The Essential Vietnamese Mezes You Should Know About

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its fresh ingredients and bold flavors, and one of the best ways to experience this culinary delight is through its mezes, or small dishes. These flavorful bites are perfect for sharing and often showcase the diverse ingredients and cooking techniques of Vietnam. Here are some essential Vietnamese mezes you should know about:

1. Goi Cuon (Spring Rolls)
Goi Cuon, or fresh spring rolls, are a staple in Vietnamese cuisine. Made with rice paper wrappers, these rolls are filled with a mixture of shrimp, herbs, and vermicelli noodles, served with a side of peanut or hoisin dipping sauce. Their light and refreshing taste makes them a perfect starter for any meal.

2. Cha Gio (Fried Spring Rolls)
Contrasting the fresh version, Cha Gio are crispy fried spring rolls, often packed with a delectable filling of ground pork, mushrooms, and vegetables. Their crunchy exterior and juicy inside, usually served with lettuce and herbs for wrapping, offer a delightful texture that is sure to please any palate.

3. Banh Mi
This Vietnamese sandwich is a fusion of French and Vietnamese cultures, featuring a crispy baguette filled with savory ingredients like grilled meats, pickled vegetables, fresh cilantro, and a spread of mayo or pate. Banh Mi can be enjoyed as a quick snack or a light meal, showcasing the flavors of Vietnam in every bite.

4. Nem Nuong (Grilled Pork Skewers)
These succulent grilled pork skewers are a popular street food item in Vietnam. Made with marinated pork and grilled to perfection, Nem Nuong is often served with rice paper and an assortment of fresh herbs and vegetables. Diners can create their own wraps, adding a personal touch to the dining experience.

5. Xoi (Sticky Rice)
Xoi, or sticky rice, is a versatile dish that can be served sweet or savory. Often topped with ingredients like mung beans, fried shallots, or grilled chicken, this dish is a popular choice for breakfast or as a side dish to complement other mezes.

6. Bo La Lot (Grilled Beef in Betel Leaves)
Bo La Lot is a unique Vietnamese dish featuring seasoned beef rolled in betel leaves and grilled. The aromatic leaves impart a distinct flavor to the meat, making it a must-try for adventurous eaters. Served with vermicelli noodles and various herbs, this dish is a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

7. Canh Chua (Sour Soup)
This sweet and tangy soup is a delightful offering that showcases the bold flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. Made with fish, tamarind, and a variety of vegetables, Canh Chua is not only delicious but also refreshing, making it a great complement to other mezes.

8. Banh Xeo (Vietnamese Pancakes)
Banh Xeo, or Vietnamese pancakes, are savory crepes filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and a sprinkle of green onions. These pancakes are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, often served with lettuce and herbs for wrapping, adding an enjoyable crunch and freshness to each bite.

9. Dua Muoi (Pickled Vegetables)
A common accompaniment to many Vietnamese dishes, Dua Muoi refers to pickled vegetables such as carrots and daikon radish. These tangy bites provide a wonderful contrast to the richness of other mezes, balancing flavors and enhancing the overall dining experience.

10. Che (Sweet Dessert Soup)
This traditional Vietnamese dessert comes in various forms, made with ingredients like beans, glutinous rice, and coconut milk. Che is often enjoyed as a sweet end to a meal, offering a refreshing taste that perfectly sums up the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine.

Exploring Vietnamese mezes provides a delightful opportunity to savor the country's rich culinary heritage. Whether you're sharing with friends or enjoying a solo meal, these dishes are sure to leave a lasting impression and introduce you to the incredible flavors of Vietnam.