Vietnam is characterized by its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and welcoming people. As a testament to the country’s diversity, Vietnamese snacks have become an integral part of the nation’s culinary identity. From rural regions to bustling cities, countless snacks are available for visitors to sample.
With such an array of options, it can be difficult for tourists to decide which snacks to try. This article provides an overview of 15 must-try Vietnamese snacks every tourist should experience to make the decision easier.
Vietnamese Spring Rolls
Vietnamese spring rolls are a traditional snack that many locals, as well as tourists, love. They consist of fresh vegetables, herbs, and pork wrapped in a thin sheet of rice paper. The spring rolls are then deep-fried until they become nice and crispy. This dish has the perfect balance of crunchy, savory, and sweet flavors, making it a great appetizer or snack for any occasion.
The popularity of Vietnamese spring rolls is due to their delicious taste and ease of preparation. Moreover, they are not too time-consuming, so that they can be enjoyed without much effort. That makes them perfect for busy travelers who want to indulge in something quick yet tasty. Additionally, because they can be served hot or cold, they have become an ideal choice for outdoor activities such as picnics or camping trips.
Banh Mi
Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its variety and complexity, drawing on Chinese and French influences. One of the most iconic dishes in Vietnam is the banh mi, a sandwich that has become a global sensation. From its humble beginnings as a simple snack enjoyed by locals, this dish has been embraced by food lovers from all over the world.
The banh mi can be described as a burst of flavor in every bite. It starts with freshly-baked soft yet crunchy bread filled with ingredients like sweet pork belly, pickled vegetables, herbs, and sauces. Each bite is slightly different depending on which fillings are used – some are sweet, others spicy or savory. The combination of tastes creates an explosion of sensations on the tongue.
Banh Xeo
Banh xeo is a traditional Vietnamese snack that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is a savory, crispy crepe made with rice flour and filled with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts. The dish’s name translates to “sizzling cake” due to its sound when cooked in a hot pan of oil. The snack is often served with fresh herbs such as mint and basil and lettuce leaves for wrapping. Banh xeo has become popular among tourists for its unique texture and flavor.
When visiting Vietnam, sampling banh xeo can be an exciting culinary experience. After all, there’s nothing quite like biting into a warm and crunchy crepe filled with delicious ingredients. Combining herbs and lettuce adds a freshness that complements the savory filling perfectly. Those who want their banh xeo to have an extra kick of flavor can add chili pepper or fish sauce before eating it.
Banh Cuon
Banh cuon is a Vietnamese snack that is a popular staple in many restaurants and homes. It consists of thin, steamed rice crepes filled with pork, mushrooms, and onions. The rice sheet is made from a paste of rice flour and water, which is spread over a cloth that is then steamed. The filling is cooked separately and added to the steamed rice sheet before being rolled into small cylinders or tubes.
Banh cuon can be served as an appetizer or main course. It’s often served with fish sauce and herbs such as mint or basil, creating a delicious combination of flavors. This traditional dish has become popular among tourists looking for an authentic experience when visiting Vietnam. Banh cuon offers them an opportunity to sample the rich culture of this fascinating country through its cuisine. Its unique ingredients and preparation make it an enjoyable experience for any visitor.
Bo Bia
What is bo bia? Bo bia is a snack dish from Vietnam that consists of a sweet pork sausage, julienned vegetables, and eggs wrapped in a type of spring roll wrapper. The combination of ingredients makes for an incredibly tasty treat that tourists should try when visiting the country.
How does one go about eating this unique snack? Traditionally, bo bia can be eaten as-is or with sugar or chili sauce added for extra flavor. Though it may look intimidating, its soft texture and mild sweetness make this a pleasant and simple experience. Additionally, the various ingredients in bo bia provide an interesting combination of flavors to create something special.
Bo bia is an excellent snack for tourists to try while exploring Vietnam because it provides an authentic Vietnamese experience without being too overwhelming. Its versatility also allows individuals to customize their dining experience by adding whatever sauces they prefer and adjusting the portion size accordingly.
Nem Nuong
Irony can be an effective tool in engaging an audience, and what better way to do this than by discussing an often-overlooked Vietnamese snack? Nem nuong is a delightful treat that should not be missed.
This savory dish consists of grilled pork skewers wrapped in rice paper, fresh vegetables, herbs, and a homemade dipping sauce. The combination of textures and flavors makes for an unforgettable experience that will be sure to tantalize the taste buds of any visitor. Nem nuong is typically served as an appetizer or side dish but can also be enjoyed as a main course.
The best part about this dish is that it can be easily found throughout Vietnam. Whether at street vendors, small restaurants, or upscale eateries, nem nuong is always perfectly cooked with fresh ingredients. It’s no wonder why this delectable meal has become so popular among locals and visitors alike! For anyone looking for a unique culinary adventure, nem nuong offers the perfect opportunity to explore the vibrant flavors of Vietnam.
Bun Bo Hue
Savory and spicy bun bo hue is a quintessential Vietnamese dish that tourists should sample. A hearty beef and pork soup, the broth is enriched with lemongrass and shrimp paste for an aromatic flavor. Topped off with sliced banana blossom, this dish offers a unique combination of sweet and savory. Bun bo hue is often served with herbs such as cilantro, basil, and mint to flavor the soup.
A truly special culinary experience awaits those who try bun bo hue. Typically enjoyed in a shared setting with friends or family, this warm soup brings people closer together over their love of food. The flavorsome broth creates a comforting atmosphere that allows diners to feel connected through their shared appreciation for the local cuisine. Immerse yourself in the culture by trying this traditional Vietnamese dish – you won’t regret it!
Pho
Like a warm hug, Pho is the perfect comfort food for many Vietnamese. This classic noodle soup is served on almost every street corner and restaurant throughout Vietnam. It consists of a fragrant bone broth with rice noodles, topped with herbs and meat, such as beef or chicken.
The broth is made from simmering bones and spices for hours, giving it an intense flavor that can be adjusted to fit individual tastes. The herbs are typically a combination of basil, sawtooth herb, cilantro, mint, chili peppers, and bean sprouts, while the meats can range from thin slices of beef to pork balls or even duck.
To make the dish even more delicious, accompaniments such as lime wedges and hot sauces are usually offered.
Banh Hoi
Gastronomic adventures await any tourist visiting Vietnam, and Banh Hoi is one of the most delectable treats. This light and fragrant rice noodle dish is a pleasure for the senses, exemplifying the incredible variety of Vietnamese cuisine. Invitingly bedecked with grilled pork, fresh herbs, and an irresistible sweet-sour fish sauce dip, it’s a culinary odyssey that will linger in your memory.
The delightful combination of ingredients makes Banh Hoi a true star on the Vietnamese snack menu. The freshly made rice noodles are thin yet resilient, providing an ideal texture for soaking up all the flavor from the fish sauce and other condiments. The crunchy shallots and aromatic herbs provide just enough contrast to create an unforgettable taste experience.
Xoi Xeo
Xoi xeo is a popular snack in Vietnam that consists of sticky rice, mung beans, and pork fat. Due to its convenience, this snack is often served as breakfast or sold as street food. The dish is usually cooked with onions and mushrooms, giving it an exotic fragrant aroma. In addition, Xoi xeo is typically served with pickled vegetables that add a tangy flavor.
For tourists looking for an authentic Vietnamese experience, trying xoi xeo is a must-have. Its unique combination of flavors creates a truly memorable culinary experience that can only be found in Vietnam. Moreover, as it contains ingredients commonly found in Vietnamese cuisines, such as sticky rice and pork fat, it will surely be enjoyed by all who try it.
Xoi xeo has become an iconic symbol of the culture and traditional snacks in Vietnam, making it essential for any tourist to sample while traveling. Its unique flavor profile makes it stand out from other popular dishes nationwide. Moreover, its convenience and affordability make it an ideal choice for tourists looking to taste local culture without spending too much money.
Bun Thit Nuong
The savory aroma of Bun Thit Nuong is enough to make any traveler’s mouth water. This Vietnamese specialty combines the smokiness of grilled pork and the freshness of herbs, wrapped up in a warm, fluffy bun. The perfect combination of ingredients creates an unforgettable culinary experience that will delight even the most discerning palate.
A plate of Bun Thit Nuong consists of a bed of vermicelli noodles topped with sliced cucumbers, pickled carrots, roasted peanuts, and crispy shallots. The dish’s star is grilled pork marinated in a sauce made from fish sauce, garlic, chili peppers, and sugar. Once plated all together, it creates a medley of flavor that will tantalize anyone’s taste buds.
Bun Thit Nuong is often served with a side of Sriracha or chili oil for extra heat and flavor. Enjoying this traditional Vietnamese snack will surely be an unforgettable experience for any tourist!
Com Tam
Com tam, a delectable Vietnamese dish, has long been integral to the culture. As such, it is no surprise that this snack is a must-try for any tourist visiting the country. It provides a unique culinary experience that is both savory and succulent.
Often served with grilled pork, com tam consists of rice broken into small pieces and cooked in fish sauce. The rice is then topped with vegetables like lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, and crushed peanuts. The dish can be further enhanced by adding other condiments, such as chili sauce or pickled garlic, to add more depth to the flavor profile.
Che
Che, a delightful sweet-sour treat from Vietnam, is a must-try for every tourist. Consisting of various ingredients cooked and served together, this dish is a succulent delight that will tantalize the taste buds. Combining the sweetness of coconut milk and jellies with the tartness of fruits, che can come in many flavors, such as mung bean, longan, taro, durian, and more.
This traditional snack has been a part of Vietnamese cuisine for generations. It is eaten during festivals and celebrations or enjoyed as a refreshing treat to beat the heat. With its unique blend of flavors and textures, che will bring joy to anyone who tries it.
Bia Hoi
Bubbling bia hoi, a light and refreshing Vietnamese beer, is one of the most popular snacks tourists should try. Brewed daily with local ingredients, this special draught beer is served fresh and is usually consumed in a communal setting such as small restaurants or sidewalk eateries. Bia Hoi can be found in cities throughout Vietnam and has become an integral part of Vietnamese culture.
This traditional beverage’s unique brewing method sets it apart from other beers. The ingredients include rice, barley, and water, which are fermented together to create a light, crisp taste. The fermentation process takes only one day, giving bia hoi its freshness. Furthermore, compared to other beers, bia hoi contains fewer calories and lower alcohol content due to its short fermentation period.
Rau Muong
Rau muong is a popular snack among the Vietnamese people. It is made of mung bean sprouts stir-fried with garlic, onion, and other spices. The dish has an earthy flavor and crunchy texture, making it a perfect accompaniment to any meal. This simple yet flavorful snack is enjoyed by both locals and tourists alike.
The preparation process of rau muong is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients, making it an attractive option for those looking for a quick snack or side dish. The mung bean sprouts provide essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B6, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, and fiber. Conclusion
Vietnamese cuisine is characterized by its unique blend of flavors, textures, and ingredients. As a result, Vietnam has something for every palate, from savory snacks to deliciously sweet desserts. The eight snacks listed above are some of the most popular Vietnamese treats tourists should try when visiting the country.
