Hoi An is a city located in the Quang Nam province of Vietnam. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, known for its beautiful architecture, traditional culture, and unique cuisine. Many visitors come to Hoi An to sample the local delicacies, and there is no shortage of tasty dishes to try. Here are some of the best must-try foods in Hoi An that you won’t want to miss out on.
1. Cao Lau
Cao Lau is a signature dish of Hoi An and is often considered the city’s unofficial culinary mascot. It is made by combining thin round noodles with a mix of pork, vegetables, and herbs, all served with a side of crispy fried croutons. Although the exact origin of Cao Lau is unknown, it is believed that it was created by Chinese merchants who settled in Hoi An centuries ago. The dish has since become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
2. Banh Mi
Banh Mi is a type of Vietnamese sandwich that has become increasingly popular in recent years. It is made with a combination of meat (often pork or chicken) and vegetables, all placed inside a freshly-baked baguette. Banh Mi is a great snack to grab on the go, and there are plenty of vendors in Hoi An where you can find this tasty treat. There are many different banh mi shops in Hoi An, but some of the most popular ones include Madam Khanh, Banh Mi Phuong, and Banh Mi Que Huong.
3. White Rose
White Rose is a type of dumpling that is a specialty in Hoi An. These dumplings are made with a mix of pork and shrimp, which are then wrapped in a thin and translucent pastry. They are usually served with a side of sauce, a sweet and sour dipping sauce. White Rose is a popular snack among locals and a must-try for visitors.
4. Com Ga
Com Ga is a type of chicken and rice dish that is popular in Hoi An. The chicken is usually cooked with spices and herbs, then served over a bed of steamed white rice. This dish is often served with a side of pickled vegetables and a fish-based dipping sauce. Com Ga is a hearty and delicious meal, perfect for lunch or dinner.
5. Banh Xeo
Banh Xeo is a type of Vietnamese crepe that is popular throughout the country. It is made with a mix of pork, shrimp, and vegetables, all wrapped in a thin and crispy crepe. It’s usually served with a dipping sauce made with fish sauce, lime juice, and chili peppers. Some of the best places to get banh xeo in Hoi An include Banh Xeo Ba Le, Banh Xeo Thanh My, and Banh Xeo An Binh.
6. Mi Quang (noodle soup)
This is a hearty noodle soup from Quang Nam province, where Hoi An is located. The noodles are made with turmeric, which gives them a yellow color. Mi quang is usually topped with pork, shrimp, and eggs. Some of the best places to get mi quang in Hoi An include Ong Hai, Ba Le, and Quan An Hai Ba.
7. Bánh vạc
Bánh vạc is a traditional Vietnamese dumpling that is believed to have originated in the city of Hoi An in central Vietnam. It is made with a thin, crepe-like wrapper made from rice flour and water, and is filled with a mixture of shrimp, pork, and green onions. The dumplings are then boiled or steamed until they are cooked through.
Bánh vạc is typically served with a dipping sauce made from fish sauce, lime juice, and chili peppers. It can also be served with a side of shredded lettuce and herbs.
Bánh vạc is a popular street food in Hoi An and can be found at many food stalls throughout the city. It is also a popular dish at restaurants in Hoi An.
8. Che
Che Hoi An (Hoi An jelly dessert) is a popular dessert in the city of Hoi An, Vietnam. It is made with a variety of ingredients, including jelly, tapioca pearls, beans, and fruits. The jelly is typically made from agar-agar, seaweed-based gelatin, and is flavored with sweet syrup. The tapioca pearls are made from cassava root and are cooked until they are soft and chewy. The beans can be any type, but mung beans are a popular choice. The fruits are typically fresh and in season.
Che Hoi An is often served in a small bowl or cup and is topped with a variety of toppings, such as crushed peanuts, sesame seeds, and condensed milk. It is a sweet and refreshing dessert that is perfect for a hot day.
