As the sun rises over the bustling streets, Vietnam's cuisine comes alive with an irresistible array of flavors and cultural traditions. During your Vietnam travel journey, don’t miss out on the opportunity to embrace the energy and flavors of the morning by enjoying breakfast in Vietnam, igniting your appetite for an unforgettable start to the day.
1. What is a typical Vietnamese breakfast?
Vietnamese breakfast culture is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, traditions, and communal dining experiences. It holds a distinct place in the country's culinary heritage and offers a unique glimpse into Vietnamese daily life.
Breakfast in Vietnam is often seen as an important meal, providing nourishment and energy to kickstart the day. A signature feature of breakfast in Vietnam is the emphasis on freshness and balance.
When comparing Vietnamese breakfast culture with that of other countries, there are some notable differences. For example, in Western countries like the United States, breakfast often consists of cereals, toast, eggs, and bacon. It is typically a lighter meal and is often eaten quickly before heading off to work or school. In contrast, breakfast in Vietnam tends to be more elaborate and feature a wider range of flavors and ingredients.
2. What do Vietnamese eat for breakfast? TOP 12 typical dishes
Vietnamese breakfast culture offers a delightful journey into the heart and soul of the nation's culinary traditions. The diversity of Vietnamese food, from savory to sweet, and the emphasis on fresh ingredients create a breakfast experience that is truly unforgettable. Let's delve into the top 12 dishes for breakfast in Vietnam that will ignite your culinary curiosity and leave you craving for more.
2.1. Pho - The best breakfast in Vietnam
Pho stands as the undisputed star of the morning table. A steaming bowl of Pho is a delightful medley of flavors and textures, featuring silky rice noodles immersed in a fragrant, aromatic broth, accompanied by tender slices of beef or succulent chicken. The garnishes of fresh herbs, lime, and bean sprouts add a refreshing touch, while the optional chili and hoisin sauce provides a customizable kick.
2.2. Bun (Rice vermicelli noodles)
As you explore the diversity of breakfast in Vietnam, be sure to indulge in the enchanting world of Bun - a range of noodle dishes that will take your taste buds on a captivating journey. From Mi Quang, Bun bo Hue, Bun cha, to Bun dau mam tom, these tantalizing dishes offer a glimpse into the wonders of Vietnamese cuisine, inviting you to immerse yourself in the aromatic world of noodles, broth, and flavors that make Vietnam a true haven for food lovers.
>>> Let’s discover several exquisite Vietnamese noodles dishes!
2.3. Banh mi - A typical breakfast food in Vietnam
Vietnamese bread seamlessly blends French and Vietnamese influences into a mouth-watering creation. From savory slices of grilled pork or tender chicken, the tangy crunch of pickled carrots and daikon to the fragrant freshness of cilantro and sliced cucumbers, each bite offers a harmonious balance of flavors. The secret lies in the harmonious mix of ingredients, creating a delightful interplay of sweet, savory, and zesty notes.
2.4. Com tam (Vietnamese broken rice)
Vietnamese broken rice originated from the ingenious use of broken rice grains, which were once considered less desirable but have now become the star ingredient of this flavorful creation. A plate of Com tam often includes fragrant and tender grains of broken rice, succulent grilled pork chops, grilled shrimp, or juicy slices of grilled chicken.
2.5. Coffee - An ideal drink for a perfect breakfast in Vietnam
Vietnamese coffee is characterized by its rich, full-bodied flavor, often brewed using a traditional filter that slowly drips hot water through the coffee grounds, resulting in a robust and concentrated brew. Served with a dollop of sweetened condensed milk, this creamy indulgence adds a delightful sweet and velvety texture to each sip.
2.6. Xoi - A cheap breakfast food in Vietnam
Xoi is a humble and wallet-friendly dish that consists of glutinous rice cooked to perfection, resulting in a sticky and slightly chewy texture that is uniquely delightful. What makes Xoi truly special is the variety of toppings and flavors that accompany it. From the simple mung bean paste and fried shallots to more extravagant options like shredded chicken and Vietnamese sausage, the possibilities are endless.
>>> Read more: Vietnamese National Dish: 12 Must-Tries To Never Miss Out On
2.7. Banh cuon
The light and savory nature of Vietnamese steamed rice roll makes it a perfect choice to kickstart your day. Banh cuon is typically filled with a mixture of seasoned ground pork, minced mushrooms, and aromatic herbs, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. To complete the ensemble, it is served with a side of fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and fish sauce, adding a tangy and refreshing touch to every bite.
2.8. Hu tieu
Hu tieu features translucent rice noodles swimming in a fragrant broth, which can be customized with various proteins such as succulent shrimp, tender pork, or a combination of both. The toppings are plentiful and diverse, ranging from fresh herbs, crispy bean sprouts, fragrant fried shallots to a splash of lime juice that adds a refreshing zing.
2.9. Vietnamese cakes - Popular Vietnamese breakfast foods
Tourists should not miss out on the opportunity to indulge in a delightful assortment of Vietnamese breakfast cakes, including Banh khuc, Banh gio, Banh nep, and Banh te. These popular treats offer a diverse range of flavors and textures, each presenting a unique culinary experience.
Banh khuc features savory rice cakes with mung bean paste, pork, and fragrant spices. Banh gio delights with pyramid-shaped rice dumplings filled with savory ground pork. Banh nep entices with sweet and savory sticky rice dumplings, while Banh te charms with its cylindrical shape and a delicious filling of seasoned ground pork and mung bean paste.
2.10. Must-try dish for breakfast in Vietnam - Bo kho
Bo kho, a hearty and flavorful beef stew, offers a warm and satisfying start to your day. This aromatic dish features tender chunks of beef simmered in a rich, savory broth infused with fragrant spices such as star anise, lemongrass, and ginger. The stew is often served with a side of crusty bread or rice noodles, allowing you to soak up every bit of the delicious flavors.
>>> Don’t forget to explore Sai Gon cuisine during your holiday in Vietnam!
2.11. Trung vit lon - A unique Vietnamese breakfast food
Trung vit lon, also known as balut, is a strange delicacy to some, but an integral part of Vietnamese culinary culture. This intriguing dish consists of fertilized duck eggs that are boiled and then consumed, including the partially developed embryo inside. The texture is a combination of creamy yolk and tender meat, resulting in an unforgettably unique culinary experience.
2.12. Chao (Vietnamese porridge)
Known for its comforting simplicity, Chao is a versatile dish made by simmering rice grains in a flavorful broth until they soften and create a smooth, creamy texture. The beauty of Chao lies in its customization of various ingredients and flavors. Whether you prefer it plain or with added toppings such as shredded chicken, ground pork, fish, or seafood, Chao offers a gentle canvas for a myriad of flavors to shine.
3. Average breakfast cost in Vietnam
The cost of breakfast in Vietnam can vary, depending on the dining establishment and location. For budget-conscious travelers, street food stalls and local eateries offer delicious and filling breakfasts at incredibly affordable prices. A typical street food breakfast, such as a bowl of Pho or a Banh mi sandwich, can cost anywhere between 20,000 to 40,000 Vietnamese Dong (equivalent to approximately $0.80 - $1.70). They provide a great start to the day without straining your wallet.
If you prefer a more upscale dining experience, hotels, cafes, and restaurants in tourist areas may offer breakfast buffets or à la carte options. Prices for these establishments can range from 100,000 to 200,000 Vietnamese Dong (around $4 - $8) or more per person. These venues often provide a wider selection of dishes, including both Vietnamese and international breakfast choices, ensuring a diverse culinary experience.
If you are planning for your holiday in Vietnam, it is recommended that you visit some touristy destinations such as Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Hoi An, Da Nang, and Ha Long. These enchanting destinations not only offer stunning natural beauty but also provide a captivating blend of diverse cultures and exquisite cuisines.
In these cities, it is highly suggested that you stay at the hotels and resorts of Vinpearl. At Vinpearl, you will be greeted by a warm and inviting ambiance, where attention to detail and guest satisfaction is paramount. Lavishly appointed rooms and suites provide a haven of comfort and elegance, ensuring a restful stay for you.
>>> Book rooms in Vinpearl Phu Quoc, Vinpearl Nha Trang, Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An, Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long to enjoy world-class amenities and services!
Breakfast in Vietnam is a delightful culinary experience that showcases the richness and vibrancy of Vietnamese cuisine. Whether you choose to savor street food delights at a bustling market or indulge in breakfast at a charming local eatery, you will be treated to an explosion of flavors, aromas, and textures that will awaken your senses. The balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, combined with the meticulous preparation and presentation, make Vietnamese breakfast a true culinary adventure.
>>> Book voucher, combo, tour to Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Hoi An, Da Nang to grab the best deals for your trip!
