Vietnamese cuisine is known for its harmonious balance of flavors, textures, and freshness. From a single bowl of phở to a variety of homestyle dishes, there’s something for everyone.
This collection of Vietnamese recipes promises to bring the vibrant and aromatic sensations of Vietnam to your kitchen. Ready your taste buds and prepare for a culinary journey across this rich and diverse culinary landscape.
Phở Saigon (Southern Vietnamese Beef Noodle Soup)
Over the last several decades, phở has become a global favorite, from street vendors in Vietnam to international restaurants. Phở Saigon, the Southern Vietnamese version, is particularly iconic, featuring rice noodles and an array of beef cuts in a delicate broth. Achieving a clear broth involves parboiling bones to remove impurities, then simmering them with meat for sweetness. Charring aromatics and toasting spices add depth, and fresh herbs like mint and cilantro complete the dish.
Bún Bò Huế (Vietnamese Spicy Beef Noodle Soup)
If phở is the gateway to Vietnamese cuisine, then Bún Bò Huế is its bold, spicy cousin, known for its robust flavors. This dish features pork alongside beef, including ham hocks, pork sausage, and pork blood cake. Annatto-infused oil lends the broth its signature color, while optional pineapple adds acidity and sweetness. The result is a complex and flavorful soup.
Bún Chả Hanoi
The dish gained international fame when President Barack Obama dined with Anthony Bourdain in Hanoi. For the best flavors, using high-quality ingredients such as Red Boat fish sauce is recommended.
Cơm Tấm (Vietnamese Broken Rice)
The broken texture of the rice allows it to cook faster and soak up flavors better, making it an ideal base for a variety of complementary toppings.
Tôm Rim (Vietnamese Braised Shrimp)
This dish exemplifies how Vietnamese cuisine balances multiple flavors expertly, creating a harmonious and satisfying experience.
Thit Heo Nuong Xa (Vietnamese Grilled Lemongrass Pork Chops)
This dish demonstrates the Vietnamese knack for marinating and grilling, ensuring the pork chops are packed with flavor with minimal effort.
Canh Chua Cá Thì Là (Vietnamese Fish Soup With Tomato and Dill)
Freshwater fish is seared to reduce any earthy taste, and tomatoes are cooked in stages to enhance both their sweetness and tanginess. It’s an elegant soup that integrates well into any meal.
Rau Muống Xào Thịt Bò (Vietnamese Sautéed Morning Glory With Beef)
Starting the stems in a hot pan ensures even cooking, while garlic crisps add aromatic depth to this simple yet hearty dish.
Gỏi Gà Bắp Cải (Vietnamese Chicken and Cabbage Salad)
The result is a vibrant, crunchy salad that’s a refreshing contrast to richer dishes. This dish showcases the Vietnamese emphasis on texture and freshness.
Nem Lụi Huế (Huế Lemongrass Pork Skewers)
These portable snacks are a favorite for their convenient size and rich flavor, ideal for street food enthusiasts.
Nem Nướng Cuốn (Vietnamese Grilled Pork Paste Rice Paper Rolls)
Adding baking powder to the pork paste gives it a spongy texture, characteristic of Nha Trang’s culinary style.
Chả Giò (Vietnamese Imperial Rolls)
Using rice paper results in a crispier roll, making these Imperial rolls a popular choice for their unique texture and taste.
Vermicelli Noodle Bowl With Imperial Rolls
Dried vermicelli like Three Ladies Brand is preferred for its firm texture, maintaining its bite even after cooking.
Bánh Xèo (Crispy Vietnamese Rice Pancakes With Pork and Shrimp)
Cooked beansprouts help keep the pancake crispy by drawing out moisture. It can be eaten alone or wrapped in lettuce or rice paper.
Bánh Nậm (Vietnamese Steamed Rice Dumplings With Shrimp and Pork)
These dumplings are a delightful snack, often enjoyed with a splash of nước chấm and a sprinkle of crispy shallots.
Bánh Tráng Nướng (Grilled Vietnamese Rice Paper With Egg, Pork, and Condiments)
Wetting and layering the rice paper gives it structure to hold the toppings, transforming this simple cracker into a savory delight.
Egg and Pâté Bánh Mì
It’s a Vietnamese take on the breakfast sandwich, packed with flavor and perfect for any time of day.
Đồ Chua (Vietnamese Pickled Daikon and Carrots for Banh Mì)
Marinating the vegetables for at least two hours helps to neutralize any earthy flavors, bringing out their inherent sweetness.
Chè Chuối (Vietnamese Banana, Tapioca, and Coconut Milk Dessert)
This sweet soup can be served warm or hot, offering a comforting end to a meal with its creamy consistency and subtle sweetness.
Iced Vietnamese Coffee
The balance of bitter coffee and creamy condensed milk makes this a refreshing and invigorating beverage, perfect for a caffeine boost.
Exploring Vietnamese cuisine through these recipes is a delightful culinary adventure, each dish offering a unique blend of flavors and textures.
Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned chef, these recipes provide a comprehensive guide to the vibrant and diverse world of Vietnamese food. Enjoy this culinary journey and discover new favorites.
Source: Seriouseats