A Foodie’s Guide to Vietnam’s Most Popular Mezes

Vietnam, celebrated for its rich culinary heritage, offers a plethora of mouthwatering mezes that cater to every palate. These small dishes, ideal for sharing, reflect the country's vibrant flavors and local ingredients. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, Vietnam's mezes provide an unforgettable taste experience. Here’s a guide to the most popular mezes you must try!

1. Gỏi cuốn (Spring Rolls)
Gỏi cuốn, or fresh spring rolls, are a staple of Vietnamese cuisine. Typically made with rice noodles, shrimp, pork, herbs, and a touch of mint, they are wrapped in delicate rice paper. Served with a tangy peanut or hoisin sauce, these rolls are a refreshing start to any meal. Ideal for a light lunch or as an appetizer, they offer a perfect balance of crunchy and savory flavors.

2. Bánh xèo (Vietnamese Sizzling Pancakes)
Bánh xèo are savory pancakes made from rice flour, turmeric, and coconut milk. This delightful dish is filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and onions. The pancakes are pan-fried until crispy and are typically served with lettuce leaves and fresh herbs, enabling diners to create their own wraps. Dipped in a sweet and sour fish sauce, bánh xèo offers a unique combination of textures and tastes.

3. Chả giò (Fried Spring Rolls)
Chả giò, unlike their fresh counterparts, are deep-fried spring rolls filled with a mixture of ground meat, mushrooms, and vegetables. These crispy rolls are golden-brown and packed with flavor, making them an irresistible snack or appetizer. Served with a variety of dipping sauces, including fish sauce and chili vinegar, chả giò makes a perfect meze for sharing.

4. Nem chua (Fermented Pork Rolls)
Nems chua is a unique Vietnamese delicacy made from fermented pork, garlic, and spices, wrapped in banana leaves. This dish has a distinctive sour flavor, which is complemented by fresh herbs and hot chili peppers. Often served as a snack or as part of a larger meal, nem chua showcases the traditional fermentation techniques found in Vietnamese cuisine.

5. Bún chả (Grilled Pork with Noodles)
Bún chả is a beloved dish consisting of grilled pork patties and slices served with rice vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a bowl of dipping sauce. This dish is commonly enjoyed in northern Vietnam, particularly in Hanoi, where locals often savor it for lunch. Combining sweet, smoky flavors with fresh herbs makes bún chả a must-try meze.

6. Các loại hải sản (Seafood Dishes)
Vietnam’s extensive coastline means an abundance of fresh seafood. Popular mezes include fried squid, grilled octopus, and shrimp marinated in lemongrass. These dishes are often served with spicy dipping sauces and are perfect for sharing among a group. Seafood mezes embody the freshness and vibrancy of Vietnamese coastal cuisine.

7. Rau muống xào tỏi (Stir-Fried Water Spinach with Garlic)
For a healthier option, rau muống xào tỏi is a fantastic meze featuring water spinach sautéed with garlic. This simple yet flavorful dish beautifully highlights the freshness of the ingredients. Perfectly cooked to retain its crunch, it pairs well with other mezes, offering a refreshing contrast to richer dishes.

Exploring Vietnam's diverse and delectable mezes is an essential part of any culinary journey. From the refreshing gỏi cuốn to the crispy chả giò, each dish brings a unique taste of this vibrant country. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy these flavorful bites at local markets and restaurants, where you can experience the heart of Vietnamese culture through its food.