5 Iconic Vietnamese Dishes Every Food Lover Should Try

Vietnam is famous for its rich culinary heritage, and has a vibrant food scene that reflects its cultural and geographical diversity. The food here ranges from spicy street food to delicate royal dishes, which are a blend of tastes, textures and aromas. Here are five must-try foods to experience the essence of Vietnamese cuisine. 

Phở

This is a national favourite and widely loved by the younger and older generations. A mix of rice noodles (bánh phở), beef or chicken, depending on the type, with the tempering of ginger, onion, and spices with fish sauce, fresh herbs (cilantro, basil), lime, and bean sprouts, phở is a comforting, easy-to-digest dish that can be eaten at any time of day. The simple broth with noodles and meat appeals to everyone, and while restaurants around the world serve it as a meal for dinner or lunch, it is surprising how many Vietnamese people enjoy starting their day with phở.

Bánh Cuốn

These are delicate rice rolls filled with ground pork and mushrooms. Considered lighter and healthier, bánh cuốn is packed with wood ear mushrooms, shallots, fish sauce, cucumber, and herbs such as mint or cilantro. Older adults often prefer such dishes due to their softer texture and balanced flavours.

Bún Chả Giò

The combination of fried spring rolls with noodles and fresh herbs makes this dish appealing to younger generations. It's vibrant and flavourful, and the crispiness of the spring rolls is particularly popular. Whether you want to replace fatty pork with tofu or even another meat, bún chả giò is an adaptable meal. However, the local Vietnamese will always champion the traditional pork in this classic breakfast dish.

Xôi

Xôi is filling and affordable, making it a convenient breakfast for students or children heading to school. Made up of glutinous rice with toppings like mung beans, shredded coconut, fried shallots, pork or chicken, the dish comes in sweet and savoury versions. The sweet versions are especially popular among kids, while the savoury versions are enjoyed by everyone. It is often enjoyed as a snack throughout the day and makes for an easy and economical breakfast.

Bánh Mì

Bánh mì is a popular grab-and-go meal, often enjoyed by busy young adults and office workers. It is made of French baguette that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, pâté, pork, chicken, or tofu that is grilled or roasted, along with pickled vegetables, carrot, daikon and a tempering of fresh cucumber, cilantro, chilli peppers, mayonnaise, and soy sauce. Its portability and wide variety of fillings make it a versatile and beloved choice for breakfast.