Embark on a Culinary Adventure through Vietnam’s Scrumptious Food Scene
Hello, foodies and fellow wanderers! Today, we’re setting off on a tantalising journey through the heart of Vietnam’s vibrant food scene. With its rich history and diverse influences, Vietnamese cuisine offers an explosion of flavours that are sure to delight your palate. Are you ready? Let’s dive in!
Pho – The Quintessential Vietnamese Comfort Food
Our first stop is Pho, a dish so synonymous with Vietnam that it might as well be its culinary ambassador. Born in Northern Vietnam during the mid-1880s, Pho echoes the country’s multicultural past, with Chinese and French influences shaping this delightful noodle soup.
The base of Pho is a fragrant broth simmered for hours with beef bones, star anise, cloves, and other spices. Floating in this aromatic bath, are tender slices of beef and silky rice noodles topped with fresh herbs like basil and cilantro. Each spoonful brings a harmonious blend of savoury, sweet, and spicy notes, creating a symphony of flavours that dances on the tongue.
My personal favourite spot for Pho is Pho Gia Truyen in Hanoi, where the broth is rich, the noodles are perfectly cooked, and the beef melts in your mouth. A pro tip? Don’t shy away from adding a squeeze of lime and a dash of chilli sauce for an extra zing!
Goi Cuon – Vietnam’s Fresh Summer Rolls
Next up is Goi Cuon, also known as Vietnamese spring rolls or summer rolls. Unlike their fried counterparts, these rolls are refreshingly light and healthy. They typically consist of shrimp, pork, vermicelli noodles, and a medley of fresh herbs, all wrapped in translucent rice paper.
These rolls are a study in contrasts: the chewy texture of the rice paper against the crunch of raw vegetables, the sweetness of the shrimp balanced by the tangy dipping sauce. It’s no wonder Goi Cuon is a beloved appetiser in many Vietnamese meals.
I highly recommend trying Goi Cuon at The Deck Saigon, a riverside restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City. Their version, served with a delectable peanut sauce, is simply divine.
Bánh Mì – A Delicious Legacy of French Colonialism
Our third dish, Bánh Mì, is a testament to Vietnam’s colonial past. A product of French influence, this humble sandwich has taken the world by storm.
A typical Bánh Mì consists of a crusty baguette filled with an assortment of meats, pickled vegetables, fresh cilantro, and a spicy kick of chilli. The result is a crunchy, tangy, and spicy treat that’s utterly addictive.
When in Hoi An, don’t miss the chance to try Bánh Mì Phuong. Anthony Bourdain himself declared their sandwiches “a symphony in a sandwich.” And believe me, they live up to the hype!
Cà Phê Trung – The Unforgettable Egg Coffee
Finally, let’s talk about Cà Phê Trung or Vietnamese egg coffee. This unique beverage is a must-try for coffee lovers. Imagine a robust Vietnamese coffee topped with a creamy layer of whisked egg yolks and condensed milk. It’s like sipping a decadent tiramisu!
For the best Cà Phê Trung, head over to Giang Cafe in Hanoi. This charming cafe, hidden in a small alley, is the birthplace of egg coffee, and they still make it best.
As we wrap up our culinary adventure, I hope I’ve whetted your appetite for Vietnam’s mouthwatering cuisine. From the comforting Pho to the refreshing Goi Cuon, the hearty Bánh Mì to the indulgent Cà Phê Trung, each dish tells a story of Vietnam’s rich history and diverse culture. So, why not join me on this taste-travel adventure? Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
