The Best Vietnamese Mezes to Pair with Local Dishes

Vietnamese cuisine is rich in flavors and textures, and it’s often accompanied by a variety of mezes that complement local dishes beautifully. Mezes, or small plates often served as appetizers, can elevate your dining experience, allowing you to savor a medley of tastes. Here’s a guide to the best Vietnamese mezes to pair with local dishes.

1. Goi Cuon (Spring Rolls)
Goi Cuon, also known as Vietnamese spring rolls, are fresh and light. Made with rice paper, shrimp, pork, herbs, and rice noodles, these rolls are perfect as a side to heavier dishes like Pho or Bun Bo Hue. Dip them in a tangy nuoc cham sauce for added flavor.

2. Cha Gio (Fried Spring Rolls)
For a richer experience, go for Cha Gio, the fried counterpart to Goi Cuon. Filled with minced pork, mushrooms, and vermicelli, these crispy rolls pair wonderfully with rice dishes. They add a crunchy texture that complements soft, sticky rice.

3. Banh Xeo (Vietnamese Pancakes)
Banh Xeo are savory pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, characterized by their crispy edges and a soft center. They work well alongside local favorites like Hu Tieu. Eating them wrapped in lettuce enhances the flavor and freshness.

4. Dau Hu Sot Ca (Tofu with Fish Sauce)
This simple yet exquisite dish of tofu drizzled with fish sauce and garnished with green onions offers a salty and savory contrast to many complex noodle dishes. It's particularly delicious when enjoyed with a bowl of steaming rice.

5. Xoai (Green Mango Salad)
Bring a burst of freshness to your meal with a green mango salad. Often garnished with peanuts and chilies, this zesty meze pairs perfectly with grilled meats like Thit Nuong (grilled pork), helping to balance the richness with its tartness.

6. Prawn Chips (Banh Phong Tom)
These crunchy snacks made from tapioca flour and shrimp make for a delightful meze that adds texture to your meal. Ideal for snacking alongside a bowl of Pho, these chips highlight the soup’s flavors without overpowering them.

7. Kimchi (Vietnamese Style)
Vietnamese kimchi, often made with cabbage and carrots, differs from its Korean counterpart but is equally delicious. Its fermented tanginess pairs beautifully with grilled or fried dishes, providing a wholesome balance to the meal.

8. Mien Luon (Eel Noodle Salad)
Mien Luon features vermicelli noodles topped with grilled eel and fresh vegetables. This dish serves as a refreshing counterpart to hearty meat dishes, bringing a delightful mix of textures and a clean taste.

9. Chao Tom (Grilled Shrimp Paste)
Chao Tom consists of shrimp paste wrapped around sugarcane, grilled to perfection. The sweet and smoky flavors of this dish make it an excellent complement to rice dishes, enhancing every bite.

10. Canh Chua (Hot and Sour Soup)
Although primarily a soup, Canh Chua can be viewed as a light meze that sets the stage for a meal. Its sour and tangy profile enhances the flavors of more savory dishes while cleansing the palate.

By incorporating these delicious Vietnamese mezes into your dining experience, you’ll enhance the flavors of local dishes and discover the diversity of Vietnam's culinary offerings. Each small plate brings its unique character, ensuring an unforgettable culinary journey.