The Best Local Vietnamese Dishes to Eat with Rice and Noodles

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and delightful variety. Among the many culinary gems, local dishes that incorporate rice and noodles stand out. Here's a closer look at some of the best local Vietnamese dishes you must try.

1. Phở (Vietnamese Noodle Soup)

Phở is perhaps the most famous Vietnamese dish worldwide. This fragrant noodle soup typically features beef or chicken, accompanied by flat rice noodles (bánh phở) in a savory broth filled with aromatic herbs and spices. Topped with fresh bean sprouts, basil, and lime, it’s a comforting meal that showcases the essence of Vietnamese cuisine.

2. Bún Chả (Grilled Pork with Noodles)

Bún Chả is a delightful dish that combines grilled pork patties and slices of pork belly served with bundles of rice noodles (bún). It's usually accompanied by a side of fresh herbs, lettuce, and a dipping sauce made from fish sauce. The contrasting textures and flavors make this a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

3. Cơm Tấm (Broken Rice)

Cơm Tấm is a popular street food item in Vietnam, particularly in Ho Chi Minh City. This dish features broken rice (tấm) served with grilled pork, shredded pork skin, and often an egg. The unique texture of the broken rice paired with the savory toppings creates a delightful dining experience.

4. Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese Sizzling Pancakes)

Bánh Xèo, or Vietnamese crepes, are made from rice flour, turmeric, and coconut milk. These crispy pancakes are stuffed with a variety of ingredients, including shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. Typically served with fresh lettuce and herbs for wrapping, it’s common to dip them in a tangy fish sauce that elevates the flavors.

5. Gỏi Cuốn (Vietnamese Spring Rolls)

Gỏi Cuốn, also known as fresh spring rolls or summer rolls, are a refreshing treat made of rice paper filled with shrimp, herbs, pork, rice noodles, and other fresh ingredients. Often served with a peanut or hoisin dipping sauce, these rolls are not only healthy but also bursting with flavor, making them a must-try.

6. Mi Quang (Quang Noodles)

Originating from the Quang Nam Province, Mi Quang is a flavorful noodle dish made with turmeric rice noodles, typically served with a combination of protein options like shrimp, pork, or chicken. It's often garnished with fresh herbs, peanuts, and crispy rice crackers, providing a rich and satisfying meal.

7. Cơm Gà (Chicken Rice)

Cơm Gà, or Vietnamese chicken rice, is a simple yet delicious dish made from poached or roasted chicken served over fragrant rice cooked in chicken broth. Accompanied by a side of fresh herbs, vegetables, and chili sauce, this dish highlights the fresh, flavorful ingredients common in Vietnamese cuisine.

8. Bún Thịt Nướng (Grilled Pork Noodles)

Bún Thịt Nướng is a delightful rice noodle dish topped with grilled marinated pork, fresh herbs, and peanuts. This meal is typically served with a tangy fish sauce or vinaigrette drizzled on top, delivering an explosion of flavors in every bite.

9. Cháo (Vietnamese Rice Porridge)

Cháo is a comforting rice porridge often enjoyed for breakfast or as a light meal. It's typically made with chicken or fish, offering a warm and soothing option that’s easily customizable with herbs and spices.

10. Bánh Cuốn (Steamed Rice Rolls)

Bánh Cuốn consists of delicate steamed rice rolls filled with minced pork and mushrooms. This dish is often served with fried shallots, fresh herbs, and a side of fish sauce for dipping, delivering a unique flavor combination that is loved by many.

When exploring Vietnamese cuisine, don't miss the opportunity to savor these delicious rice and noodle dishes. Each offers a unique taste of local culture and tradition, making them a highlight of any culinary journey in Vietnam.