The Most Popular Vietnamese Soups in Saigon

Saigon, also known as Ho Chi Minh City, is a vibrant culinary hub that offers a diverse range of flavors and dishes. Among its culinary treasures, Vietnamese soups hold a special place, providing warmth and comfort to both locals and visitors. Let's explore some of the most popular Vietnamese soups that you must try when in Saigon.

1. Phở
Perhaps the most famous Vietnamese dish, phở is a fragrant noodle soup that features a savory broth made from simmered beef or chicken bones. The dish is garnished with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and lime, allowing for a perfectly customizable meal. Saigon boasts countless phở restaurants, each claiming to have the best recipe, making it essential to indulge in this iconic soup during your visit.

2. Bún Bò Huế
Bún bò Huế hails from the city of Huế but has become a beloved staple in Saigon. This spicy beef noodle soup is known for its bold flavors, thanks to a mix of lemongrass, chili oil, and beef shank. Served with chewy round rice noodles and accompanied by a variety of herbs and vegetables, bún bò Huế is a must-try for those seeking a more adventurous soup experience.

3. Canh Chua
Canh chua, or sour soup, is a traditional dish from the Mekong Delta region. This soup combines the sweetness of pineapple and the tartness of tamarind, creating a refreshing and tangy flavor profile. Typically made with fish, tomatoes, and bean sprouts, canh chua offers a unique taste of Southern Vietnamese cuisine and is often served with rice for a complete meal.

4. Hủ Tiếu
Hủ tiếu is a noodle soup that features a clear, flavorful broth made from pork or seafood, often accompanied by a variety of meats like beef or shrimp. This dish is versatile, with different regional variations across Vietnam. In Saigon, it is common to find hủ tiếu served with a side of fresh herbs, lime, and chili sauce, allowing diners to customize their flavors.

5. Mì Quảng
Originally from Quảng Nam province, mì quảng is a unique noodle soup that distinguishes itself with its rich, turmeric-infused broth. The dish typically includes a mix of meats, such as chicken, shrimp, and pork, along with fresh vegetables and herbs. Served with a generous topping of crushed peanuts and sesame seeds, mì quảng is a feast for the eyes and the palate.

6. Sò Huyết Cháo
Sò huyết cháo, or blood cockle soup, is a lesser-known delicacy that is popular among seafood lovers in Saigon. This soup features a savory broth combined with blood cockles, herbs, and rice. Its rich and slightly briny flavor makes it a delightful meal for those looking to try something different.

7. Cháo
Cháo, or Vietnamese rice porridge, is a comforting dish often enjoyed for breakfast or when feeling under the weather. Made by simmering rice until it becomes soft and creamy, cháo is frequently served with a variety of toppings, including chicken, fish, or pork. With its soothing qualities, cháo symbolizes homely warmth, making it a true favorite among many Vietnamese households.

Exploring Saigon's vibrant soup scene is an essential part of experiencing its rich food culture. From the world-renowned phở to lesser-known delicacies, each bowl of soup tells a story of tradition and flavor. Be sure to indulge in these savory delights during your visit to fully appreciate the culinary heritage of Vietnam.