The Best Vietnamese Soups for Hot Summer Days

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, making it a go-to for anyone looking to beat the heat during summer. While soups may not be the first dish that comes to mind in hot weather, many Vietnamese soups are light, refreshing, and perfect for those steamy summer days. Here’s a guide to the best Vietnamese soups that will keep you cool this summer.

1. Pho Ga (Chicken Pho)
Pho Ga is a fragrant chicken noodle soup that perfectly balances savory broth with savory herbs. Made with chicken, rice noodles, and garnished with fresh mint, cilantro, and lime, this dish is a hearty yet light option for summer meals. The warm broth acts as a natural relaxant, nourishing you without being too heavy.

2. Bun Bo Hue (Spicy Beef Noodle Soup)
Bun Bo Hue, a spicy beef noodle soup, is a staple of Central Vietnamese cuisine. Featuring a rich broth infused with lemongrass, this soup is served with thick rice noodles, beef, and a side of fresh herbs and lime. While it has a spicy kick, the cooling herbs and lime juice perfectly balance the heat, making it an excellent summer dish.

3. Canh Chua (Sour Fish Soup)
Canh Chua is a bright and tangy soup that showcases the flavors of summer. This sweet-and-sour fish soup is made with tamarind, fresh vegetables, and herbs, creating a refreshing bowl of flavors. Often made with catfish, this soup is low in calories and packed with nutrients, ideal for those hot days when you want something light and refreshing.

4. Hu Tieu (Noodle Soup)
Hu Tieu is a versatile soup that can be made with various proteins, including shrimp, squid, or pork. The broth, made from simmering meat and bones, is light yet rich in flavor, and the addition of fresh vegetables elevates it further. Served with a side of bean sprouts, lime, and chili, each bite is customizable and refreshing.

5. Mi Quang (Turmeric Noodle Soup)
Originating from Quang Nam Province, Mi Quang features turmeric rice noodles in a savory broth made of shrimp, pork, or chicken. The sunny hue of the noodles pairs well with a variety of fresh herbs and is typically garnished with peanuts and sesame rice crackers. It’s an engaging dish that offers a taste of Vietnamese culture while providing a delicious summer meal.

6. Chao Ca (Fish Congee)
Chao Ca is a comforting fish porridge that can be enjoyed hot or at room temperature. Made with rice and fresh fish, this dish is often seasoned with ginger and garnished with scallions and herbs. Its light texture and warm flavors are soothing while being easy on the stomach during those hot summer months.

7. Bun Rieu (Crab Noodle Soup)
Bun Rieu is a flavorful crab noodle soup that incorporates a delicious combination of crab meat, tomatoes, and tofu in a tomato-based broth. The addition of fresh herbs and lime juice provides a vibrant flavor profile that is particularly refreshing during warm weather. This dish is often served with rice noodles, enhancing its comforting nature.

When the temperature rises, these Vietnamese soups can provide a delicious respite. They are not only nourishing but also an exciting way to incorporate fresh, seasonal ingredients into your diet. So, whether you’re enjoying them at home or seeking out a local Vietnamese restaurant, these soups are sure to keep you cool this summer.