Among the myriad of tantalizing dishes, Vietnamese cabbage salad stands out as a refreshing and flavorsome delight that must not be missed during your Vietnam travel adventure. This dish captures the heart and soul of Vietnam, showcasing the harmonious blend of sweet, sour, and savory elements that leave a lasting impression on every palate.
1. Ingredients and flavors of Vietnamese cabbage salad

The allure of Vietnamese cabbage salad lies in its remarkable combination of fresh ingredients and captivating flavors.
Crisp and vibrant cabbage takes center stage, providing a delightful crunch that serves as the foundation of this dish. The ensemble of ingredients harmonizes with shredded carrots, adding a touch of sweetness and appeal, while fragrant herbs like cilantro, mint, and Thai basil infuse the salad with freshness.
The dressing combines the tang of fish sauce with the brightness of lime juice, creating a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory notes. A subtle heat from chili peppers adds a gentle kick, while crushed peanuts deliver a satisfying texture.
With every bite, the flavors intertwine, creating a dance of sensations that is both invigorating and comforting. The ingredients and flavors of this cabbage salad come together in perfect harmony, offering a delectable and refreshing culinary experience that embodies the essence of Vietnamese cuisine.
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2. Top 7 most popular types of Vietnamese cabbage salad
Vietnamese food boasts a rich variety of cabbage salads, each offering a unique blend of flavors and textures. Here are the top 7 most popular types of Vietnamese cabbage salad that are sure to tantalize your taste buds:
2.1. Vietnamese cabbage salad with chicken
Made with poached or grilled chicken, this cabbage salad offers a protein-packed option. The tender chicken is combined with shredded cabbage, herbs, and a zesty dressing, resulting in a light yet satisfying flavor profile. Whether served as a light lunch or a satisfying dinner, Vietnamese cabbage salad with chicken offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes that will leave you craving for more.

2.2. Vietnamese cabbage salad with beef
This hearty cabbage salad showcases tender slices of beef along with shredded cabbage, herbs, and carrots. The dressing, infused with lemongrass, chili, and fish sauce, lends a savory and aromatic touch to the dish. Whether marinated and grilled or thinly sliced and seared, the beef adds a savory depth that elevates the salad to a satisfying and indulgent experience.

2.3. Vietnamese prawn salad cabbage with meat
This vibrant salad combines succulent shrimp, tender pork, and shredded cabbage, creating a harmonious blend of seafood and meat. The dressing, featuring fish sauce, lime juice, and garlic, imparts a zingy and savory note. The marriage of the seafood and meat with the crisp cabbage creates a delightful medley of textures. Fragrant herbs and a zesty dressing add an extra layer of freshness and tang, perfectly complementing the prawns and meat.
2.4. Vietnamese cabbage salad with boiled pig’s ear
This cabbage salad takes on a unique twist with the addition of boiled pig’s ear. The tender and gelatinous texture of the pig’s ear provides a delightful contrast to the crunchiness of the salad, while the tangy dressing ties all the flavors together. This variation offers a tantalizing combination of tastes and textures that is sure to pique the interest of adventurous food enthusiasts.

2.5. Vietnamese cabbage salad with duck
Elevate your Vietnamese cabbage salad experience with the indulgent addition of succulent duck. This variation takes the salad to new heights, as tender pieces of roasted or grilled duck mingle with the crisp cabbage and vibrant vegetables. The richness and depth of flavor from the duck perfectly complement the fresh and zesty elements of the salad. Vietnamese cabbage salad with duck is a gourmet twist on the beloved classic, offering a luxurious and unforgettable dining experience.
2.6. Vietnamese cabbage salad with squid
This rendition of the salad introduces a delightful oceanic element, as the squid's delicate flavor and tender texture mingle with the crisp cabbage and vibrant vegetables. Whether grilled, stir-fried, or lightly cooked, the squid brings a subtle sweetness to the dish, perfectly complementing the tangy dressing and refreshing herbs. This cabbage salad with squid is a tantalizing option for seafood enthusiasts, offering a refreshing and savory salad experience that embodies the essence of Vietnamese culinary excellence.
2.7. Vegetarian Vietnamese cabbage salad
This vegetarian version celebrates the essence of fresh produce and herbaceous delights. Crisp cabbage and an array of colorful vegetables, such as shredded carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers, form the base of this refreshing salad. Fragrant herbs like cilantro, mint, and Thai basil lend their distinct aromas. Meanwhile, the dressing, a symphony of tangy lime juice, soy sauce, and sesame oil, adds a delightful savory note.
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You can easily find these cabbage salad dishes at many destinations in Vietnam. Furthermore, don't forget to explore Vietnam's rich culinary scene through other dishes such as mi Quang, bun dau mam tom, Vietnamese bread, spring rolls, broken rice, pancake, steamed rice rolls, Pho rolls, green sticky rice, etc.
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Furthermore, a thoughtful Vietnam travel guide from the locals will help make your trip to this land easier.

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Vietnamese cabbage salad is truly a culinary gem that encapsulates the essence of Vietnamese cuisine. Its fresh and vibrant flavors, coupled with the delicate balance of sweet, sour, and savory notes, make it a delightful delight to be experienced. Whether you are exploring the bustling streets of Vietnam or simply seeking a refreshing and nutritious dish to tantalize your taste buds, this salad is a must-try.
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