A Journey Through Vietnam’s Mezes and Small Plates

Vietnam is a culinary delight, richly known for its vibrant flavors and aromatic dishes. Among the diverse offerings, mezes and small plates play a crucial role in Vietnamese dining culture, allowing food enthusiasts to indulge in a variety of tastes and textures. This article will take you on a journey through some of the most popular mezes and small plates in Vietnam, showcasing the essence of Vietnamese cuisine.

1. Gỏi cuốn (Spring Rolls)
Gỏi cuốn, or Vietnamese spring rolls, are a must-try when exploring Vietnamese mezes. These fresh rolls are made with rice paper and stuffed with a combination of shrimp, herbs, rice vermicelli, and sometimes pork. They are often served with a luscious peanut sauce or a tangy hoisin dip, making for a refreshing starter that perfectly encapsulates the balance of flavors that Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated for.

2. Chả giò (Fried Spring Rolls)
In contrast to the fresh spring rolls, chả giò offers a crispy, deep-fried experience. These rolls are typically filled with ground pork, mushrooms, carrots, and vermicelli noodles. The outer layer is crispy, while the inside is hot and bursting with flavor. Often served with lettuce and herbs, diners can wrap the fried rolls and dip them in nuoc cham, a traditional Vietnamese dipping sauce made with fish sauce, lime, sugar, and chili.

3. Bánh xèo (Sizzling Pancakes)
Bánh xèo are savory pancakes made from rice flour, turmeric, and coconut milk, filled with ingredients like shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. These golden pancakes are crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, often served with a variety of fresh herbs and lettuce leaves. To enjoy, you tear off pieces of the bánh xèo, wrap them in lettuce, and dip them into nuoc cham for a delicious flavor explosion.

4. Nem nướng (Grilled Pork Sausage)
Nem nướng is a popular street food that consists of grilled pork sausages, which are often served on skewers. These flavorful sausages are typically made from minced pork mixed with spices and are grilled to perfection. Served with vermicelli noodles, chopped herbs, and a rich peanut sauce, nem nướng is a delightful small plate that showcases the smoky, sweet, and savory flavors that define many Vietnamese dishes.

5. Đậu hủ chiên (Fried Tofu)
For a vegetarian option, đậu hủ chiên, or fried tofu, is a fantastic choice. This dish features crispy cubes of tofu that are golden brown and served alongside a sweet and tangy dipping sauce. Often garnished with fresh herbs, fried tofu is not only nutritious but also packed with protein, making it a satisfying small plate for everyone.

6. Bánh tráng cuốn thịt heo (Pork and Rice Paper Rolls)
Bánh tráng cuốn thịt heo is another iconic small plate. This dish involves rice paper filled with boiled pork, fresh vegetables, and herbs, all rolled up tightly. It is often accompanied by a flavorful dipping sauce, enhancing the freshness of the ingredients. The combination of textures and spices creates a lovely balance that is quintessential to Vietnamese cuisine.

7. Mực nướng (Grilled Squid)
Grilled squid, or mực nướng, is a popular seafood dish in Vietnam. Marinated with spices and grilled over an open flame, the squid takes on a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with a spicy dipping sauce. Served with fresh herbs and lime wedges, it’s a delightful treat for seafood lovers. This dish is often enjoyed as a small plate, making it perfect for sharing.

8. Xôi (Sticky Rice)
Xôi, or sticky rice, can also appear as a small plate, especially when served with various toppings. This versatile dish can be sweet or savory, often accompanied by mung beans, peanuts, or grilled meat. Xôi can be found in many variations across the country, making it a beloved staple that represents comfort food in Vietnamese culture.

Exploring Vietnam’s mezes and small plates is an adventure filled with flavors, aromas, and textures. Each dish tells a story, encapsulating the country's rich culinary heritage and inviting you to experience the communal joy of dining. Whether you're savoring fresh spring rolls or indulging in crispy fried tofu, these small plates reflect the essence of Vietnam—a celebration of fresh ingredients and harmonious flavors.