Discover Saigon Street Food: Why Food Lovers Adore Ho Chi Minh City

Discover the Street Foods of Vietnam

Vietnam is known for its vibrant street food scene that offers a plethora of flavors and experiences. This country boasts an array of culinary delights that reflect its culture, history, and local ingredients. Here, we explore some must-try dishes that are essential to your culinary journey in Vietnam.

Goi Cuon (Vietnamese Spring Rolls)

The Vietnamese spring roll, not to be confused with its fried cousin, is a popular appetizer commonly made with slices of pork belly, shrimp, cold vermicelli noodles and veggies like lettuce, mint and chives.
The Vietnamese spring roll is a popular appetizer made with slices of pork belly, shrimp, cold vermicelli noodles, and veggies like lettuce, mint, and chives.

Goi cuon, also known as fresh spring rolls, are a favorite among locals and tourists alike. They combine various ingredients wrapped in rice paper, making them a refreshing choice. Traditionally, these rolls contain a mixture of protein and fresh herbs, providing a delightful crunch and burst of flavor in every bite.

Banh Xeo (Vietnamese Sizzling Pancakes)

Turmeric powder, not eggs, lend this iconic southern dish its yellow color. Banh xeo is named for the sizzling sound its batter makes on the skillet.
Banh xeo gets its vibrant yellow color from turmeric powder and is named for the sizzling sound it makes on the skillet.

This iconic southern dish is made from a rice flour batter flavored with turmeric and coconut milk, resulting in a crispy exterior. Moreover, it’s typically filled with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts. Banh xeo is not only delicious but also fun to prepare and eat, as it is often wrapped in lettuce leaves and dipped in a savory sauce.

Be Thui (Grilled Veal)

This celebratory dish is made by roasting a whole veal calf until the skin is blackened. Cut into thin slices and served with pickled onions, be thui can be eaten with Vietnamese coriander, sliced starfruit and green banana, all wrapped in rice paper and dipped in fermented shrimp paste.
This celebratory dish features roasted veal calf served with pickled onions, Vietnamese coriander, and a dipping sauce.

Be thui is a celebratory dish featuring a whole veal calf roasted to perfection. The blackened skin adds a distinct flavor, while it is typically sliced thinly and served alongside pickled onions. This dish is often wrapped in rice paper with fresh herbs and fruit, creating a complex burst of flavors that is unforgettable.

In conclusion, experiencing the street food of Vietnam is essential to truly understanding its culinary richness. These dishes offer a glimpse into the local culture and highlight the freshness of Vietnamese ingredients. Whether you’re in bustling cities or quaint towns, the street food will surely tempt your taste buds and make your visit to Vietnam a delicious adventure.

Back To Top