrimp or tofu, lettuce, mint, cilantro, and vermicelli noodles.
  • Instructions:
    1. Soften the rice paper in warm water until pliable.
    2. On the paper, place a layer of lettuce, herbs, a few shrimp or strips of tofu, and cooked vermicelli noodles.
    3. Wrap tightly, tucking in the sides as you roll, and serve with peanut or hoisin sauce.

4. Chả Giò: Vietnamese Fried Spring Rolls

Chả giò, or Vietnamese fried spring rolls, offer a crispy treat filled with savory goodness.

  • Ingredients: Rice paper, ground pork, mushrooms, carrots, and garlic.
  • Instructions:
    1. Mix ground pork with chopped vegetables and seasonings.
    2. Form small amounts of the mixture into the rice paper and roll tightly.
    3. Deep-fry until golden brown and serve with a dipping sauce for an irresistible crunch.

5. Cà Ri: Vietnamese Curry

Vietnamese curry is a fragrant and rich dish that can be made with chicken or vegetables.

  • Ingredients: Chicken, coconut milk, potatoes, carrots, curry powder, and lemongrass.
  • Instructions:
    1. Saute garlic and onions until fragrant. Add curry powder and lemongrass.
    2. Introduce chicken pieces and sear until cooked through.
    3. Pour in coconut milk and add chopped potatoes and carrots. Simmer until everything is tender.
    4. Serve with steamed rice for a comforting meal.

Cooking Vietnamese dishes at home is a wonderful way to explore the country’s vibrant culture. With these recipes, you can enjoy the delicious tastes of Vietnam right in your