Southern Vietnam In 9 Dishes

The cuisine of Southern Vietnam is known for its simplicity and great diversity. Indeed, the region benefits from the wealth of its coastline and the mysterious Mekong River. Traveling in the south is, in short, letting yourself be carried by the current and its unique sweet/salty flavors.

In this article, you will discover some culinary specialties that will help you choose the best restaurants when the time comes!

The Iconic Dishes of Southern Vietnam

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The Famous Bo Bun

Famous, because this dish is widely popular in Western countries. You’ve probably already had one or two during your lunch break! Refreshing, healthy, and hearty, it has many qualities. In the south, it is served with cold rice vermicelli, vegetables, sautéed beef or tofu, aromatic herbs, and fish sauce. For crunchiness, forget the spring roll—here in Vietnam, we garnish it with fried onions or peanuts. For fans of this "salad," don’t miss the original version, though be warned, the risk of not wanting to order it again once you're back home is quite high!

Refreshing Spring Rolls

Just like its counterpart, Bo Bun, spring rolls are a well-known dish in Asian cuisine. Very popular, its springtime flavors are found throughout all regions of Vietnam. Typically, the rice paper rolls are filled with rice vermicelli, slices of pork belly, shrimp, winged chives, and other aromatic herbs. What sets the spring rolls in this part of the country apart is the sauce, made with fermented soybean paste, which has a stronger taste and thicker consistency.

The Simplicity of Com Tam

In the family of many Com (“rice”) dishes served in Vietnam, in the south of Vietnam, also known as the rice granary, Com Tam (“rice with three treasures”) is an institution in Ho Chi Minh City. This complete dish is served with broken fragrant rice, pork crackling, steamed omelet, a grilled pork chop, and some fresh vegetables. Well-served, this dish is perfect for a big appetite.

The Crispy Banh Xeo

Banh Xeo is a savory pancake enjoyed both by locals and foreigners. Made with rice flour, turmeric powder, and coconut milk, the famous yellow pancake is filled with bean sprouts, shrimp, and pork. While in the north, Banh Xeo is wrapped in rice paper, in the south, it is enjoyed with a large mustard leaf and aromatic herbs. Let yourself be tempted by its unique flavors—the only risk is asking for seconds!

Popular Dishes of Southern Vietnam

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The Unmissable Banh Mi

Presented in its best light in the culinary specialties of Northern Vietnam, Banh Mi is a fine combination of Franco-Vietnamese cuisine. The famous Vietnamese "Jambon Beurre" can be enjoyed at any time of day, on every street corner. A golden baguette, pâté, mayonnaise, "Cha Lua" meat paste, ham, fresh chili, and herbs—this creates an excellent sandwich with Asian flavors.

Hu Tieu Soup

An article about Vietnamese cuisine wouldn’t be complete without mentioning soup. Hu Tieu is the iconic soup of Southern Vietnam, especially in Ho Chi Minh City. However, its origins are Chinese and Cambodian. The broth, made from pork bones and dried shrimp, is served with rice noodles, pieces of pork, shrimp, and quail eggs. You can enjoy its unique flavors as early as breakfast.

A Little Sweetness with the Pia Cake

You can enjoy this sweet treat in the province of Soc Trang, on the waters of the mighty Mekong. This Vietnamese dessert is made with durian* (known for its strong smell), mung beans, and duck egg yolks. We understand that these ingredients might raise some questions when we're from a continent known for its best pastries in the world. Does Pia compare to a lemon meringue pie? Patriotic but not crazy, no. However, its texture and unique flavor will give you a chance to explore our distinctive approach to pastry.

The Promise of a Great Vietnamese Dinner with Family and Friends

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A "Lâu" Hot Pot Evening

Far from Burgundy and Savoie, here the fondues are broths typically simmered with meat bones or fish carcasses, aromatic herbs, and vegetables... There are as many varieties as there are restaurants! In the South, we are lucky to have a beautiful coastline and fresh fish. Take advantage of this by sharing a delicious seafood fondue – lâu: cuttlefish, shrimp, crab, vegetables, noodles... A wonderful opportunity to spend a delightful time with family or friends!

A River Delight with Elephant Ears

A journey through southern Vietnam means a visit to the Mekong. It’s impossible to overlook the vast delta, with its cultural and culinary riches! If you’re lucky enough to take a cruise on this enigmatic river, make a stop at a local restaurant to try the "elephant ear fish." First fried, the fish is placed in the center of the table, ready to be picked apart by your guests. You take the white flesh and place it in a rice paper, then fill it with other ingredients available to you: salad, mint, vegetables, and fruits. A refreshing break not to be missed!

Southern Vietnam, the promise of a revitalizing and delicious adventure.

Southern Vietnam is a haven of peace known for its hospitality and the generosity of its people. These two qualities are reflected in the dishes we enjoy. Between two excursions and a few hundred smiles exchanged, sit down to taste the best fish dishes the country has to offer.

If you have any questions or would like us to organize your trip, please contact Vietnam Insolite !