The Best Mezes to Pair with Traditional Vietnamese Rice Dishes

Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. One of the highlights of this culinary tradition is the unique combination of rice dishes with delectable mezes (appetizers or side dishes). Below are some of the best mezes to enhance your experience when enjoying traditional Vietnamese rice dishes.

1. Gỏi Cuốn (Vietnamese Spring Rolls)
These fresh spring rolls are made with rice paper, filled with shrimp, herbs, and vermicelli noodles. They are light yet flavorful and provide a refreshing contrast to the often hearty rice dishes. Serve them with a dipping sauce like hoisin or peanut sauce for an extra flavor kick.

2. Chả Giò (Fried Spring Rolls)
Unlike their fresh counterparts, chả giò are crispy fried rolls filled with a mixture of ground pork, mushrooms, and vegetables. The crunchiness of these rolls pairs perfectly with softer rice dishes like cơm tấm (broken rice), adding an exciting textural element to the meal.

3. Đậu Hũ Chiên (Fried Tofu)
This vegetarian option provides a protein-rich complement to rice dishes. The tofu is marinated and then fried to crispy perfection, often served with a side of sweet chili sauce. Its savory flavor enhances the overall taste profile and works wonderfully with sticky rice dishes.

4. Nộm (Vietnamese Slaw)
This crunchy salad, typically made with green papaya or cabbage, is dressed with tangy fish sauce or lime vinaigrette. Nộm adds a refreshing and acidic element that cuts through the richness of dishes such as cơm gà (chicken rice), making it an ideal pairing.

5. Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese Pancakes)
These savory pancakes are filled with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts, and are often served with fresh herbs and lettuce for wrapping. The combination of flavors and textures elevates any rice dish, especially fragrant bowls of rice with simple grilled proteins.

6. Ngó Sen Xào (Stir-Fried Lotus Stem)
This unique dish features lotus stem that is stir-fried with mushrooms and herbs. Its crunchy and slightly sweet flavor complements rice dishes effortlessly, providing a delightful balance. Enjoy it alongside white rice or fried rice for a well-rounded meal.

7. Mắm Tôm Chấm (Shrimp Paste Dipping Sauce)
This robust dipping sauce, made from fermented shrimp paste, adds intense flavor to various rice dishes. It is often paired with fried or grilled meats, enhancing the taste of rice with its umami richness. Just a small spoonful can elevate your dining experience significantly.

8. Xoài Xanh (Green Mango Salad)
This vibrant salad features shredded green mango mixed with nuts, herbs, and a tangy dressing. The tartness of the mango offers a bright counterpoint to the more fulfilling rice dishes, making it a refreshing side that cuts through the meal's richness.

Pairing these mezes with traditional Vietnamese rice dishes not only enhances the meal but also introduces a variety of flavors and textures that are characteristic of Vietnamese cuisine. Whether you're hosting a dinner or enjoying a meal with family, these mezes are sure to impress and provide an unforgettable dining experience.