The Best Seafood Dishes in Vietnam You Must Try

Vietnam is renowned for its vibrant cuisine, with seafood holding a special place in the hearts of food enthusiasts. Coastal regions teeming with fresh catches provide an abundance of delicious options. If you’re planning a culinary adventure, here are the best seafood dishes in Vietnam that you simply must try.

1. Pho Hai San (Seafood Pho)
Unlike the traditional beef or chicken pho, seafood pho is a delightful variant featuring shrimp, squid, and fish in a fragrant broth. This dish is often garnished with fresh herbs and bean sprouts, creating a refreshing and satisfying meal.

2. Bun Rieu (Crab Noodle Soup)
Bun Rieu is a delicious noodle soup made with a soup base of tomatoes and crab. Often accompanied by minced crab meat, tofu, and sometimes snails, this dish offers a unique blend of flavors that perfectly encapsulate the essence of Vietnamese cuisine.

3. Cha Muc (Squid Pâté)
This specialty from the coastal city of Hoi An features minced squid mixed with herbs and spices, then shaped into patties and grilled to perfection. Served with rice or as a filling in banh mi, Cha Muc is a must-try for seafood lovers.

4. Muc Xao Sa Ot (Spicy Stir-Fried Squid)
For those who crave a bit of heat, Muc Xao Sa Ot is the answer. This dish combines squid with aromatic lemongrass and chilies, creating a tantalizing stir-fry that is often served with rice. With its bold flavors, it is a true representation of Vietnamese gastronomy.

5. Ngao (Clams)
Fresh clams are a staple in many Vietnamese coastal cities. Whether steamed, grilled, or prepared in a tangy dipping sauce, ngao dishes are celebrated for their sweet flavor and tender texture. A popular choice is grilled clams topped with herbs and chili, making them a delightful appetizer.

6. Canh Hai San (Seafood Soup)
This comforting seafood soup is made with various types of fish, shrimp, and vegetables. Infused with rich broths and herbs, Canh Hai San is not just nutritious but also a hearty addition to any meal. It's perfect for chilly evenings or rainy days.

7. Goi Cuon (Fresh Spring Rolls with Seafood)
These refreshing rolls are typically filled with shrimp, vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and sometimes crab. Served with a peanut or hoisin dipping sauce, Goi Cuon is a fantastic choice for a light yet satisfying meal.

8. Hu Tieu (Noodle Soup with Seafood)
This southern Vietnamese dish features a rich broth served with a mix of rice noodles, seafood, and fresh vegetables. Hu Tieu comes in several variations, making it a versatile dish that caters to different tastes and preferences. The blend of textures and flavors makes it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

9. Tom Chua (Pickled Shrimp)
This unique dish involves marinating shrimp in a mix of salt, sugar, and vinegar, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Served with rice or as a snack, Tom Chua is an exquisite example of Vietnamese preservation techniques that enhance seafood's natural flavors.

10. Banh Canh (Thick Noodle Soup with Crab)
Banh Canh, a thick noodle soup, typically features crab or shrimp floating in a rich and savory broth. This hearty dish showcases the incredible seafood available in Vietnam and is often garnished with fresh cilantro and green onions for added flavor.

Exploring Vietnamese seafood is a true journey for the senses, full of fresh, vibrant flavors and unique culinary techniques. Don't miss the chance to indulge in these mouth-watering dishes on your next visit to Vietnam!