1. Saigon Broken Rice
Broken rice, or ‘com tam’ in Vietnamese, is a beloved staple in Saigon, known for its aromatic, flavorful, and rich taste.
Saigon Broken Rice is made from broken rice grains, accompanied by a variety of meats such as grilled pork chops, pork skin, sausage, fried eggs, and clay pot fish. It is served with a side of sweet and sour fish sauce, with a hint of spice.
Broken Rice – The Culinary Essence of Saigon
The dish is beautifully garnished with slices of cucumber, tomato, herbs, and crispy shallots. Despite being a humble dish, broken rice holds a strong appeal and adds a unique touch to Saigon’s culinary scene.
It can be enjoyed at any time of the day, from early morning to late at night. Beyond just a meal, it represents a distinct culinary culture of the people of Saigon.
2. Nam Vang Noodle Soup
When it comes to iconic dishes of Saigon, Nam Vang Noodle Soup undoubtedly earns a spot on that list.
This dish never fails to impress. Nam Vang Noodle Soup is a signature dish of Saigon cuisine, blending influences from various cultures.
Nam Vang Noodle Soup – A Culinary Star of Saigon
It features white rice noodles and a sweet, clear broth made from simmering pork bones, dried shrimp, and squid. The highlight of this dish is the combination of various meats, including minced pork, fresh shrimp, pork liver, pork intestines, and quail eggs, resulting in a robust and enticing flavor. Accompanying herbs, bean sprouts, lime, and chili enhance the sour and spicy notes.
3. Banh Mi – Vietnamese Sandwich
Another captivating specialty that MIA.vn would like to mention is the iconic Banh Mi. It is considered Vietnam’s national dish and is adored by locals and visitors alike.
Saigon Banh Mi – A Famous Street Food, Symbolic of Vietnamese Cuisine
A typical Banh Mi sandwich is packed with an assortment of ingredients, including meats, pork roll, pate, cucumber, carrot, pickled radish, and herbs. Saigon’s Banh Mi boasts a crispy crust, soft interior, and savory fillings.
4. Pha Lau – Offal Stew
Pha Lau is a unique dish made from various animal offal, such as tongue, ear, intestines, and stomach, of pigs, cows, or ducks. These ingredients are carefully prepared and marinated with spices and Chinese herbs like five-spice powder, cassia, and star anise, creating a distinctive aroma and flavor.
Pha Lau – A Renowned Saigon Delicacy
Pha Lau can be prepared in numerous ways and paired with bread, rice vermicelli, rice noodles, or broken rice, making it even more enticing.
5. Bo Ne – Vietnamese Sizzling Beef
Bo Ne originates from the French dish ‘steak au poivre’ but has been adapted to suit Vietnamese tastes. Instead of using whole beef steaks, the meat is sliced thinly and marinated with soy sauce, fish sauce, garlic, onion, and pepper.
Bo Ne – A Twist on the French Steak, Adapted to Vietnamese Palates
The beef is then grilled on a scorching cast-iron pan, causing oil to splatter and create a distinctive sizzling sound. This is how the dish got its name, ‘Bo Ne,’ as diners need to dodge the splattering oil.
Bo Ne is typically served with a variety of accompaniments, including fried eggs, pork liver pate, sausage, bacon, fish cake, and cheese, depending on the creativity of each restaurant. Fresh herbs like lettuce, tomato, and onion help balance the richness of the dish, and crispy French bread or fried potatoes are served on the side, along with a savory sauce. Some eateries even offer additional options like stir-fried noodles or pasta to cater to diverse tastes.
banh mi, a legendary delicacy in District 4’>Crispy, savory, and lip-smackingly delicious cartilage pork banh mi, a legendary delicacy in District 4
Passing through Nguyen Than Hien street, you will be enticed by the tantalizing aroma of grilled meat wafting from Banh Mi Cam Huong, home to the unforgettable Banh Mi Suon Sun Cai Chua.
