Joanna James
While the culinary offering of Vietnam might not win points for complexity – it is this simplicity, fresh ingredients and subtle variations by regions that make even the most jaded culinary experts come back for more. Here are six Vietnamese dishes you cannot miss!
No list of Vietnamese cuisine would be complete without the enduring Pho. It is truly impossible to traverse the country's major tourist destinations without running into large hungry locals and tourists alike waiting to be served a hot, aromatic bowl of noodles at a humble makeshift Pho stand. This simple but much-loved staple consists of fresh rice noodles, salty broth, chicken or beef and a sprinkling of fresh herbs. The best part of this dish is that it is tasty, cheap and usually available at all hours of the day; be it at a humble food stall by the street or at some of the best restaurants in Vietnam including the likes of Avani Quy Nhon Resort.
A hallmark of a good Banh Xeo is a fresh crispy crepe bulging at the seams with bean sprouts, shrimp and pork along with the addition of fresh herbs for garnish – which is characteristic of most authentic Vietnamese dishes. To eat like the locals do have the Banh Xeo cut into bite sizes, roll it up in lettuce leaves or rice paper and dip it in the special sauce of the day.
A simple dish bursting with flavour, the Cao Lau s a pork noodle dish which hails from Hoi An. A true representation of all the different cultures that visited the trading port at its prime, Cao Lau is certainly a bowl of contrasts. Its thick noodles are similar to the Udon noodles of Japan, its herbs and broth a Vietnam touch while the pork and the crispy won-ton crackers represent the influence of the Chinese. Did you know that an authentic Cao Lau is made only out of water drawn from a local well in Ba Le?
Healthy, fresh, and light Goi Cuon are Vietnam's take on spring rolls and are a wholesome choice when you are after something healthier and wish to take a break from all the fried food dishes in Vietnamese cuisine. The translucent roll is first stuffed with layers of fragrant coriander, shrimp, or slivers of meat along with salad greens before being neatly parcelled and dipped in tangy fish sauce – the country's favourite condiment of choice.
Served in a glass or bowl, this Vietnamese dessert is an enticing treat with visibly colourful layers of fruit, bean jelly, and ice. It's a great way to cool oneself after a piping-hot meal or a scorching day in beautiful Saigon.
Ah, the world-famous Banh Mi sandwich. While it may be true that the French might have introduced the baguette, Vietnam has elevated it to a whole new standard, and the most interesting part? It differs depending on which part of Vietnam you are in at the moment. Regardless of which end of the country you are taking in, expect your Banh Mi to contain pickled vegetables, cheese, cold cuts, fried eggs, sausage, and chilli sauce!
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
