(TITC) - Lauren Breedlove, a freelance writer and photographer from New York recently introduced 14 famous Vietnamese dishes on the Celebrity Cruises' website, describing the country as vibrant with an exciting street food scene, intriguing culinary delights, and world-famous dishes that serve to dazzle hungry travellers.
Pho (noodle soups) topped the list, which is one of the best Vietnamese dishes. This traditional soup can be found almost anywhere in the country and is a prime example of culinary beauty in simplicity. A mixture of broth, rice noodles, fresh herbs like ginger and green onion, and either chicken (pho ga) or beef (pho bo) warms the stomach, and the soul, Breedlove stated.
Pho bo (Photo: Collection)
Another Vietnamese staple enjoyed around the world is Banh Mi which is the country’s famous sandwich. A crisp Banh Mi combines with meat, cheese, fresh and pickled vegetables, butter, and chilli sauce. Each region will have its own version of Banh Mi, however, it remains a very popular street food item, ideal as a snack or a quick meal, any time of day.
Banh mi (Photo: Collection)
In Ha Noi, you’ll find a simple version of the banh mi, while in Ho Chi Minh City, the sandwich is a little heavier on the sauces, Breedlove commented.
The dish is followed by the healthy snack Goi Cuon (Vietnamese summer, or fresh spring rolls); Banh Xeo (Vietnam’s crispy crepe or pancake-style dish stuffed with shrimp, pork, herbs, onion, and bean sprouts); Mi Quang, the dish, which according to Breedlove, the comforting meal rivals the ever-popular pho; Cha Ca (fried fish); Cao Lau (noodle dish with pork, adorned with wonton-style crackers); Bo Kho (beef stew), and Ca Kho To (caramelised and braised snakehead fish or catfish).
Banh Xeo (Photo: Collection)
Cao Lau (Photo: Collection)
Mi Quang (Photo: Collection)
Cha Ca (Photo: Collection)
The blogger also recommended Bun Cha, a lunchtime favourite nationwide, particularly in the capital city of Ha Noi which is located in the northern region of the country.
Bun Cha (Photo: Collection)
The crispy outside and juicy inside of the meatball-like patties combine to be the perfect contrast to the fish sauce and lime broth, lettuce or cabbage, bean sprouts, basil, and rice noodles when eaten together, she wrote.
Furthermore, the blogger suggested healthy food options, including Rau Muong Xao Toi (stir-fried water spinach), Banh Bao Vac (white rose dumpling, originating in Hoi An), Che Ba Mau (three colour dessert), and Bot Chien (fried dough).
The country can be enjoyed as a feast for the senses, boasting a range of exotic flavours and scents which are woven into the exciting food culture. Visitors are therefore encouraged to dive into the best Vietnamese dishes through a cooking class, food tour, market meanderings, and tours of street food, the article concluded.
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