If you’ve ever found yourself yearning for a delicious and satisfying Vietnamese dish but don’t have the time or energy for an elaborate cooking session, look no further. This article is your go-to guide for quick and easy Vietnamese recipes that will not only satisfy your cravings but also leave you wanting more. From the fragrant flavors of pho to the refreshing crunch of banh mi, we’ve got you covered. So, grab your apron and get ready to whip up a taste of Vietnam right in your own kitchen.
Appetizers
Fresh Spring Rolls
Fresh spring rolls are a light and refreshing appetizer that can satisfy your cravings for a healthy and delicious snack. Made with rice paper wrappers, these rolls are filled with an assortment of fresh vegetables, herbs, and either shrimp, chicken, or tofu. The combination of crunchy vegetables, fragrant herbs, and tender protein makes for a satisfying bite. These spring rolls are commonly served with a peanut dipping sauce that provides a creamy and slightly sweet flavor to complement the fresh ingredients.
Crispy Fried Spring Rolls
If you prefer something with a bit more crunch, crispy fried spring rolls are the perfect appetizer for you. These rolls are made using a different type of wrapper that is suitable for deep frying. Filled with a mixture of ground meat, vegetables, and glass noodles, these spring rolls are crispy on the outside and flavorful on the inside. The dipping sauce served with crispy fried spring rolls is typically a tangy and slightly spicy fish sauce that adds a burst of flavor to each bite.
Vietnamese Banh Mi
Banh Mi is a popular Vietnamese sandwich that combines French and Vietnamese culinary influences. It typically consists of a crispy baguette filled with a variety of colorful and flavorful ingredients. Traditional fillings include marinated grilled meat, pickled carrots and daikon radishes, fresh cucumber slices, cilantro, and a spread of mayonnaise or pate. The combination of ingredients creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, making it a satisfying and quick option for a Vietnamese meal.
Noodle Dishes
Pho
Pho is arguably the most iconic Vietnamese dish and a comfort food for many. Consisting of a fragrant and flavorful broth, rice noodles, and a choice of protein such as thinly sliced beef or chicken, this dish is a hearty and satisfying noodle soup. The broth, which is typically simmered for hours with aromatic spices, provides a warm and comforting base, while the fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and lime wedges add a burst of freshness. Pho is often enjoyed for breakfast or lunch, but it can be enjoyed any time of the day.
Bun Cha
Bun Cha is a popular dish originating from Hanoi, known for its grilled pork, rice vermicelli noodles, and accompanying herbs and dipping sauce. The grilled pork is marinated in a flavorful mixture of fish sauce, garlic, and various spices, giving it a slightly sweet and smoky taste. Served with a generous amount of fresh herbs, vegetables, and a dipping sauce made with fish sauce, sugar, garlic, and chili, bun cha is a harmonious combination of flavors and textures that will leave you satisfied and craving for more.
Cao Lau
Cao Lau is a regional dish from the ancient town of Hoi An in Central Vietnam. This unique noodle dish features thick yellow noodles, slices of tender pork, crunchy greens, and a few slices of crispy rice crackers. The noodles are cooked until al dente and then briefly soaked in lye water, which gives them a distinct texture and flavor. The toppings are then arranged on top of the noodles, and the dish is often served with a small amount of seasoned broth. Cao Lau is a delightful combination of tastes and textures, making it a must-try dish for noodle lovers.
Rice Dishes
Com Tam
Com Tam, also known as broken rice, is a popular rice dish in Vietnam. It gets its name from the cracked rice grains that are the result of the milling process. The broken rice is typically served with a variety of toppings, including grilled pork chop, shredded pork skin, steamed egg, pickled vegetables, and fish sauce. The combination of flavors, textures, and colors makes for a satisfying and filling meal. Com Tam is often enjoyed for lunch or dinner and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Fried Rice
Fried rice is a simple yet tasty dish that can be easily customized to suit your preferences. In Vietnamese cuisine, fried rice is often made with leftover rice, which adds a nice texture and prevents the dish from becoming mushy. The rice is stir-fried with various ingredients such as shrimp, chicken, vegetables, and scrambled eggs. A combination of soy sauce, fish sauce, and other seasonings adds a savory and aromatic flavor to the dish. Fried rice is a versatile option that can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish alongside other Vietnamese favorites.
Vietnamese Sticky Rice
Vietnamese Sticky Rice, also known as Xoi, is a classic Vietnamese dish made from glutinous rice. It is often enjoyed as a breakfast or snack, but it can also be eaten as a savory or sweet dish throughout the day. Savory versions of Vietnamese Sticky Rice include toppings such as grilled pork, shredded chicken, or mung bean paste, while sweet versions are usually served with coconut cream and sugar. The sticky and chewy texture of the rice, combined with the various toppings, creates a delightful balance of flavors and makes for a satisfying meal.
Soups
Bun Bo Hue
Bun Bo Hue is a popular spicy beef noodle soup originating from the city of Hue in Central Vietnam. It is characterized by its vibrant red broth, which gets its color and heat from a combination of chili oil and annatto seeds. The soup is loaded with a variety of ingredients, including beef shank, pork knuckle, pig’s blood cubes, and rice vermicelli noodles. Topped with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and a squeeze of lime, Bun Bo Hue offers a spicy and flavorful experience that is sure to satisfy your cravings for a hearty and warming soup.
Canh Chua
Canh Chua, or sour soup, is a popular dish in Vietnamese cuisine. It is a sweet and sour soup made with a variety of vegetables, herbs, and either fish or shrimp. The broth is typically flavored with tamarind paste, pineapple, tomatoes, and a hint of sugar to balance the acidity. The combination of flavors creates a harmonious balance between sweet, sour, and savory, making it a refreshing and light soup option. Canh Chua is often enjoyed as a main course, served with steamed rice and accompanied by other dishes.
Banh Canh
Banh Canh is a thick and chewy noodle soup that is commonly enjoyed in Southern Vietnam. Made from a combination of rice flour and tapioca flour, the noodles have a unique texture that sets them apart from other noodle varieties. The soup is typically made with either a seafood or pork-based broth and is served with an assortment of toppings such as pork belly, shrimp, fish cake, and herbs. Banh Canh is a comforting and satisfying soup that is perfect for those looking to try something different from the usual rice or pho dishes.
Stir-fry
Lemongrass Chicken
Lemongrass Chicken is a flavorful and aromatic stir-fry dish that combines tender chicken, fragrant lemongrass, and a variety of vegetables. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, fish sauce, garlic, and lemongrass, which infuses it with a delightful citrusy and slightly sweet flavor. Stir-fried with an assortment of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and carrots, this dish is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. Lemongrass Chicken is often served with steamed rice or noodles and is a quick and easy option for a satisfying meal.
Beef with Vegetables
Beef with Vegetables is a classic stir-fry dish that is both flavorful and nutritious. Thinly sliced beef is marinated in a combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and garlic, which enhances its savory taste. Fresh vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots are stir-fried together with the beef, creating a colorful and balanced meal. The tender beef, crisp vegetables, and savory sauce make for a satisfying combination that is perfect for a quick and easy dinner.
Tofu and Vegetable Stir-fry
For those looking for a vegetarian or vegan option, Tofu and Vegetable Stir-fry is a great choice. Cubes of tofu are stir-fried with a variety of vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, and broccoli, creating a wholesome and satisfying dish. The stir-fry sauce, typically made with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sweetness, adds a savory and umami flavor to the dish. Tofu and Vegetable Stir-fry can be enjoyed on its own or served with steamed rice for a complete and nutritious meal.
Grilled Dishes
Grilled Pork Skewers
Grilled Pork Skewers, also known as Nem Nuong, are a popular street food in Vietnam. Made from ground pork mixed with various spices and seasonings, the skewers are grilled to perfection, resulting in a smoky and flavorful dish. Grilled Pork Skewers are often served on a bed of fresh lettuce and herbs, along with rice paper wrappers and a dipping sauce such as peanut or fish sauce. The combination of the juicy and flavorful pork, crunchy vegetables, and tangy dipping sauce creates a delightful and satisfying meal.
Grilled Shrimp
Grilled Shrimp is a simple and delicious dish that highlights the natural flavors of fresh seafood. The shrimp are typically marinated in a mixture of fish sauce, garlic, and lime juice, which adds a tangy and savory taste to the dish. Grilled to perfection, the shrimp are juicy and succulent, with a slightly smoky flavor. Grilled Shrimp can be enjoyed as an appetizer, served on a skewer with a dipping sauce, or as a main course, served with steamed rice and an assortment of vegetables.
Grilled Lemongrass Beef
Grilled Lemongrass Beef, also known as Bo La Lot, is a popular dish made with thinly sliced beef that has been marinated in a fragrant mixture of lemongrass, garlic, and spices. The marinated beef is then wrapped in betel leaves, which impart a unique and aromatic flavor to the dish. The wrapped beef parcels are grilled until cooked through and slightly charred, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish. Grilled Lemongrass Beef is often served with rice vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce, creating a satisfying and delicious meal.
Sauces and Dips
Nuoc Cham
Nuoc Cham is a versatile dipping sauce that is commonly used in Vietnamese cuisine. Made from a combination of fish sauce, sugar, lime juice, garlic, and chili, this sauce is both tangy and slightly spicy. Nuoc Cham is commonly served with a variety of dishes, including fresh spring rolls, crispy fried spring rolls, and grilled meats. Its sweet, salty, sour, and spicy flavors add depth and complexity to any dish, making it a staple condiment in Vietnamese cooking.
Peanut Sauce
Peanut Sauce is a rich and creamy sauce that is commonly used as a dipping sauce for Vietnamese dishes. Made from roasted peanuts, coconut milk, soy sauce, and various spices, this sauce has a nutty, slightly sweet, and savory flavor. Peanut Sauce is often paired with dishes such as fresh spring rolls, crispy fried spring rolls, and grilled meats. The creamy texture and flavor of the sauce provide a satisfying contrast to the fresh and crispy ingredients, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Vietnamese Dipping Sauce
Vietnamese Dipping Sauce, also known as Tuong Cham, is a flavorful sauce commonly used in Vietnamese cuisine. Made from a combination of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, sugar, and chili, this sauce has a tangy, slightly sweet, and spicy taste. Vietnamese Dipping Sauce is often served with dishes such as fresh spring rolls, crispy fried spring rolls, and grilled meats. The sauce adds a burst of flavor to each bite, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Desserts
Vietnamese Coffee Ice Cream
Vietnamese Coffee Ice Cream is a delightful and indulgent dessert that combines the bold and rich flavors of Vietnamese coffee with the creamy texture of ice cream. The coffee is typically brewed strong and mixed with sweetened condensed milk, which gives it a velvety and sweet taste. The mixture is then churned into ice cream, resulting in a smooth and luscious dessert. Vietnamese Coffee Ice Cream is often enjoyed on its own or served with crushed peanuts or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra touch of indulgence.
Che Ba Mau (Three Color Dessert)
Che Ba Mau, also known as Three Color Dessert, is a popular Vietnamese sweet soup that is both visually appealing and delicious. This dessert consists of layers of colored jellies, sweetened mung bean paste, and coconut milk. The jellies are made from a combination of agar agar and food coloring, creating vibrant hues of red, green, and yellow. Each layer is topped with a generous amount of coconut milk, which adds a creamy and slightly sweet flavor to the dessert. Che Ba Mau is a delightful and refreshing dessert that is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Coconut Pandan Jelly
Coconut Pandan Jelly is a light and refreshing dessert that is commonly enjoyed in Vietnam. Made from a mixture of pandan juice, agar agar, coconut milk, and sugar, this jelly has a distinct and fragrant flavor. The pandan juice gives the jelly a vibrant green color and a subtle floral aroma. Once set, the jelly is cut into small cubes and served chilled with a drizzle of coconut cream. Coconut Pandan Jelly is a simple yet delightful dessert that is perfect for cooling down on a hot day.
Beverages
Vietnamese Iced Coffee
Vietnamese Iced Coffee, also known as Ca Phe Sua Da, is a popular and refreshing beverage that combines strong Vietnamese coffee with sweetened condensed milk and ice. The coffee is traditionally brewed using a Vietnamese coffee filter, which allows for a slow and strong extraction. Once brewed, the coffee is poured over a glass filled with ice and sweetened condensed milk, resulting in a smooth and creamy drink. Vietnamese Iced Coffee is a perfect pick-me-up for coffee lovers and a great way to beat the heat.
Sugarcane Juice
Sugarcane Juice, also known as Nuoc Mia, is a sweet and refreshing beverage made from the juice extracted from sugarcane stalks. The sugarcane is run through a press to extract the juice, which is then served chilled over ice. Sugarcane Juice has a naturally sweet taste and a cooling effect, making it a popular choice to quench thirst on hot days. This refreshing beverage is a staple street food drink in Vietnam and is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.
Jasmine Tea
Jasmine Tea is a fragrant and calming beverage that is commonly enjoyed in Vietnamese households. Made from jasmine-scented green tea leaves, this tea has a delicate and floral aroma. The tea leaves are typically brewed using hot water and allowed to steep for a few minutes, releasing their flavors and fragrance. Jasmine Tea is often sipped on its own or served alongside meals as a refreshing and soothing beverage.
Vegetarian Options
Tofu Banh Mi
Tofu Banh Mi is a vegetarian twist on the classic Vietnamese sandwich. Instead of the traditional grilled meat fillings, this version features marinated and pan-fried tofu. The tofu is usually sliced into thin strips and marinated in a flavorful mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and spices before being pan-fried to achieve a crispy texture. The tofu is then layered inside a crusty baguette along with pickled carrots and daikon radishes, fresh cucumber slices, cilantro, and a spread of mayonnaise or pate. Tofu Banh Mi offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will satisfy both meat lovers and vegetarians alike.
Vegetarian Pho
Vegetarian Pho is a delicious and hearty noodle soup that caters to those who prefer a meat-free option. The broth is typically made from a combination of vegetable stock, aromatic spices, and herbs, which gives it a rich and flavorful base. The noodles are served with an assortment of fresh vegetables such as bean sprouts, Thai basil, lime wedges, and sliced jalapenos. Tofu or seitan can be added for an extra protein boost. Vegetarian Pho is a warm and comforting dish that is sure to satisfy your cravings for a flavorful and nourishing meal.
Vegan Banh Xeo
Banh Xeo, a Vietnamese savory pancake, can be made vegan-friendly by omitting the eggs and using ingredients such as tofu and vegetables as fillings. The batter is typically made from a mixture of rice flour, turmeric powder, coconut milk, and water, which gives it a vibrant yellow color and a slightly sweet taste. The batter is poured into a hot pan and topped with a combination of tofu, bean sprouts, mushrooms, and other vegetables before being folded in half. Vegan Banh Xeo is a delicious and satisfying option for those looking for a plant-based alternative to the traditional dish.
In conclusion, Vietnamese cuisine offers a wide variety of appetizers, noodle dishes, rice dishes, soups, stir-fried dishes, grilled dishes, sauces and dips, desserts, beverages, and vegetarian options that can satisfy any craving. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing like fresh spring rolls or a comforting and hearty bowl of pho, Vietnamese cuisine has something to offer. From the fragrant and flavorful noodle dishes to the bold and smoky grilled meats, each dish is made with care and attention to detail. So, the next time you’re looking for a quick and easy Vietnamese recipe, give one of these options a try, and you won’t be disappointed!
