List of Vietnamese ingredients

List of Vietnamese Ingredients

Vietnamese cuisine is known for its balance of five elements, which are represented by different Vietnamese ingredients. These elements are spicy (am), sour (chua), bitter (dang), salty (man) and sweet (ngot). Each Vietnamese dish has a distinctive flavor which reflects one or more of these elements.

Common Vietnamese Ingredients

Herbs and Spices

• Basil: A common herb used in Vietnamese cuisine, particularly in pho.
• Mint: Used in a variety of dishes for its refreshing flavor.
• Lemongrass: A fragrant herb that is often used in soups and stews.
• Ginger: A root used for its spicy, aromatic flavor.
• Cilantro: Also known as coriander, this herb is used in many Vietnamese dishes.

Vegetables

• Bok choy: A type of Chinese cabbage commonly used in Vietnamese cooking.
• Bean sprouts: Often used as a garnish in pho and other noodle dishes.
• Water spinach: A popular vegetable in Vietnam, often stir-fried with garlic.
• Bitter melon: A unique vegetable with a strong bitter taste, often used in soups.

Proteins

• Pork: A common meat in Vietnamese cuisine, used in a variety of dishes.
• Chicken: Often used in soups and noodle dishes.
• Beef: Commonly used in pho, a popular Vietnamese noodle soup.
• Tofu: A popular protein source for vegetarian and vegan dishes.

Grains and Noodles

• Rice: A staple in Vietnamese cuisine, served in many forms.
• Rice noodles: Used in a variety of dishes, including pho and bun cha.
• Rice paper: Used to make spring rolls and other appetizers.

Condiments and Sauces

• Fish sauce: A common condiment made from fermented fish and salt.
• Soy sauce: Used as a seasoning in many dishes.
• Hoisin sauce: A sweet and spicy sauce often used in pho.

See Also

• Vietnamese cuisine
• Vietnamese recipes
• Vietnamese cooking techniques

This is a non-exhaustive food and drink related list.