Vietnam is famous for its mouth-watering cuisine, and among the most popular dishes is the beloved noodle soup, Phở. While Phở is undoubtedly delicious, it’s only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Vietnamese soups. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey beyond Phở and introduce you to five must-try Vietnamese soups that will surprise you.
Bún Riêu – The Crab Noodle Soup
Bún Riêu is a soup that features fresh crab meat, tomatoes, and vermicelli noodles in a flavorful broth. This soup is perfect for seafood lovers, as it has a unique crab taste that’s both sweet and savory. A fun fact about this soup is that it’s rumored to be a favorite of former U.S. President Barack Obama, who lived in Indonesia as a child and developed a love for Southeast Asian cuisine.
Crab is a great source of protein, and the tomatoes in the soup are high in antioxidants, making it an excellent choice for a healthy meal.
Canh Chua – The Sour Fish Soup
Canh Chua is a sour fish soup that’s typically made with catfish, tamarind, pineapple, and vegetables. The sourness of the soup comes from the tamarind, which is balanced with the sweetness of the pineapple. This soup is perfect for those who like a tangy, citrusy taste.
Tamarind is known to have anti-inflammatory properties, while the fish in the soup is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health.
Bún Mắm – The Fermented Fish Soup
Bún Mắm is a soup that’s not for the faint of heart. It’s made with fermented fish and shrimp paste, which gives it a pungent smell and taste. The soup also features pork, eggplant, and vermicelli noodles. While the fermented fish and shrimp paste may sound intimidating, this soup is a staple in Southern Vietnam.
Believe it or not, Bún Mắm has numerous health benefits. The fermented fish and shrimp paste contain probiotics, which are great for gut health. Additionally, eggplant is high in fiber and antioxidants, making it a great vegetable to add to your diet.
Bún Bò Huế – The Spicy Beef Noodle Soup
Bún Bò Huế is a spicy beef noodle soup that originated in Hue, the imperial capital of Vietnam. The soup features beef shank, lemongrass, and chili oil, giving it a spicy kick. It’s typically served with thick rice noodles, which make it a hearty and filling meal.
Spicy foods like Bun Bo Hue have been shown to have health benefits such as boosting metabolism and reducing inflammation. Additionally, lemongrass has anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties, making it a great addition to this soup.
Mì Quảng – The Turmeric Noodle Soup
Mì Quảng is a noodle soup that’s made with turmeric noodles, pork or shrimp, and vegetables. The soup is typically topped with peanuts and served with rice crackers. The turmeric noodles give this soup a bright yellow color and a unique flavor.
Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Additionally, the shrimp and pork in the soup are a great source of protein, making this soup a well-rounded meal.
Conclusion
Vietnam has a rich culinary tradition that goes far beyond just Pho. These five soups are just a small taste of the many unique and delicious dishes that the country has to offer. So, if you’re feeling adventurous and want to explore the world of Vietnamese cuisine, be sure to give these must-try soups a chance. Who knows, you might just discover a new favorite dish!
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