10 Must-Try Culinary Delights in Hoi An

Hoi An, a charming town in central Vietnam, is a culinary haven where history, culture, and flavors collide. When visiting this enchanting destination, your taste buds are in for a treat. From street food stalls to sophisticated restaurants, Hoi An offers a plethora of delectable dishes that will leave you craving more. Here are the dishes you must try when exploring the culinary landscape of Hoi An.

1. Cao Lau (Cao Lầu): This iconic dish is a testament to Hoi An’s culinary heritage. Cao Lầu features thick, chewy noodles made from rice soaked in lye water, giving them a distinct texture and flavor. The noodles are topped with tender slices of pork, fresh herbs, crunchy bean sprouts, and crispy croutons. 

Cao Lau

A savory broth is drizzled over the top, making each bite a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Legend has it that the water used to prepare the noodles comes from an ancient Cham well in Hoi An, adding a touch of mystique to this beloved dish.

2. White Rose Dumplings (Bánh bao hoa hồng trắng): Named for their delicate, rose like appearance, these dumplings are a Hoi An specialty. Made from translucent rice paper, the dumplings are filled with a mixture of minced shrimp or pork and spices. They are then steamed to perfection and garnished with crispy fried garlic and shallots.

White Rose Dumplings

The dipping sauce, typically made from fish sauce, lime, sugar, and chili, adds a tangy and slightly spicy kick that perfectly complements the dumplings’ subtle flavors.

3. Banh Mi (Bánh Mì): While Banh Mi is a popular street food across Vietnam, Hoi An takes it to a whole new level. The Hoi An version features a crusty baguette filled with a variety of ingredients such as pâté, cold cuts, grilled meats, pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of spicy sauce. 

Banh Mi Hoi An

The result is a symphony of flavors and textures that make each bite an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss out on trying the legendary Banh Mi Phuong, a local favorite that even celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain raved about.

4. Hoi An Chicken Rice (Cơm Gà Hội An): This fragrant chicken rice dish is a staple in Hoi An’s culinary scene. The rice is cooked in chicken broth with a hint of turmric, giving it a rich yellow hue and a savory flavor. It is then topped with succulent pieces of shredded chicken, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of soy sauce.

Hoi An Chicken Rice

The dish is often served with a side of pickled vegetables and a bowl of chicken broth. Simple yet satisfying, Com Ga Hoi An is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the heart and soul of Hoi An’s cuisine.

5. Quang noodles (Mì Quảng): A quintessential dish from the Quang Nam province, Mi Quang is a vibrant and flavorful noodle dish that reflects the region’s rich culinary traditions. The dish features wide rice noodles served in a shallow broth made from simmered pork, shrimp, and herbs.

Quang noodles 

It is garnished with an array of toppings, including roasted peanuts, fresh herbs, quail eggs, and sesame rice crackers. Each bite of Mi Quang is a delightful explosion of flavors and textures, making it a beloved dish among locals and visitors alike.

6. Hoi An Pancakes (Bánh Xèo): These savory Vietnamese pancakes are a delight to the senses. Made from a batter of rice flour, turmeric, and coconut milk, the pancakes are cooked until crispy and golden brown.

Hoi An Pancakes

They are filled with a mixture of shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and mung beans. To enjoy Banh Xeo the traditional way, wrap a piece of the pancake in a rice paper with fresh herbs and lettuce, then dip it into a savory peanut sauce. The combination of crispy, savory, and fresh flavors is simply irresistible.

7. Grilled Pork Skewers (Nem Nuong): These succulent pork skewers are a popular street food in Hoi An. The pork is marinated in a mixture of spices, garlic, and fish sauce, then grilled to perfection over an open flame. 

Grilled Pork Skewers

The skewers are served with a side of fresh herbs, rice paper, and dipping sauce. To enjoy Nem Nuong, wrap the grilled pork in rice paper with the herbs, then dip it into the tangy and savory sauce. Each bite is a burst of smoky, savory goodness.

8. Stir-Fried Baby Clams (Hến Xào): A lesser-known but equally delicious dish, Hến Xào is a must-try for seafood lovers. Baby clams are stir-fried with lemongrass, garlic, and chili, creating a fragrant and flavorful dish.

Stir-Fried Baby Clams

The clams are served with rice crackers, which add a satisfying crunch. The combination of tender clams and crispy rice crackers is a unique and delightful experience.

9. Che (Chè): No meal in Hoi An is complete without trying Che, a traditional Vietnamese dessert. Che is a sweet soup or pudding made from a variety of ingredients such as beans, fruits, and jellies, often combined with coconut milk and crushed ice. The flavors and textures can vary widely, but each version of Che offers a refreshing and satisfying end to a meal. 

Che

10. Lotus Seed Sweet Soup (Chè Hạt Sen): Another popular dessert in Hoi An, Che Hat Sen is a soothing and sweet lotus seed soup. The lotus seeds are simmered until tender, then combined with a sweet syrup made from rock sugar and pandan leaves. The result is a delicate and aromatic dessert that is perfect for cooling down on a hot day.

Lotus Seed Sweet Soup 

Hoi An’s culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, colors, and aromas that reflect the town’s rich cultural heritage. From savory street food to elegant desserts, the dishes you must try when coming to Hoi An offer a culinary journey that will leave you with lasting memories.

Anvui hopes that the knowledge shared above will be useful to you. Don’t forget to visit Anvui Travel’s YouTube channel to see wonderful travel moments. Customers are looking for a professional, affordable tour operator, don’t hesitate to contact Anvui De Voyage via info@anvuitravel.com or (Hotline): +84 912 683 908!

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