Vietnamese Cuisine: 8 Traditional Vietnamese Dishes

Vietnamese cuisine is known for its vibrant flavours, fresh ingredients and harmonious balance of sweet, sour, salty and spicy flavors. When you come to Vietnam, you must taste the local food. We’ll explore eight traditional dishes you must try on your Vietnam food tour.

Bun Cha (Vietnamese meatballs):

Bun Cha is a popular dish originating from Hanoi. It consists of grilled pork meatballs in a delicious broth, served with rice noodles, fresh herbs and a dipping sauce. The combination of smoky roast meat, herbs, and savory broth creates a delicious and satisfying meal.

Banh Mi (Vietnamese baguette):

Banh Mi is a Vietnamese-style baguette sandwich that is known internationally. Crusty baguettes are packed with ingredients, including savory meats like roast pork or chicken, pate, pickles, fresh herbs, and a dash of tangy sauce. The result is a delightful explosion of flavors and textures.

Banh Xeo (Vietnamese crepes):

Banh Xeo is a delicious Vietnamese pancake made with rice flour, coconut milk and turmeric. It is usually filled with prawns, pork, bean sprouts and green onions. Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, the crepe is usually wrapped with fresh lettuce leaves and herbs, and seasoned with fish sauce.

Bun Bo Hue (Spicy Beef and Pork Rice Noodle Soup):

Originating in the central region of Vietnam, Bun Bo Hue is a spicy and aromatic soup made with beef and pork bones, lemongrass, shrimp paste, and various spices. Served with round rice noodles, tender slices of beef and pork, and garnished with fresh herbs, bean sprouts and lime. This delicious soup is loved by locals and tourists alike.

Pho (noodle soup):

No list of Vietnamese dishes would be complete without mentioning Pho. Pho is Vietnam’s most iconic dish, consisting of clear soup, rice noodles and beef or chicken. It is traditionally served with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime and chilli, allowing you to customize the taste to your liking. A steaming bowl of pho is a comforting delicacy any time of day.

Banh Cuon:

Banh Cuon is an exquisite dish made of steamed rice rolls filled with seasoned minced pork and mushrooms. These thin, translucent rolls are often topped with fried shallots, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce made of fish sauce, vinegar, and chilli. The combination of textures and flavors make Banh Cuon a delightful snack or breakfast option.

Che (sweet pudding):

Che refers to various desserts in Vietnamese. These colorful and refreshing puddings are made with ingredients like mung beans, lotus seeds, coconut milk and tapioca pearls. Che can be eaten hot or cold and comes in many different flavors such as pandan, durian or black sesame. It’s a delightful way to end a meal or enjoy dessert on a hot day.

Mi Vit Tiem (Braised Duck Noodles):

Mi Vit Tiem is a delicious noodle soup made with tender braised duck, Chinese egg noodles and an aromatic broth infused with various spices and herbs. The rich and flavorful broth complements the succulent duck meat and springy noodles for a heart-warming meal.

While in Vietnam, do try these traditional dishes to truly immerse yourself in the country’s cuisine.