Joanna James
Hoi An, home to a captivating UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a feast for the senses, and its cuisine is no exception! Beyond the charming Old Town and riverside setting, it boasts a unique culinary scene and here are some must-try dishes to savour on your visit.
Cao Lau, a Hoi An speciality, is a textural and flavourful experience waiting to be devoured. You can expect thick, chewy rice noodles, bathed in a rich, savoury pork-based broth. This culinary masterpiece is then adorned with thinly sliced Chinese barbecued pork, adding a smoky sweetness. Fresh bean sprouts and crunchy croutons provide a delightful contrast, while a generous sprinkling of local herbs like mint, Vietnamese fish leaf and basil, complete the aromatic combination. Depending on the cook's creativity, you might encounter variations that include rice crackers, lime, peanuts, and even a fiery chilli jam for those who like an extra spicy kick!
No exploration of Vietnamese cuisine is complete without indulging in Pho, the country's beloved national dish that is easy to find on menus at Hoi An restaurants. This steaming bowl of comfort food features a deeply flavourful broth, simmered for hours with beef bones and ingredients like cardamom, star anise and cinnamon. The result? A rich, aromatic liquid that forms the soul of the dish. Thin rice noodles provide a delightful slurp factor, while tender slices of beef or chicken add a protein punch. Pho is sometimes served with a plate of fresh herbs like basil, mint, and Vietnamese coriander, along with lime wedges, chilli, and fish sauce so you can enhance the flavour to your liking.
Banh Xeo, literally translating to "sizzling cake," is a Vietnamese street food legend that lives up to its name. Watch street vendors as they pour a vibrant yellow turmeric-infused rice batter onto a hot skillet, creating a satisfying sizzle. The resulting crispy crepe features a generous filling of savoury ingredients like diced shrimp, pork belly, bean sprouts, and straw mushrooms. To truly savour this dish like a local, tear off manageable pieces, wrap them in fresh lettuce leaves, and dip them into a spicy fish sauce. For an immersive experience, look to stay at a property such as Anantara Hoi An Resort that offers a hands-on cooking class where you can learn the secrets of crafting the perfect Banh Xeo!
Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its focus on fresh, healthy ingredients, and Goi Du Du Va Xoai (papaya and mango salad) is a shining example. It features julienned green papaya and mango, offering a delightful crunch, tossed with fresh herbs like mint and coriander for a burst of freshness. Some chefs will also add Vietnamese basil, garlic, cilantro, red chillies, and shallots, while lean slices of pork and prawns may be given as accompaniments as well. A sprinkle of crushed peanuts adds a final layer of texture and a touch of richness, making this salad truly irresistible.
No foodie adventure here is complete without trying Goi Cuon, or Vietnamese spring rolls. Translucent rice paper wrappers are filled with a delightful array of ingredients like julienned vegetables, herbs like mint and coriander, and thinly sliced pork or shrimp. The protein adds a satisfying heartiness and is accompanied by a typically sweet and spicy peanut sauce that combines chilli, garlic and a splash of lime juice. It’s a perennial Hoi An street food favourite that is perfect as a light lunch, appetiser, or even a yummy snack on the go!
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.
