Must-Try Sweet and Sour Mezes in Vietnam

Vietnam is a country renowned for its vibrant and diverse cuisine, with sweet and sour flavors playing a pivotal role in many traditional dishes. Among these, mezes, or small plates, offer a delightful way to experience a variety of tastes. Here are some must-try sweet and sour mezes that you should not miss when visiting Vietnam.

1. Goi Cuon (Vietnamese Spring Rolls)
Goi Cuon, or fresh spring rolls, are a staple in Vietnamese cuisine. These delightful rolls are typically made with rice paper, fresh herbs, shrimp, and pork, accompanied by a sweet and tangy dipping sauce made from peanut or hoisin sauce mixed with lime juice and chili. The fresh ingredients, combined with the sauce, create a perfect balance of sweetness and sourness.

2. Cha Gio (Vietnamese Fried Spring Rolls)
For those who prefer something crispy, Cha Gio is a must. These fried spring rolls are filled with a mixture of ground meat, mushrooms, and vegetables. They are often served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce called nuoc cham, which features fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and chili. The combination of the crunchy exterior and the zesty sauce is utterly irresistible.

3. Salad Hoa Qua (Fruit Salad)
Vietnamese fruit salad, known as Salad Hoa Qua, is a refreshing meze that perfectly embodies the sweet and sour flavor profile. This dish typically includes a mix of tropical fruits such as mango, papaya, and pineapple, combined with lime juice, chili, and sugar. The sweetness of the fruits, balanced by the acidity of lime and a hint of spice, makes it a popular choice in street food markets and restaurants alike.

4. Naut (Pickled Vegetables)
Naut is a traditional Vietnamese pickled vegetable dish that usually features carrots, daikon radish, and other seasonal vegetables. These pickles are marinated in a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and salt, resulting in a tangy, sweet flavor that enhances many main dishes. Serving Naut as a meze not only provides a satisfying crunch but also a burst of acidity to balance rich flavors.

5. Banh Xeo (Vietnamese Sizzling Pancakes)
Banh Xeo, or Vietnamese sizzling pancakes, are a savory treat made from rice flour, turmeric, and coconut milk. Traditionally filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, these pancakes are served with a side of fresh herbs and a sweet and sour dipping sauce. The contrast of the hot, crispy pancake with the cool, refreshing herbs creates a delightful tasting experience.

6. Thit Kho Trung (Braised Pork with Eggs)
This comforting dish consists of pork belly slow-cooked with eggs in a caramelized sauce made of sugar, fish sauce, and coconut juice. The sweet and salty flavors meld beautifully, and the dish is often served with steamed rice and fresh vegetables. Thit Kho Trung is a household favorite and a perfect representation of the sweet and sour cuisine that Vietnam is famous for.

7. Bun Bo Nam Bo (Southern Beef Noodle Salad)
Bun Bo Nam Bo is a delicious Southern Vietnamese noodle salad featuring beef, vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and peanuts. The dish is usually drizzled with a sweet and sour sauce made from fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar, which elevates the flavors and provides a delightful zing to each bite.

Exploring Vietnam's sweet and sour mezes is an unforgettable culinary adventure. Each dish offers a unique combination of flavors that highlights the freshness and diversity of Vietnamese ingredients. Whether you're dining at a bustling street market or a traditional restaurant, be sure to savor these delightful treats during your visit to this exquisite Southeast Asian country.