The Most Popular Vietnamese Soups You Need to Taste

Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated for its diverse flavors and unique dishes, with soups playing a pivotal role in its culinary identity. From hearty broths to fresh ingredients, these soups offer a delightful experience for the palate. Here are some of the most popular Vietnamese soups you need to taste.

1. Pho

No discussion of Vietnamese soups would be complete without mentioning pho. This iconic dish features wide rice noodles in a savory broth, typically made with beef (pho bo) or chicken (pho ga). The broth is simmered for hours with fragrant spices like star anise and cinnamon, giving it a rich flavor. Topped with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and lime, pho offers a soothing yet vibrant meal at any time of day.

2. Bun Bo Hue

Bun bo Hue is a spicy beef noodle soup from the city of Hue. Unlike pho, bun bo Hue uses round rice noodles and a robust broth made from beef bones and lemongrass. This soup is typically served with beef shank, pork hocks, and a mix of fresh herbs. Its distinctive flavor profile is complemented by lime, chili, and various accompaniments, making it a must-try for spice lovers.

3. Canh Chua

Canh chua, or Vietnamese sour soup, is a refreshing and tangy dish that often includes fish (like catfish) and a variety of vegetables such as pineapple, tomatoes, and bean sprouts. The broth is made sour with tamarind and is typically garnished with fresh herbs, making it a delicious option for those seeking a lighter, yet flavorful soup.

4. Hu Tieu

Hu tieu is a versatile noodle soup popular in southern Vietnam. It can be made with a variety of proteins, including shrimp, squid, and pork, served over chewy rice noodles in a clear broth. Each vendor has its own twist on hu tieu, so tasting it from different places can reveal an exciting range of flavors. It often comes with an array of fresh herbs and lime to customize the dish to your liking.

5. Mi Quang

Mi quang, hailing from the Quang Nam province, is a noodle soup that features turmeric-infused noodles, often accompanied by various meats such as pork, chicken, or shrimp. The broth is rich yet lighter than traditional soups, and it incorporates fresh herbs, crushed peanuts, and sesame rice crackers for texture. The addition of lime gives it a delightful zest, making it a unique experience.

6. Sup Mang Cua

Sup mang cua is a luxurious crab soup made with fresh crab meat and asparagus, resulting in a beautiful combination of flavors and textures. Typically thickened with tapioca starch, this creamy soup is often garnished with fried shallots and fresh herbs. Its delicate flavor makes it a favorite in both home cooking and fine dining.

7. Chao

Chao is a comforting rice porridge often enjoyed as a soup. While it can be served plain, it's commonly cooked with chicken or fish, making it a nutritious and comforting meal, especially when feeling under the weather. It is typically garnished with scallions, ginger, and sometimes soy sauce, allowing for a simple yet satisfying flavor profile.

These Vietnamese soups not only showcase the country's culinary creativity but also reflect its cultural diversity. Each bowl tells a story and invites you to explore the rich flavors that make Vietnamese cuisine so beloved worldwide. Whether you’re visiting Vietnam or trying your hand at cooking these dishes at home, make sure to indulge in these delicious soups.