Vegan-Friendly Vietnamese Street Food Stalls

Vietnamese street food is a vibrant and integral part of the country’s culture, offering a tantalizing array of flavors and textures. For vegan enthusiasts, navigating the bustling streets of Vietnam can lead to delightful culinary discoveries. Here are some vegan-friendly street food stalls that you should not miss.

1. Banh Mi Chay

Banh Mi, the iconic Vietnamese sandwich, can easily be veganized. Look for stalls that offer banh mi chay, where you’ll find a delicious combination of marinated tofu or seitan, pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and spicy chili sauce, all nestled in a perfectly crusty baguette. It’s a filling and flavorful option that captures the essence of Vietnamese street food.

2. Goi Cuon (Spring Rolls)

Fresh spring rolls, or goi cuon, are a popular snack that can typically be made vegan. Choose stalls that fill their rolls with a mix of fresh vegetables, rice noodles, and herbs, and skip the shrimp or pork. They are typically served with a sweet and spicy peanut sauce, making for a light, refreshing treat on a hot day.

3. Pho Chay

No trip to Vietnam is complete without trying pho, the country’s beloved noodle soup. Many street food vendors offer pho chay, a vegan version featuring a hearty broth made from mushrooms and spices, along with rice noodles, beansprouts, and a vibrant array of fresh herbs and lime. It's a comforting dish that is both nourishing and satisfying.

4. Xoi Vo (Sticky Rice)

Xoi vo, or sticky rice, is commonly available as a breakfast option in Vietnam. This dish can easily be made vegan by choosing vendors that prepare it without animal products. Typically, the sticky rice is mixed with mung beans and often topped with fried shallots or coconut, providing a sweet and savory taste that is truly enjoyable.

5. Che (Vietnamese Sweet Soup)

For those with a sweet tooth, che is a must-try. This traditional Vietnamese dessert comes in many varieties, many of which are naturally vegan. Look for che ba mau (three-color dessert) made with mung beans, red beans, and pandan jelly, served with coconut milk. Each bowl is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, perfect for cooling down after a day of exploring.

6. Nem Chua (Fermented Pork Rolls) - Vegan Version

While the traditional nem chua is made with pork, several innovative stalls have emerged, offering a vegan version. These rolls utilize fermented tofu mixed with herbs, soy sauce, and spices, wrapped in rice paper. It provides a unique taste and a chewy texture that satisfies the cravings for something savory and unexpected.

7. Canh Chua (Sour Soup)

Sour soup, or canh chua, is another traditional dish that can be adapted to a vegan diet. Seek out vendors who prepare this tangy delight with a base of tamarind, vegetables, and tofu, creating a soup that is both tangy and flavorful, perfect for a refreshing meal.

Vietnam offers a plethora of vegan-friendly street food options that showcase the country’s rich culinary heritage. Whether you’re strolling through the streets of Ho Chi Minh City or exploring the markets in Hanoi, be sure to keep an eye out for these delectable dishes. With the right choices, you can savor the essence of Vietnamese cuisine while sticking to your plant-based lifestyle.

Enjoy your vegan culinary adventure in Vietnam!