Vietnamese dumplings: 7 delightful varieties to put on your must-try list

Contents

Vietnamese dumplings will surely tantalize your taste buds (Source: Collected)

Vietnam is renowned for its flavorful cuisine, where each dish tells a captivating story and every bite is a delightful culinary journey. Among the many famous Vietnamese foods, dumplings hold a special place. These Vietnamese dumplings are not just ordinary morsels of dough; they are meticulously crafted bites infused with tradition and culture. 

1. An overview of the features of Vietnamese dumplings

Vietnamese dumplings come in various shapes and sizes, but they share a common feature: they are made with an outer layer of dough and filled with various ingredients. The dumpling wrappers can be made from wheat flour, rice flour, potato flour, or other types of flour. The fillings inside the dumplings are also diverse, including mung beans, wood ear mushrooms, meat, seafood, vegetables, or a combination of these. 

Dumplings can be steamed, boiled, fried, or baked, depending on regional cooking styles. They can be enjoyed as a main dish, a snack, or even as a dessert. 

With variations in fillings, wrappers, and cooking methods, enjoying different types of Vietnamese dumplings goes beyond savoring a meal – it is an opportunity to delve deeper into the cultural and culinary traditions of the country. From humble street vendors to upscale restaurants, you can easily find a place to save these detectable treats of Vietnam.

Vietnamese dumplings feature a perfect balance of flavors, often marrying savory and sweet elements (Source: Collected)

>>> Discover the top 22 Vietnamese rice cakes to add to your bucket list!

2. Top 7 most popular Vietnamese dumplings to try once

2.1. Steamed/ Boiled Vietnamese dumplings

2.1.1. Vietnamese tapioca dumplings (banh bot loc)

Vietnamese tapioca dumplings, known as “banh bot loc,” are a delightful treat with a translucent and chewy texture. These Vietnamese dumplings are made from tapioca starch and filled with a savory mixture, typically consisting of shrimp and pork belly. The filling is seasoned with ingredients like shallots, garlic, and fish sauce, creating a flavorful combination. 

“Banh bot loc” is traditionally wrapped in banana leaves before being steamed, which imparts a subtle aroma. Served with the typical Vietnamese dumpling dipping sauce made from fish sauce, chili, and lime, these dumplings offer a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave you craving more.

Banh bot loc is one of the most adored Vietnamese rice dumplings (Source: Collected)

2.1.2. Vietnamese white rose dumplings (banh vac)

Vietnamese white rose dumplings, or “banh vac,” are delicate dumplings that originate from Hoi An street foods. These Vietnamese dumplings are crafted by wrapping a translucent rice flour dough around a filling of minced shrimp, pork, mushrooms, and fragrant spices. 

The dumplings are then meticulously pleated to form a rose-like shape, hence the name “white rose.” After being steamed, they are served with crispy fried shallots and a dipping sauce made from fish sauce, sugar, and lime. With their exquisite appearance and harmonious flavors, “banh vac” is a must-try delicacy that portrays the culinary artistry of Vietnamese cuisine.

2.1.3. Vietnamese sticky rice dumplings (banh it tran)

Vietnamese sticky rice dumplings, also known as “banh it tran,” are a visually appealing delicacy. The dough is made from rice flour, salt, and water, while the filling typically consists of a flavorful mixture of mung beans, pork or shrimp, onions, salt, and pepper. 

These dumplings are steamed to perfection, resulting in a soft and chewy texture. The combination of the soft dough with the savory filling, which includes the rich and creamy mung beans, creates a delightful taste experience. This type of Vietnamese dumpling is commonly served with a dipping sauce made from fish sauce and accompanied by pickled carrots and white onions, adding a refreshing element to the dish.

Banh it tran is a popular type of Vietnamese steamed dumpling due to its chewy texture and delightful fillings (Source: Collected)

2.1.4. Vietnamese steamed pork dumplings (banh bao)

Vietnamese steamed pork dumplings, or “banh bao,” are a beloved classic in Vietnamese cuisine. These fluffy dumplings feature a soft and slightly sweet dough made from wheat flour and filled with a flavorful mixture of ground pork, boiled eggs, mushrooms, onions, and various seasonings. 

Once steamed, “banh bao” becomes irresistibly tender and aromatic. These Vietnamese pork dumplings are commonly enjoyed as a breakfast or snack item, and their satisfying combination of savory flavors and pillowy texture makes them a popular choice among dumpling enthusiasts.

2.1.5. Vietnamese floating dumplings (banh troi)

Vietnamese floating dumplings, or “banh troi,” are ethereal dumplings that are typically enjoyed during special occasions and festivals, such as the Han Thuc festival (Cold Food festival). These Vietnamese dumplings are made from glutinous rice flour and filled with sweet mung bean paste. The round dumplings are then boiled until they float to the surface, giving them their distinctive name. 

“Banh troi” is served in a fragrant ginger syrup, which adds a subtle warmth and sweetness to complement the soft and chewy texture of the dumplings. With their delightful appearance and delightful taste, “banh troi” is a delightful treat that captures the essence of Vietnamese dessert cuisine.

Banh troi is one of the most popular Vietnamese rice dumplings enjoyed during the Han Thuc festival (Source: Collected)

>>> Check out 15 tantalizing Vietnamese street foods that should not be missed out on during your culinary exploration!

2.2. Fried Vietnamese dumplings

2.2.1. Vietnamese samosa dumplings (banh goi)

Vietnamese samosa dumplings, also known as “banh goi,” are savory Vietnamese fried dumplings that are popular street food in Vietnam. These Vietnamese dumplings are made from a wheat flour dough that is filled with a mixture of seasoned ground pork, vermicelli noodles, mushrooms, onions, and sometimes quail eggs. 

The dumplings are then folded into a triangular shape and deep-fried until golden and crispy. The result is a delightful combination of textures, with a crunchy exterior and a flavorful filling. Like many other Vietnamese cakes, “banh goi” is often served with dipping sauces, such as sweet chili sauce or fish sauce, for an extra burst of flavor.

2.2.2. Vietnamese dumplings with mung bean filling (banh cam)

Vietnamese dumplings with mung bean filling, or “banh cam,” are a popular fried dessert enjoyed in Vietnam. These dumplings feature a crispy outer layer made from glutinous rice flour, coated with sesame seeds, and filled with a sweet mung bean paste. The dumplings are deep-fried to achieve a golden and crunchy texture, while the mung bean filling becomes soft and luscious. 

“Banh cam” is often served warm, allowing the contrast between the crispy shell and the smooth, sweet filling to create a delightful sensory experience. It is a beloved treat that satisfies cravings for both crunchiness and sweetness.

“Banh cam” offers a delightful fusion of textures and tastes in the world of Vietnamese dumplings (Source: Collected)

>>> Explore the top 20 Vietnamese food souvenirs to bring home!

In addition to Vietnamese dumplings, Vietnam offers a culinary paradise for food enthusiasts, with a series of mouth-watering dishes awaiting your exploration. Hanoi is renowned for the world-famous pho, while Hoi An tempts visitors with flavorful cao lau. Nha Trang boasts tantalizing seafood, and Phu Quoc serves succulent grilled oysters. Each destination in this S-shaped country boasts unique cuisine and landscapes, making every visit truly worthwhile.

To elevate your Vietnam travel experience, be sure to visit VinWonders – a chain of recreational centers scattered throughout Vietnam. VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park, VinWonders Nam Hoi An, VinWonders Nha Trang, and VinWonders Phu Quoc offer a wide array of thrilling rides, captivating shows, and interactive activities suitable for visitors of all ages. Additionally, VinKE & Vinpearl Aquarium provide educational and fascinating experiences, especially suitable for those traveling with children.

While exploring these destinations, consider staying at the luxurious hotels and resorts of Vinpearl. Here, you can indulge in opulent rooms equipped with amenities such as swimming pools, play areas for kids, bars, gyms, and various dining options, catering to your every need.

Have unforgettable moments at the entertainment paradise of VinWonders

Enjoy a comfortable stay at the hotels and resorts of Vinpearl

>>> Book tickets of VinWonders Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Nam Hoi An, VinKE & Vinpearl Aquarium and VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park to fill your trip with loads of fun!

Vietnamese dumplings offer a delightful array of flavors and culinary experiences. Whether you prefer the soft textures of sticky rice dumplings or the crispy indulgence of fried varieties, there is a Vietnamese dumpling to suit your palate. So, on your upcoming trip to Vietnam, don’t miss out on these delicacies to immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary landscape of Vietnam!