Beyond Pho and Banh Mi: Exploring Vietnam’s Unique Street Food Dishes

The Crispy Delight of Banh Xeo

Banh Xeo, often referred to as Vietnamese sizzling pancakes, are a must-try. These crispy crepes are made from rice flour, turmeric, and coconut milk, and are typically stuffed with a savory filling of shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts.

Served with a side of fresh herbs and lettuce leaves, Banh Xeo is enjoyed by wrapping pieces of the pancake in lettuce and dipping them into a tangy, sometimes spicy, fish sauce.

Bun Cha: Hanoi’s Flavorful Grilled Pork and Noodles

Originating from Hanoi, Bun Cha is a popular dish consisting of grilled pork patties and slices served over a bed of vermicelli noodles with fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, and a bowl of nuoc cham (a sweet, sour, and savory dipping sauce).

In addition to its burst of flavors, Bun Cha is usually accompanied by a side of Nem Cua Be, Vietnamese crab spring rolls, adding a delightful crunch to the meal.

Nem Lui: The Grilled Lemongrass Skewers

Nem Lui is a specialty from the central region of Vietnam, particularly in Hue. These grilled skewers are made from minced pork, mixed with lemongrass, garlic, and shallots, then grilled to perfection.

Typically served with rice paper, fresh vegetables, and a dipping sauce made from peanuts and fermented beans, Nem Lui offers a unique blend of flavors and textures that is both savory and refreshing.

Sweet Endings with Che: Vietnam’s Diverse Desserts

Che is a term that encompasses a wide variety of Vietnamese sweet soups, puddings, and drinks. These desserts often include ingredients like mung beans, black-eyed peas, sticky rice, and an assortment of tropical fruits.

With its countless variations, Che can be enjoyed either hot or cold and is a perfect way to end any culinary exploration of Vietnamese street food.


Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *