Whether you’re a meat lover or vegetarian, there’s something for everyone. Vietnamese food strikes a balance between subtlety and richness - dishes that gently light up the tastebuds without overpowering. So, what should you eat in Vietnam? The options are endless, from street stalls and roadside carts to restaurants and even high-end eateries (THINGS TO DO IN VIETNAM).
Fresh Salads and Stir-Fried Vegetables
Fresh salads
are a staple in many Vietnamese meals. Often served with rice or noodles, they
bring a refreshing crunch and are commonly paired with spicy dips. These salads
go beyond the ordinary, packed with prawns, shallots, nuts, and vegetables,
each bite is a burst of bold flavour.
Vegetarians won’t have an issue. Most restaurants will modify dishes upon request, and many menus feature dedicated vegetarian or even vegan options. Stir-fried vegetables are just as satisfying, simple, yet rich in flavour (ASIAN FOOD GUIDE: CAMBODIAN FOOD).
Tofu is a favourite in Vietnamese cooking and appears in everything from spicy stir-fries to warming soups. Its mild taste absorbs seasoning well, creating comforting and tasty dishes. Mushroom lovers will also be pleased, mushrooms are widely used and form the base of many hearty and satisfying meals.
Vietnamese rolls are a must-try. Whether fresh or fried, they’re typically filled with prawns and crunchy vegetables, wrapped in soft rice paper. These delicate sheets are also used in other dishes like crispy pancakes stuffed with meat and vegetables or thicker rolls topped with fresh herbs and dipping sauces.
Seafood in Vietnam is a true highlight. From prawns tossed into salads to grilled skewers charred on the outside and tender inside, there’s no shortage of flavour. Steamed fish dishes are just as impressive, lightly spiced, tangy, subtly sweet, and often topped with herbs.
Don’t miss Chao Tom, a dish of minced shrimp wrapped around sugar cane, then grilled or fried to golden perfection. Spicy-coated dried anchovies are another popular option: crunchy, salty, and perfect as a snack or starter.
Chicken dishes vary across Vietnam, but grilled chicken is a clear standout. Crispy on the outside and juicy inside, it’s typically flavored with tangy sauces and kaffir lime leaves. The result? A dish that’s simple but deeply aromatic and satisfying.
Banh Chung is a traditional Vietnamese sticky rice cake wrapped in banana leaves and filled with yellow mung beans and fatty pork belly. It’s a rich, filling dish often served during festive occasions and enjoyed as part of a wholesome meal.
Pho needs no introduction. This world-famous noodle soup has become a symbol of Vietnamese cuisine. Traditionally made with beef, the broth is slow-simmered with aromatic spices, then served with rice noodles, herbs, and lime.
There’s also a chicken version, lighter but equally fragrant. Pho is eaten throughout the day in Vietnam and is a must-try for anyone visiting.
Vietnamese desserts are a treat on their own. From coconut milk and green jelly drinks to black sesame porridge, expect a mix of textures and temperatures. Some places offer DIY-style dessert stations where you can add peanuts, syrup, or sweet sticky rice wrapped in banana leaves.
And if you’re into fruit, don’t skip the custard apple - soft, creamy, and naturally sweet, it’s a favourite among locals.
No comments:
Post a Comment