The Top Cold Mezes You’ll Find in Vietnam

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, and one of the highlights of this culinary tradition is its array of cold mezes. These dishes, typically served as appetizers or side dishes, showcase the unique blend of herbs, spices, and textures that define Vietnamese food. Below are some of the top cold mezes you’ll find in Vietnam.

1. Gỏi Cuốn (Spring Rolls)

Gỏi cuốn, or Vietnamese spring rolls, are a favorite among locals and tourists alike. These fresh rolls are made with rice paper wrapped around a combination of shrimp, pork, vermicelli noodles, and fresh herbs. They are typically served cold, accompanied by a savory hoisin-peanut sauce for dipping. The contrast of textures, from the crisp vegetables to the soft noodles, makes gỏi cuốn a refreshing and healthy appetizer.

2. Gỏi Đu Đủ (Papaya Salad)

Gỏi đu đủ is a popular Vietnamese salad that highlights the crunchiness of green papaya. This dish usually includes shredded papaya, carrots, fresh herbs, and peanuts, all tossed together with a tangy dressing made from lime juice, fish sauce, and chili. The result is a vibrant salad that's both refreshing and packed with flavor, making it an excellent choice for a light meal or appetizer.

3. Nộm bò khô (Dried Beef Salad)

Nộm bò khô is a delightful cold salad that features shredded dried beef, green mango, and a medley of herbs and vegetables. The dish is dressed with a zesty mixture of lime juice, fish sauce, and chili, highlighting the savory, sweet, and sour flavors characteristic of Vietnamese cuisine. This salad is a perfect combination of textures and flavors, making it a popular choice in many Vietnamese restaurants.

4. Chả Giò (Fried Spring Rolls)

While not technically cold, chả giò are often served at room temperature and make a delicious addition to any meal. These deep-fried rolls are filled with a mixture of pork, shrimp, mushrooms, and vegetables, all wrapped in a crispy rice paper shell. Chả giò is usually accompanied by lettuce leaves and fresh herbs, allowing diners to wrap and enjoy them with a variety of condiments.

5. Cà Tím Nướng (Grilled Eggplant)

Cà tím nướng is a simple yet flavorful cold dish that features grilled eggplant. The eggplant is char-grilled until tender and smoky, then drizzled with a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil. This dish is often garnished with fresh herbs, enhancing its earthy flavors and making it a must-try for vegetarians and eggplant lovers alike.

6. Bánh Tráng cuốn thịt heo (Pork and Rice Paper Rolls)

Bánh tráng cuốn thịt heo consists of thinly sliced boiled pork belly rolled with rice paper, fresh herbs, and crispy vegetables. Served with a flavor-packed dipping sauce, this dish combines the richness of the pork with the freshness of the greens. Its presentation and versatility make bánh tráng cuốn a popular choice for gatherings and celebrations.

7. Xoài lắc (Spicy Mango Salad)

Xoài lắc is another tantalizing salad made from thinly sliced green mango, tossed with chili, salt, and sometimes shrimp or crab. The combination of the tart mango and the spicy seasoning makes for an incredibly refreshing dish, perfect for hot days. Often served as a snack or side dish, it packs a punch that is beloved by many.

Exploring Vietnam's cold mezes offers a flavorful journey through its culinary landscape. Each dish captures the essence of fresh ingredients and bold flavors, making them unforgettable appetizers. Whether you're sampling them at a local restaurant or preparing them at home, these top cold mezes are sure to delight your taste buds.