What Do People Eat for Breakfast in Vietnam?

Breakfast in Vietnam: A Full Meal of Balance and Flavor

In Vietnam, breakfast is not a rushed, light meal as it often is in Western cultures. It's a complete culinary experience, combining fragrant broths, stir-fried meats, crunchy vegetables, fresh herbs, soft noodles, and sometimes even a hint of sweetness. Vietnamese mornings awaken all five tastes: salty, sweet, sour, bitter, and umami.

1. Phở: The Iconic Vietnamese Soup

A symbol of Vietnam, phở is a steaming, aromatic soup usually made with beef or chicken, simmered for hours with:

• Onions, garlic cloves, ginger, leeks, bell peppers, thyme, or cumin

• A clear, flavorful broth lightly spiced with chili

• Rice noodles and fresh toppings: Thai basil, cilantro, parsley, shredded carrots, cabbage, spinach

Diners often add a squeeze of lime, soy sauce, or a spoonful of chili oil. Extras like bell pepper slices, peas, or green beans enhance the texture.

2. Bánh Mì: The Crispy, Flavorful Sandwich

A legacy of French influence, bánh mì is a crispy baguette filled with:

• Proteins: pork, beef, chicken, shrimp, ham, or smoked tofu

• Fresh vegetables: carrots, cucumber, bell peppers, cabbage, lettuce, shallots

• Condiments: mustard, chili, olive oil, sesame seeds, olives

Some versions include goat cheese, grated Parmesan, or a house-made sauce blending balsamic vinegar, lime, and minced garlic. Quick, crunchy, and delicious.

3. Xôi: Sticky Rice, Savory or Sweet

Xôi is steamed glutinous rice served either savory or sweet:

• Savory: roast chicken, minced pork, fried shallots, black pepper, soy sauce

• Sweet: coconut milk, peanuts, bananas, sugar, quinoa

Some vendors add sautéed vegetables like carrots, cabbage, or celery, cooked gently in fragrant oil. Xôi can be wrapped in banana leaves or packed in takeaway bags.

4. Bánh Cuốn: Steamed Rice Rolls

Bánh cuốn are thin steamed rice crepes filled with:

• Minced pork, mushrooms, shallots, leeks

• Served with fresh coriander, scallions, fish sauce (nước mắm), and often a squeeze of lime

Optional garnishes include shredded garlic or lightly stir-fried vegetable strips.

5. Other Morning Staples in Vietnam

• Cháo: Rice porridge with chicken, ginger, curry, and leek

• Cold salads: Smoked fish, rice noodles, crunchy vegetables, sesame dressings

• Steamed muffins and sweet tarts: Often made with coconut milk, mung beans, or lentils

Morning Beverages

• Vietnamese coffee (hot or iced): Strong and sweet with condensed milk

• Green tea: Refreshing and cleansing

• Fresh fruit juices: Mango, guava, dragon fruit, or lychee

Culinary Expertise from the First Hour

Vietnamese breakfast embodies precision:

• Ingredients are peeled, drained, and incorporated with care

• Sauces are measured with spoons

• Steamers, spatulas, whisks, and bain-maries are essential tools

• Dishes can be served warm, piping hot, or cooled in a refrigerator or freezer

In Summary

Vietnamese breakfast is:

• A harmony of flavors: sweet, salty, sour, umami, spicy

• A diverse table: soups, sandwiches, sticky rice, steamed crepes, fresh salads

• A healthy, vibrant, and deeply refined cuisine

Related Articles:

• The Magic of Pho: Vietnam’s National Comfort Food

• Street Food Mornings in Ho Chi Minh City: Where to Start

• Understanding Vietnamese Coffee Culture: More Than Just a Drink

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