Must-Try Mezes from Vietnam’s Culinary Scene

Vietnam’s culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, colors, and textures that reflects the country’s rich culture and history. Among the many dishes to explore, mezes—small plates or appetizers—offer a delightful way to experience traditional Vietnamese cuisine. Here are some must-try mezes that you should not miss on your culinary adventure in Vietnam.

1. Gỏi Cuốn (Spring Rolls)
Gỏi cuốn, or Vietnamese spring rolls, are a refreshing appetizer filled with fresh vegetables, herbs, rice vermicelli, and often shrimp or pork. Wrapped in rice paper, these colorful rolls are typically served with a side of hoisin or peanut sauce for dipping. Their light texture and fresh taste make them a perfect start to any meal.

2. Chả Giò (Fried Spring Rolls)
Unlike their fresh counterpart, chả giò are crispy, deep-fried spring rolls filled with ground meat, mushrooms, and vermicelli noodles. Crispy on the outside and savory on the inside, these rolls are a popular appetizer and often enjoyed with nuoc cham, a tangy dipping sauce made from fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and chili.

3. Bánh Xèo (Sizzling Pancakes)
Bánh xèo, or Vietnamese sizzling pancakes, are made from rice flour and turmeric, giving them a vibrant yellow color. They are filled with ingredients like shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and green onions. Cooked until crispy, these pancakes are typically served with lettuce leaves and fresh herbs, allowing diners to create their own wraps for a burst of flavors.

4. Ngheu Hap Sa (Steamed Clams with Lemongrass)
Ngheu hap sa features clams steamed with fragrant lemongrass, garlic, and chili. This dish highlights the seafood bounty of Vietnam and is often enjoyed with a side of dipping sauce, making it a fantastic addition to any meze selection.

5. Bánh Trang Nướng (Vietnamese Pizza)
Known as Vietnamese pizza, bánh trang nướng is a unique culinary creation made from crispy rice paper topped with various ingredients like eggs, cheese, scallions, and meats. This dish is often cooked over an open flame, resulting in a smoky flavor that is hard to resist. It’s a popular street food snack that captures the essence of Vietnamese cuisine.

6. Đậu Hũ Chiên (Fried Tofu)
Đậu hũ chiên is a simple yet delicious dish featuring crispy fried tofu served with a side of sweet soy sauce or chili sauce. This vegetarian option is both satisfying and full of flavor, making it an excellent meze choice for both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.

7. Nem Nướng (Grilled Pork Sausages)
Nem nướng consists of grilled pork sausages that are often served on skewers. These mezes are paired with fresh vegetables and herbs, along with rice paper for wrapping, creating a flavorful combination that is both fun and interactive to eat.

8. Mít Trộn (Jackfruit Salad)
This refreshing salad features young jackfruit mixed with vegetables, herbs, and sometimes shrimp or pork. Mít trộn is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, offering a unique twist to the typical salad. Its vibrant colors and textures make it an appealing meze to share.

Conclusion
Exploring the mezes of Vietnam is a journey worth taking, as each dish tells a story of flavor and tradition. Whether you are dining in a bustling street market or a cozy restaurant, these must-try mezes showcase the best of Vietnamese culinary artistry. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in these delightful appetizers and savor the essence of Vietnam’s rich cuisine.