Best Mezes for a Vietnamese Food Feast

Vietnamese cuisine is a delightful blend of flavors, textures, and colors, making it an excellent choice for a feast. One of the best ways to experience the essence of Vietnamese food is through its mezes, or small dishes, that encourage sharing and tasting. If you’re planning a Vietnamese food feast, here are some of the best mezes to include that will tantalize your taste buds.

1. Gỏi Cuốn (Vietnamese Spring Rolls)

Gỏi Cuốn, or fresh spring rolls, are a must-have at any Vietnamese food gathering. These rolls are typically made with rice paper and filled with shrimp, herbs, pork, rice noodles, and other ingredients. They are served with a dipping sauce that often consists of hoisin or peanut sauce, elevating their flavor and appeal.

2. Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese Pancakes)

Bánh Xèo are savory Vietnamese pancakes that are crispy on the outside and filled with a delectable mix of shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. These pancakes are best served hot and are often wrapped in lettuce leaves and dipped in a tangy fish sauce for an explosion of flavor in every bite.

3. Chả Giò (Vietnamese Fried Spring Rolls)

Chả Giò, also known as Vietnamese fried spring rolls, are crispy golden rolls filled with a mixture of ground meat, mushrooms, and vegetables. They are deep-fried to perfection and served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce, making them a popular addition to any feast.

4. Bò Lá Lốt (Grilled Beef in Betel Leaves)

Bò Lá Lốt features minced beef wrapped in betel leaves and grilled until tender. The aromatic leaves infuse the meat with a unique flavor that is both earthy and fragrant. These small parcels are often served with a dipping sauce and are perfect for sharing.

5. Nộm (Vietnamese Salad)

Nộm is a refreshing Vietnamese salad made with shredded vegetables, such as carrots and cabbage, tossed with fresh herbs, peanuts, and a zesty dressing. This salad is not only healthy but also provides a vibrant and crunchy contrast to the other dishes on your feast table.

6. Tôm Nướng (Grilled Shrimp)

Tôm Nướng is a crowd-pleaser, featuring marinated shrimp that are skewered and grilled until charred and smoky. With a combination of sweet and savory flavors, these grilled shrimp make a perfect starter or small plate to share among guests.

7. Ngọc Cụt (Pickled Vegetables)

Ngọc Cụt, or pickled vegetables, add a tangy crunch to any Vietnamese meal. Typically prepared with daikon, carrots, and other seasonal vegetables, these pickles act as a palate cleanser and complement richer dishes beautifully.

8. Mực Nướng (Grilled Squid)

Mực Nướng consists of tender squid marinated in a blend of spices and grilled to perfection. The result is a smoky, flavorful dish that can be served with a variety of dipping sauces. This seafood option adds an exciting element to your feast.

When planning your Vietnamese food feast, incorporating these delightful mezes will surely impress your guests and create an enjoyable dining experience. Sharing these small plates encourages interaction and allows everyone to taste a bit of everything, amplifying the communal spirit of Vietnamese cuisine.