Vietnamese vermicelli noodles: Top 21 local delicacies you must try

Vietnamese vermicelli noodles hold a cherished place in the hearts and palates of food enthusiasts worldwide. These versatile noodles form the foundation of a multitude of mouth-watering dishes that reflect Vietnam’s culinary heritage and regional diversity. From bustling street food stalls to family-owned eateries, Vietnamese noodles shine in an array of local delicacies. Discover the top 21 local delicacies featuring Vietnamese vermicelli noodles here.

1. Vietnamese vermicelli noodles from Northern Vietnam

1.1. Bun cha

Bun cha is an iconic Vietnamese dish that is particularly popular in the Northern region of Vietnam, especially in Hanoi. It consists of three main components: grilled pork patties, Vietnamese vermicelli noodles, and a bowl of sweet and tangy broth.

The grilled pork patties are the star of this dish. They are made by mixing ground pork with various seasonings such as garlic, shallots, fish sauce, and sugar. The mixture is then shaped into small patties and grilled over charcoal, giving them a smoky and flavorful taste.

While bun cha is most commonly associated with Hanoi, variations of the dish can be found in other regions of Vietnam, each with its own unique twist:

• Southern Vietnam: In the south, bun cha is sometimes prepared with a slightly different approach. Instead of grilled pork patties, the pork may be marinated and stir-fried, resulting in a different texture and flavor profile.
• Central Vietnam: In the Central region, bun cha may be served with different accompaniments and condiments. For example, it could be accompanied by various fresh herbs, peanuts, and crispy pork rinds.

Despite the regional variations, the essence of bun cha remains consistent: a delicious combination of grilled meat, noodles, and flavorful broth that delights taste buds across Vietnam and beyond.

1.2. Bun oc

Bun oc is a popular dish that features Vietnamese vermicelli noodles served with snails in a flavorful broth. There are two main bun oc variations:

• Bun oc nong: This variation consists of hot vermicelli noodles served in a steaming, flavorful broth with snails. The broth is typically made from a combination of pork bones, tomatoes, lemongrass, and various spices, creating a savory and aromatic base. The snails are added to the broth and cooked until tender, absorbing the delicious flavors of the broth. 
• Bun oc nguoi: Bun oc nguoi is a refreshing variation where Vietnamese vermicelli noodles are served cold or at room temperature. The snails are boiled, then marinated in a mixture of fish sauce, sugar, garlic, and chili for added flavors. 

1.3. Bun thang

Bun thang is a noodle dish known for its delicate balance of flavors and eye-catching presentation. It incorporates an array of ingredients that make it a delectable treat for the taste buds. There are Vietnamese vermicelli noodles, tenderly cooked chicken, thinly sliced omelets, various toppings, and a dollop of shrimp paste. Altogether, the contrasting textures and tastes create a delightful harmony in each bite!

1.4. Bun moc

Bun moc is a beloved dish in Northern Vietnam that combines the satisfying flavors of pork, noodles, and herbs. This comforting bowl of goodness starts with a clear and flavorful broth made from simmering pork bones for hours. The star of the dish is the pork meatballs, delicately seasoned and firm to the bite. Despite its simplicity, bun moc packs an explosion of flavors that perfectly balances savory and fragrant elements!

1.5. Bun ca ro dong

This fish noodle soup is a culinary masterpiece that perfectly encapsulates the flavors and textures unique to Northern Vietnam. The highlight of this dish is the perfectly cooked and tender fish, which is either fried or simmered before being added to the soup. Served with fresh herbs, lime wedges, and a side of rice vermicelli noodles, each spoonful brings together a harmony of tastes that will leave your taste buds tantalized.

1.6. Bun rieu cua

Bun rieu cua is another delicious noodle soup with a unique flavor profile. The broth, made with crushed crab meat, tomatoes, and various aromatic spices like lemongrass and shrimp paste, has a tangy-sweet taste that is incredibly appetizing. The dish also features soft Vietnamese vermicelli noodles, freshwater crab meatballs, tofu puffs, and fried shallots that provide layers of crunchy goodness. Herbs are generously added as garnish, brightening up the entire bowl both in terms of taste and presentation.

1.7. Bun dau mam tom

Bun dau mam tom consists of Vietnamese vermicelli noodles served with fried tofu, shrimp paste, and an array of fresh herbs and vegetables. The tender noodles provide a gentle base for the crispy tofu, which is perfectly complemented by the pungent shrimp paste. This casual street food may not look glamorous but is packed with unique flavors that will leave you craving for more!

2. Vietnamese vermicelli noodles from Central Vietnam

2.1. Bun bo Hue

Bun bo Hue is a soup with rich broth, tender slices of beef, and chewy rice noodles. What sets it apart is its intense use of lemongrass, shrimp paste, and chili oil, which gives it a unique and tantalizing taste. Whether you are enjoying it in a roadside stall or a cozy eatery, bun bo Hue noodles will transport your taste buds straight to the bustling streets of Hue.

2.2. Bun mam nem

Bun mam nem is a popular dish in Central Vietnam that combines the rich flavors of fermented fish paste with Vietnamese vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and an array of toppings. This dish captures the essence of Vietnamese cuisine with its perfect balance of spicy, savory, and tangy elements. The highlight is undoubtedly mam nem, a delicious concoction made from fermented fish. It adds a unique umami depth to the dish that is hard to replicate elsewhere.

2.3. Bun nghe xao long

This is a flavorful dish that combines the earthy taste of turmeric-spiced rice noodles with the succulent pieces of pork offals, such as intestines, liver, and heart. The former provide a satisfying chewiness, while the latter brings a robust meatiness. Plus, the aromas from turmeric, garlic, and other spices create an enticing fragrance that lingers in both your mouth and memory long after you have finished your meal.

2.4. Bun sua

Made from delicate jellyfish, this dish offers a taste and texture like no other. The jellyfish strands are first blanched to remove any bitterness, then tossed with crisp greens, herbs, and a tangy dressing made from lime juice, fish sauce, and chili garlic. The result is a medley of flavors!

2.5. Bun ca

If you ever find yourself wandering the streets of Central Vietnam, make sure to seek a bowl of Bun ca, a local specialty that will ignite your taste buds. This vibrant and flavorful dish consists of tender fish fillets, traditionally cooked with various aromatic herbs and spices, swimming in a tantalizing broth made from fish bones. Served over a bed of thick rice noodles, this well-rounded dish is accompanied by an assortment of fresh herbs, lime wedges, and chili slices for added zing.

2.6. Bun cha ca

Typically enjoyed as a casual meal, this dish consists of grilled fish cakes served with Vietnamese vermicelli noodles, an assortment of fresh herbs and vegetables, and topped with a flavorful fish sauce. The star of the show is the juicy and succulent fish cakes charred to perfection, imparting a smoky aroma that entices the senses. These delectable bites are paired with soft vermicelli noodles to create an explosion of flavors.

2.7. Bun ram

Bun ram is another beloved noodle soup from Central Vietnam, featuring thin and translucent rice vermicelli noodles immersed in a flavorful broth. The broth’s rich and savory taste is complemented by fiddler crabs, creating a hearty and satisfying dish. To enhance the experience, fresh herbs and vegetables are generously added, providing a refreshing contrast to the warm and comforting soup. 

2.8. Bun tom

Bun tom is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike. This delightful combination of Vietnamese vermicelli noodles, succulent grilled shrimp, herbs, and vegetables creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. Whether enjoyed at a street food stall or in a restaurant, bun tom offers a delicious experience that captures the essence of Vietnamese cuisine in every mouthful.

3. Vietnamese vermicelli noodles from Southern Vietnam

3.1. Bun bo nam bo

Bun bo nam bo, also called Vietnamese stir-fry beef with vermicelli noodles, consists of stir-fried marinated beef, fresh herbs, and an assortment of colorful vegetables assembled beautifully on a plate. The tender and succulent beef is perfectly complemented by the aromatic blend of spices, creating a harmonious balance of tastes.

3.2. Bun ca ri

Bun ca ri is an aromatic dish that combines fresh Vietnamese vermicelli noodles, succulent chicken, and a rich curry sauce that has hints of lemongrass and turmeric. This combination of flavors creates a balance between savory notes from the curry sauce and a subtle sweetness from the chicken. What sets this dish apart is not only its complex taste profile but also its versatility. It can be enjoyed as a hearty meal on its own or served as a dipping broth alongside other dishes.

3.3. Bun bo cay

This flavorful soup is a delightful mixture of tender beef slices, savory broth, and an abundance of fresh herbs and vegetables. Its key ingredient is spicy chili oil, which gives a distinct kick. Typically served with Vietnamese vermicelli noodles, bean sprouts, and lime wedges, bun bo cay offers a perfect symphony of textures and flavors. From the fiery heat of the chili oil to the fragrance of the herbs that infuse each spoonful, every bite brings a burst of culinary delight.

3.4. Bun bi

This dish typically consists of rice vermicelli noodles topped with thinly sliced pork rinds, marinated grilled pork, and a generous handful of fresh herbs. The dish is then given an extra kick with crushed peanuts, pickled carrots, and daikon radish. Together, these ingredients create a deliciously balanced combination that showcases the beauty of Vietnamese cuisine.

3.5. Bun mam

This dish features Vietnamese vermicelli noodles served in a distinctively savory broth made from fermented fish sauce. Topped with fresh herbs, sliced shallots, and chili, bun mam offers a complex interplay of textures and tastes that will keep you coming back for more.

3.6. Bun ken

Ken noodles is a popular dish in South Vietnam that offers a delicious and satisfying culinary experience. It showcases the region’s vibrant food culture with its combination of fresh herbs, savory broth, and tender noodles. The flavorful broth is the heart of this dish, made from simmering pork bones with aromatic spices like star anise and cinnamon to create a rich and aromatic base. It is then served piping hot along with various condiments like lime wedges, chili sauce, and fish sauce. 

Now, how to explore these mouth-watering Vietnamese vermicelli noodles? Embark on Vietnam travel! You can visit Hanoi, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, and Hoi An to immerse yourself in the diverse flavors of Vietnamese vermicelli noodles.

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Vietnamese vermicelli noodles are a treasure trove of culinary wonders. So, let their allure entice you on a delightful journey of flavors. These local delicacies can be your guide, leading you through the vibrant streets and charming corners of Vietnam, where every bite tells a story of its own.

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