Did you know Vietnamese cuisine is among the healthiest in the world? It’s true. Vietnamese dishes focus on flavorful fresh herbs and vegetables rather than dairy and oil often found throughout western diets. Not only is traditional Vietnamese food healthy, but it’s also delicious. Here’s everything you need to know about Vietnamese street food and traditional cuisine before embarking on your journey.
Vietnam is currently launching a pilot e-Visa system for citizens from 80 countries. APPLY FOR EVISA NOW=> CLICK HERE! Key Ingredients Found in Vietnamese CuisineTraditional Vietnamese food is developed with a high level of mindfulness through the Asian principle of the five elements: water, wood, fire, earth, and metal. These elements work in harmony with colors, organs, spices, senses, and nutrients to create a balance that’s most beneficial to the body. The flavor combinations create a distinct balance between “hot” and “cool.” All Vietnamese cuisine is designed with these basic principles of Yin and Yang in mind. Some of the most common ingredients in Vietnamese dishes include:
Flavorful spices include:
What’s with All the French Food?Western influence in Vietnam from France dates back several centuries with trading and military conquest. France harshly ruled Vietnam as a colony for roughly 100 years until revolutionary leader Hồ Chí Minh declared independence in 1945 on behalf of the Vietnamese people. French’s military occupation is history, but the western influence remains in Vietnamese cuisine and fashion on the streets of Hồ Chí Minh city today. Vietnam has brilliantly incorporated French ingredients and food styles into their traditional cuisine with breads, pâtés, and grilled meats. Traditional Vietnamese Food by RegionAs you travel throughout Vietnam, you’ll notice Vietnamese dishes vary depending on the region. These regional differences depend on local ingredient availability, fresh food sources, and traditional indigenous recipes. North: Subtler Flavors and an Emphasis on Fish Vietnamese dishes in the country’s northern regions put less of an emphasis on bold spices and flavors. Due to the north’s colder climate, spices are harder to come by, so northern traditional Vietnamese dishes focus on flavors like black pepper instead of chili. Livestock is also generally less abundant in the north, so instead you’ll find Vietnamese street food that includes lots of crab, prawns, shrimp, mollusks, freshwater fish, and other shellfish. Central: Complex Combinations and Small Plates Lovers of spicy food will fall head over heels for central Vietnam’s bold dishes and complex flavor combinations. Central Vietnam is nestled in the mountains with rich and fertile soil which makes it ideal for cultivating flavorful spices. Due to its location of the country’s final dynasty, Vietnam’s central region boasts sophisticated “royal” cuisine with bright colors and vibrant flavors like chili and, of course, seafood. South: Vibrant Fruits, Herbs, and Veggies Southern regions of Vietnam are also excellent for agriculture due to the warm tropic climate and fertile lands. For this reason, Vietnamese street food here is crafted with fresh herbs, fruits, and vegetables. It’s also an ideal location for raising livestock so dishes often include meatballs, beef, chicken, duck, or pork. Flavors in this region often include garlic, onions, shallots, and basil. What sets Vietnamese food in the southern region apart? Sugar. Here you’ll find sweet dishes with lots of coconut milk. Vietnamese Dishes You Have to TryThis is by no means a definitive list. Vietnamese cuisine is extensive, and it would be impossible to cover all the amazing Vietnamese dishes in one list. Nonetheless, here are some of the best Vietnamese food you absolutely must try.
Drinks and Desserts The flavors don’t stop at dinner. Top off your meal with a tasty treat or maybe even a nightcap.
Best Vietnamese Food Tips to Ensure SafetyThose with food allergies will want to take special care when traveling through Vietnam. People with dairy allergies can enjoy many choices since cow’s milk is often replaced with coconut or soy milk throughout the country. Anyone with a shellfish, soy, or gluten allergy should take special consideration when planning their trip since most dishes contain various types of fish or shrimp sauce. You may want to consider switching to vegetarian meals for your trip – and you’ll certainly have more than enough choices.
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