Vietnamese cuisine is world-renowned, with dishes like Pho and Banh Mi taking center stage in restaurants worldwide. But if you dig a little deeper, you'll find a treasure trove of lesser-known dishes that are just as flavorful and rich in history. These are the hidden gems that local foodies swear by—delicious, unique creations that give you a true taste of Vietnam’s vibrant culinary landscape.
Let’s take a look at some of these must-try dishes that go beyond the classics!
1. Vietnamese Rice Crepe (Bánh Ướt)
Bánh Ướt, meaning "wet cake" in Vietnamese, is a delicate, steamed rice crepe made from rice flour and water. This dish is known for its silky texture, which melts in your mouth with every bite. Typically served with a variety of fillings, including grilled pork, fresh herbs, and crispy fried shallots, Bánh Ướt is then topped with savory fish sauce, creating the perfect balance of flavors—salty, sweet, and fragrant.
What makes Bánh Ướt special is its simplicity and the way it showcases the fundamental elements of Vietnamese cooking: freshness, balance, and bold flavors. The dish is often enjoyed as a breakfast item or a light meal in local eateries, where you can watch vendors skillfully steam and fold the rice crepes to order. For many locals, this dish is a comforting staple that reminds them of home.
2. Sizzling Pancake (Bánh Xèo)
If you’re looking for something both crispy and flavorful, look no further than Bánh Xèo, often referred to as the "sizzling pancake." This dish gets its name from the sizzling sound the batter makes when it hits the hot skillet. Made from rice flour, coconut milk, and turmeric (which gives it its vibrant yellow color), Bánh Xèo is filled with pork, shrimp, and fresh bean sprouts. The pancake is then folded in half, much like an omelette, and served with lettuce and herbs, which are used to wrap pieces of the pancake before dipping them into tangy fish sauce.
Bánh Xèo’s origins are believed to date back to central Vietnam, where it was originally enjoyed as a peasant dish. Over time, it has spread across the country and evolved, with each region offering its own take on the classic. In the South, Bánh Xèo tends to be larger and more decadent, while in the central regions, the pancake is smaller and more refined. No matter where you try it, the dish is an explosion of textures and flavors that will leave you wanting more.
3. Scallop and Sea Snail Dishes (Ốc)
For adventurous eaters, Ốc (sea snails) are a must-try when visiting Vietnam. In Vietnamese cuisine, snails and shellfish are prepared in various ways—grilled, stir-fried, steamed, or even sautéed with garlic, lemongrass, and chili. One of the most popular dishes is Ốc Len Xào Dừa, where sea snails are cooked in a creamy coconut milk sauce, creating a dish that’s both rich and aromatic. Scallops, too, are a common delicacy, often grilled with scallions and peanuts or baked with butter and cheese.
Eating Ốc is as much about the experience as it is about the flavors. Locals love gathering at casual outdoor stalls known as quán ốc, where they can enjoy various snail dishes over a cold beer. The process of eating Ốc—using a toothpick to extract the meat from the shell—may take some getting used to, but it’s a fun, interactive way to enjoy one of Vietnam’s more unique culinary delights.
Dishes 4 and 5
Curious about dish 4 and dish 5? We saved the best for last! Click here to discover Egg Coffee and Mini Savory Cakes — Vietnam’s hidden gems you can’t miss.
