When it comes to street food, few places in the world can rival Vietnam in terms of variety, flavor, and authenticity. The country’s vibrant street food culture is a testament to its rich culinary heritage, combining fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a diverse range of dishes that cater to every palate. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the southern charm of Ho Chi Minh City, this article explores a selection of must-try street foods in Vietnam that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
Pho (Noodle Soup)
Let’s start with the most iconic of all Vietnamese street foods – pho. A steaming bowl of pho, usually available for breakfast, is a comforting and satisfying meal. It typically consists of rice noodles, a flavorful beef or chicken broth, and thinly sliced meat, garnished with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime, and chili. Pho stands as the epitome of Vietnamese cuisine, and it’s a must-try dish no matter where you are in Vietnam.
Bun Cha
Hanoi’s own specialty, bun cha, is a delectable dish composed of grilled pork patties and slices of pork belly served in a bowl of warm fish sauce, along with a generous portion of vermicelli noodles and a side of fresh herbs. The flavors of the smoky grilled meat combined with the sweet and savory sauce are a match made in culinary heaven.
Goi Cuon (Fresh Spring Rolls)
When you need a lighter option, goi cuon, or fresh spring rolls, are a popular choice. These translucent rice paper rolls are filled with shrimp, herbs, pork, rice vermicelli, and sometimes a slice of steamed rice cake. They are served with a dipping sauce, usually hoisin or peanut sauce, and offer a refreshing burst of flavors.
Bun Bo Hue
For those seeking a spicier and heartier noodle soup experience, bun bo Hue fits the bill. This specialty of Hue features round rice noodles in a lemongrass-infused beef broth, accompanied by beef slices, pork hock, and congealed pig’s blood. It’s a symphony of flavors, with the spice level adjustable to your taste.
Com Tam (Broken Rice)
Com tam, or broken rice, is a popular street food in the south of Vietnam, especially in Ho Chi Minh City. The dish consists of rice grains that have been broken during the milling process, which results in a slightly different texture and is served with a variety of toppings, such as grilled pork, fried egg, and a side of fish sauce dressing.
Banh Xeo (Crispy Pancake)
Banh xeo, often referred to as Vietnamese crispy pancakes, is a beloved street food with a crunchy, golden exterior filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and mung beans. The name “banh xeo” is derived from the sizzling sound it makes while cooking. These pancakes are typically enjoyed by wrapping them in rice paper with herbs and dipping in a savory sauce.
Mi Quang
Mi Quang is a regional specialty of central Vietnam, specifically in the Quang Nam and Quang Ngai provinces. It’s a noodle dish that’s more than just a soup; it’s a flavorful assembly of fresh turmeric noodles, shrimp, pork, hard-boiled quail eggs, peanuts, and a vibrant broth, all garnished with fresh herbs. The dish is known for its distinctive yellow color, derived from the use of turmeric.
Banh Canh Cua
Banh canh cua is a hearty and filling noodle dish featuring thick, chewy noodles made from a mixture of rice and tapioca flour. It’s commonly served with a rich and flavorful crab broth, chunks of crab meat, and a variety of seafood and vegetables, creating a warm and satisfying dish.
Ca Phe Sua Da (Vietnamese Iced Coffee)
No exploration of Vietnamese street food would be complete without mentioning the country’s beloved coffee culture. Vietnamese iced coffee, or ca phe sua da, is a strong and aromatic coffee typically made with drip-filtered coffee and sweetened condensed milk. Served over ice, it’s a perfect way to beat the heat and recharge during your culinary adventures.
Bot Chien
Bot chien, a popular snack in Vietnam, consists of bite-sized cubes of rice cake stir-fried with eggs and various toppings, including green onions and sometimes sausage. The result is a delightful mix of textures, with crispy edges and a soft, chewy interior. A drizzle of soy sauce or chili sauce adds a satisfying umami kick.
Banh Mi (Vietnamese Sandwich)
Banh mi, a legacy of French colonial influence, is a delicious sandwich with Vietnamese flair. A fresh baguette is filled with a variety of ingredients, such as grilled meat, pâté, pickled vegetables, herbs, and condiments. The result is a delightful fusion of crunchy, savory, and zesty flavors that you can find at street stalls across the country.
Banh Cuon (Steamed Rice Rolls)
Banh cuon are delicate, steamed rice rolls filled with a mixture of minced pork and wood ear mushrooms. They are typically served with a side of fresh herbs, fried shallots, and a nuoc mam (fish sauce) dressing. The combination of textures and flavors makes banh cuon a delightful and unique street food experience.
Nem Nuong (Grilled Pork Skewers)
In the southern regions of Vietnam, nem nuong is a popular street food consisting of grilled pork skewers. The pork is typically flavored with garlic and spices, and it’s served with fresh herbs, rice paper, and a peanut dipping sauce. Assemble your own spring rolls by wrapping the grilled pork and herbs in rice paper.
Goi Du Du (Green Papaya Salad)
Goi du du, or green papaya salad, is a refreshing and tangy street food dish. It’s made from shredded green papaya, herbs, and a sweet and spicy dressing. Often, it’s served with a variety of toppings, such as shrimp, pork, or beef, creating a burst of flavors and textures in every bite.
Che (Sweet Desserts)
Che is a family of Vietnamese sweet desserts that come in various forms and flavors. These delightful treats often feature ingredients like beans, tapioca pearls, fruit, and coconut milk. You can find che vendors on the streets offering a diverse selection to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Bo Bia (Spring Rolls with Jicama)
Bo bia is a delightful street food snack made from rice paper rolled with jicama, Chinese sausage, herbs, and a sweet hoisin or peanut sauce. The combination of crispy jicama and the slightly sweet and savory flavors makes this snack a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.
Xoi (Sticky Rice)
Xoi is a popular street food dish made from glutinous rice, which is often flavored with various ingredients like mung beans, fried shallots, or shredded chicken. It’s a versatile dish that can be served as both a savory or sweet treat, depending on your choice of toppings.
Banh Trang Tron (Rice Paper Salad)
Banh trang tron is a unique and flavorful Vietnamese street food. It involves mixing shredded rice paper with a variety of ingredients, such as dried shrimp, quail eggs, green mango, and herbs, all tossed together with a spicy dressing. The result is a crunchy and satisfying snack with an array of contrasting flavors.
Hu Tieu Nam Vang (Cambodian-Style Noodle Soup)
Hu tieu nam vang is a noodle soup with a distinct Cambodian influence. The dish features clear, flavorful broth, a combination of seafood, pork, and rice noodles. It’s often garnished with fresh herbs and lime, adding a refreshing and tangy element to the savory bowl.
Oc (Escargot)
For the adventurous foodie, trying oc, or escargot, in Vietnam is a must. These small snails are prepared in various ways, often stir-fried with lemongrass and chili, creating a spicy and savory snack that pairs perfectly with cold beer.
Ha Cao (Steamed Shrimp Dumplings)
Ha cao, or steamed shrimp dumplings, are a classic dim sum dish in Vietnamese street food. These delicate dumplings are filled with plump shrimp and wrapped in translucent rice paper, offering a subtle and elegant taste.
Taste The Best Street Food in Vietnam
Vietnam’s street food scene is a culinary adventure waiting to be explored. Each region of the country offers its own unique specialties, reflecting the diverse cultural influences and flavors of Vietnam. Whether you’re savoring the comforting warmth of a bowl of pho, indulging in the savory goodness of banh mi, or discovering the array of snacks and desserts, Vietnamese street food promises to be a journey of taste, texture, and tradition that you’ll remember long after your visit. So, take to the streets and let your taste buds lead the way as you embark on a memorable gastronomic tour of Vietnam.
Featured Image & Source: Bun Cha | Photo by Markus Winkler
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