5 Mouth-Watering Hot Snacks to Warm You Up This Winter

22 January, 2025

1. Boiled Snails

A classic Vietnamese dish, boiled snails are a delicacy that is simple to make and utterly addictive, especially during the colder months. The aroma of snails boiling in a broth infused with lemon and lemongrass is enough to make your mouth water.

The tender, slightly fatty snail meat is best enjoyed by dipping it in a specially prepared dipping sauce. It’s the perfect snack to enjoy with friends, as you can slowly savor each bite while engaging in lively conversations.

Price Range: 20,000 – 50,000 VND

Suggested Locations: Around Hanoi University of Science and Technology, Chua Lang, Dinh Ngang, and Ton That Tung streets.

2. Porridge

On a chilly Hanoi day, nothing beats a warm bowl of porridge. Whether it’s congee with clam meat or a bowl of thick, gelatinous pork bone broth with cartilage and pork belly, these dishes are sure to warm you up from the inside out.

The best way to enjoy porridge is to pair it with deep-fried dough sticks (“quẩy”), fresh herbs like cilantro, and a generous dash of pepper and chili powder.

Price Range: Around 20,000 VND

Suggested Locations: Around Hanoi University of Science and Technology, Ngo Huyen, Ngo Quynh, and Xa Dan streets.

3. Grilled Meat Skewers

Grilled meat skewers are a popular street food among the youth in Hanoi, offering a delicious combination of lean meat and fat grilled to perfection and seasoned with just the right amount of spices. These skewers are not only affordable but also visually appealing.

Enhance your skewers with accompaniments such as cucumber, cheese, and bread for a more satisfying snack.

Price Range: Around 20,000 VND

Suggested Locations: Ham Long, Kham Thien, Quang Trung streets, Nghia Tan Market, and Tran Vu Temple.

4. Grilled Corn and Sweet Potatoes

Grilled corn and sweet potatoes are ubiquitous street foods in Hanoi, as they are easy to prepare and loved by people of all ages. The key to perfect grilled corn is choosing corn that is neither too young nor too old, grilling it over hot coals, and serving it with a generous sprinkle of scallion oil.

On the other hand, grilled sweet potatoes may not look appealing on the outside, but their soft, warm, and fragrant flesh is a treat for the senses.

Price Range: 10,000 – 15,000 VND

Suggested Locations: Street vendors throughout Hanoi.

5. Hot Bánh Đúc

Hot bánh đúc is a delicious twist on the traditional Vietnamese dish. Instead of serving it cold with dipping sauce, this version is served hot, resulting in a chewy and unique texture. Accompany your bánh đúc with a sweet and sour dipping sauce, chopped herbs, fried shallots, and a savory mixture of minced meat, wood ear mushrooms, and spices.

Add a sprinkle of pepper and chili powder to warm your belly on colder days.