Vietnamese street food is not only delicious but also deeply rooted in the culture and history of the country. Influenced by China, France, and neighboring countries, Vietnamese street food represents a unique fusion of flavors and techniques perfected over centuries. In this article, we will explore 11 delicious and enticing Vietnamese street foods that you cannot miss.
If you are a culinary enthusiast seeking your next cooking adventure or eager to try something new (beyond the popular pho and banh mi), the vibrant snapshots of Vietnamese street food offer many mouthwatering options to satisfy your expectations.
Bun Cha
A Hanoi-style dish featuring grilled pork, vermicelli, fresh herbs, and fish sauce. The pork is marinated in fish sauce, sugar, and spices before being grilled over charcoal until tender and flavorful. The vermicelli is served cold and garnished with various fresh herbs like mint, cilantro, and basil.
The dipping sauce, made from fish sauce, vinegar, sugar, garlic, and chili, complements the grilled pork perfectly.
Banh Xeo
A popular dish across Central and Southern Vietnam, Banh Xeo comes in various regional styles. In Central Vietnam, these small, crispy pancakes are cooked in a cast-iron pan using pre-made molds with a diameter ranging from 10 to 15 centimeters.
Made from rice flour, coconut milk, and turmeric for the distinctive yellow color, Banh Xeo is then filled with delicious ingredients such as shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and mung beans. Folded in half, it is served with fresh herbs, sugar cane, and a sweet and savory dipping sauce.
Goi Cuon (Fresh Spring Rolls)
These fresh rolls are a tasty and nutritious street food option. Made with rice paper, they are filled with fresh herbs, vermicelli, and shrimp, pork, or tofu. Served cold, they come with a flavorful dipping sauce that strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and saltiness.
Com Tam (Broken Rice)
Com Tam is the Vietnamese version of fried rice. The rice is cooked with minced garlic and scallions, then adorned with various delicious components like grilled pork, minced pork skin, fried egg, and pickled vegetables. Typically served with fish sauce and a small bowl of soup, this dish is a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Mi Quang
A distinctive noodle dish from central Vietnam, Mi Quang stands out with its yellow noodles. Served in a bowl with a small amount of broth, it is adorned with a variety of ingredients such as shrimp, pork, peanuts, and fresh herbs. To complete the dish, crispy fried shallots are sprinkled on top.
Cha Ca (Grilled Fish)
Cha Ca, a Hanoi-style dish, features grilled fish marinated with turmeric and various spices. The fish is served on a hot plate with vermicelli, fresh herbs, and spicy fish sauce. This dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a must-try.
Xoi (Sticky Rice)
Sticky rice is a staple in Vietnamese cuisine, and Xoi is a standout dish using this beloved ingredient. Made with glutinous rice cooked until soft and sticky, Xoi is often served with delicious toppings such as minced chicken, pork floss, grilled chicken, and other ingredients like scallions and crispy shallots. Whether enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or a satisfying snack, Xoi is a diverse and flavorful dish.
Bun Bo Hue
For those who love spicy and aromatic soup, Bun Bo Hue is an unmissable dish. Originating from the city of Hue in central Vietnam, this soup is known for its spicy and fragrant broth with lemongrass and chili.
The broth is often simmered with beef bones and fish sauce, creating a rich and flavorful base. Served with thick rice noodles, Bun Bo Hue is garnished with various toppings, providing a savory and satisfying experience.
Che (Sweet Dessert Soup)
If you're craving a sweet and refreshing dessert, Che is the perfect choice. This popular dessert is made by simmering various ingredients in sweet syrup and then serving it cold.
The components in Che can vary widely, including beans, fruits, and different types of jellies. Some variations also incorporate coconut milk, adding a creamy and indulgent element to the sweet and colorful mixture.
Banh My (Vietnamese Baguette)
Known for its diversity in shape, size, and ingredients, Banh My in Vietnam offers a unique experience for food enthusiasts. Vietnamese baguettes are often crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, creating a perfect texture with each bite. Renowned varieties like Banh My Chao (pan-fried baguette), Banh My Bo Toi (garlic butter baguette), or Banh My Cuon (rolled baguette) showcase the creativity and distinct flavors in Vietnamese street food.
In summary, Vietnamese street food not only tantalizes the taste buds with its rich and varied flavors but also tells a story of cultural amalgamation and culinary evolution. The street corners of Vietnam offer a gastronomic journey filled with savory delights, inviting both locals and travelers to explore the culinary treasures that this vibrant country has to offer.