Few countries can rival Vietnam when it comes to the sheer variety and delectable taste of its noodles. From the robust flavors of bún bò Huế to the playful textures of cao lầu, Vietnam offers a tantalizing array of noodle dishes that will leave you craving for more.
Bún bò from Huế
Originating from the old imperial capital of Vietnam, bún bò Huế is a dish that showcases the bold creativity of the local cooks. Huế is known for its spicy cuisine, and this complex noodle dish is no exception. The rich, red broth is crafted from boiled pork and beef bones, lemongrass, chili, fermented shrimp paste, and fish sauce, creating a symphony of flavors. The thick rice noodles are accompanied by thin slices of boiled beef shank and crab balls, and a squeeze of lime, chili paste, and shallot vinegar adds an extra kick.
TRY IT: Bun bo Hue Ba Tuyet, 37 Nguyen Cong Tru Street, Huế
Cao lầu from Hội An
The name cao lầu, meaning ‘high floor’, carries a sense of privilege. Originally served to wealthy businessmen who dined on the higher floors of Hội An’s restaurants, this dish has now become accessible to all. The chewy texture of cao lầu, inspired by Japanese udon noodles, sets it apart. Tender char siu pork, crispy greens, and crunchy crackling are paired with a lemongrass-infused broth, resulting in a sublime taste. Whether you find yourself on the ground floor or higher, you can relish this exquisite Hội An delicacy.
TRY IT: Trung Bac Restaurant, 87 Tran Phu Street, Hội An
Bún chả from Hà Nội
Hà Nội, known for its culinary delights, is home to the humble dipping noodle called bún chả. While the name translates to rice noodles and grilled pork, the secret lies in its sauce. A mixture of vinegar, diluted fish sauce, sugar, and german turnip creates a mild sweet-and-sour dipping medium that perfectly complements the smoky aroma of chargrilled pork. Look for the sizzle and smoke rising from the sidewalks of Hà Nội, and you’ll find a plate of delicious bún chả waiting for you.
TRY IT: Bun cha Cua Dong, 41 Cua Dong Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hà Nội
Bún thang from Hà Nội
Delicate yet satisfying, bún thang represents the sophistication of Hà Nội’s cuisine. This soup is a masterpiece, with over 20 ingredients meticulously combined. Tender chicken, golden eggs, Vietnamese ham, and dried shrimps are shredded and artfully arranged on round rice noodles, creating a harmonious blend. The clear, aromatic broth, with notes of shrimp and mushroom, is constantly skimmed during cooking. When served with a dash of fermented shrimp paste, a bowl of bún thang is a truly delightful experience.
TRY IT: Bun thang Ba Duc, 48 Cau Go Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hà Nội
Hủ tiếu from the Mekong Delta
Hailing from the abundant farms and rivers of the Mekong Delta, hủ tiếu showcases the finest ingredients of the region. Freshwater shrimp, minced pork, quail eggs, and liver are immersed in a flavorful pork bone broth, while sautéed garlic adds a zing to the dish. As you slurp the clear rice noodles, you’ll experience the warm and accommodating nature of the Delta’s people. Soak up the unique atmosphere by enjoying a bowl of hủ tiếu on a boat ride through the Delta, or savor it at a local eatery in Ho Chi Minh City.
TRY IT: Hu tieu Ba Hoang, 56 Vo Van Tan Street, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
Travel Guide brings you these five outstanding Vietnamese noodle dishes that go beyond the famous pho. Each dish is a culinary adventure, showcasing the diverse flavors and textures Vietnam has to offer. Discover the delights of Huế, Hội An, Hà Nội, and the Mekong Delta, one bowl of noodles at a time.
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