Vietnamese cuisine is a delightful combination of balanced, flavorful, and healthy cooking, with an abundance of fresh vegetables and herbs incorporated into every meal. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to enjoy meat-free options, Vietnam offers a plethora of vegetarian-friendly dishes to satisfy your taste buds. Join me on this culinary journey through Vietnam as we uncover the best vegetarian food the country has to offer.
What to Expect
Vietnamese cuisine varies from north to south, with each city boasting its own specialty. However, certain dishes are universally popular throughout the country. Prepare to indulge in steaming and aromatic noodle soups, crunchy banh mi sandwiches, and rice paper rolls bursting with herbs, pickled vegetables, and lettuce. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a robust cup of Vietnamese coffee. The best part? These iconic Vietnamese dishes can easily be enjoyed in their vegetarian versions.
Most Vietnamese restaurants offer a wide range of salads and cooked vegetables, with dedicated sections for vegetarian options. Start your day with a satisfying banh mi filled with egg or a bowl of mushroom congee. For lunch, delight in a banana heart or lotus stem salad served with rice crackers, or a hearty bowl of rice noodles in flavorful broth with fresh greens. As for dinner, the options are endless. Indulge in garlicky water spinach, fresh spring rolls, grilled eggplants, lemongrass and chili-infused tofu, caramelized mushrooms, colorful fried rice, and the sweet delights of Vietnamese che for dessert. With such a bountiful array of vegetarian options, you won’t go hungry in Vietnam. If anything, you may find it hard to leave!
Where to Look
While the majority of the Vietnamese population consists of adventurous meat-eaters, vegetarianism is viewed positively in the country. A quick online search will reveal established vegetarian restaurants in your vicinity. However, for a more authentic experience, consider wandering near pagodas and temples to discover hidden eateries that cater to monks and nuns with delectable vegetarian meals. Look out for the words ‘quán chay’ or ‘cơm chay’ to locate vegetarian establishments or find veggie options on regular menus.
Vietnamese Buddhists traditionally abstain from meat on the 1st and 15th days of each month, resulting in an abundance of vegetarian options in restaurants and morning markets on these special days. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to savor the flavors of Vietnam at vegetarian buffets, where you can enjoy a wide array of novel dishes for just a dollar or two.
What to Order
Equipping yourself with a few key phrases will ensure a smooth dining experience in Vietnam. The word ‘chay’ (pronounced ‘chai’) is your magic word. Simply say, “Tôi ăn chay” to let someone know you’re vegetarian, or say “không thịt” to request no meat in your dish. It’s also important to communicate your preference for no fish sauce by saying “không nước mắm.” You can easily add the word ‘chay’ to request the vegetarian version of any regular dish. Here are a few examples:
- Phở chay = vegetarian pho
- Bánh mì chay = vegetarian baguettes
- Gỏi cuốn chay = fresh vegetarian spring rolls
- Mì xào chay = stir-fried vegetarian noodles
To truly experience the vibrant vegetarian scene in Vietnam, there are some dishes you simply can’t miss. Indulge in a banana flower salad with lime called ‘Nộm hoa chuối’ or savor the braised tofu in tomato sauce known as ‘Đậu sốt cà chua.’ Don’t forget to try the stir-fried morning glory with garlic, or ‘Rau muống xào tỏi,’ and the savory rice pancakes filled with bean sprouts and mushrooms, called ‘Bánh xèo chay.’ If you find yourself in Hoi An, make sure to sample the Hoi An noodles in soy dressing with greens, known as ‘Cao lầu chay.’ Lastly, indulge in the flavors of tofu fried with shredded lemongrass and chili, or ‘Đậu hũ chiên sả ớt,’ and the hearty eggplant simmered with green onion, or ‘Cà tím mỡ hành.’
Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Vietnam
Vietnam is home to countless excellent vegetarian restaurants in every major destination. In Hanoi, treat yourself to an elegant meal at Uu Dam Chay or enjoy a quiet dining experience at Aummee. In Hoi An, Karma Waters, Am Vegetarian, and Annen Hoi An restaurant are sure to satisfy your hunger. For those in Hue, don’t miss the delectable offerings at Organic An Lac and indulge in the fig salad at Spice Viet. Lastly, in Ho Chi Minh City, Hum Restaurant and Pi Bistro boast amazing menus that are not to be missed.
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