Vietnamese cuisine is a vibrant symphony of flavours, textures, and aromas that reflects the country’s rich history and diverse geography. Signature dishes like pho, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls have gained international acclaim, while lesser-known delights such as cao lau and bun cha invite adventurous palates to explore. Rooted in tradition and guided by a balance of taste, Vietnamese cuisine is a celebration of freshness and creativity that leaves a lasting impression on every food lover.

Phở

Pho_in_Saigon
Image by androog via Wikimedia Commons

Phở is the heart of Vietnamese cuisine, with its name derived from the flat rice noodles that form the foundation of this beloved dish. These noodles are paired with medium-rare beef slices or tender boiled chicken, all immersed in a flavorful beef broth.

Bánh Mi

While baguettes may trace their origins to France, bánh mì is a distinctly Vietnamese creation. The soft, chewy interior of the baguette is swiftly layered with paté and margarine before being generously filled with pickled vegetables, fresh cilantro, pork belly, pork floss, and slices of cucumber.

Cơm Tấm

Cơm tấm, or broken rice, can be enjoyed in many variations, but the most beloved is cơm tấm sườn nướng ốp la. This dish features a perfectly fried egg and a caramelised grilled pork chop served atop a generous bed of broken rice. It’s brought to life with a drizzle of nước chấm—a tangy blend of chilli, fish sauce, and sugar—and a splash of green onion oil. Those on international tour packages provided by the likes of Mackinnons Travels should aim to try such an exotic dish!

Bún Bò Huế

Bún bò Huế, a hallmark of Hue’s royal culinary tradition, is a captivating blend of flavor and elegance. Its vibrant red broth immediately signals the bold taste within—a citrusy masterpiece achieved by slow-simmering beef bones with fragrant stalks of lemongrass. Accompanied by flash-boiled vegetables and tender beef shanks, this dynamic dish brims with energy and depth.