Vietnam shines on the global noodle stage

Pho bo- the Hanoi's iconic specialty can be enjoyed everywhere, at any time, throughout the bustling city. Photo: Le Phong

This identification underscores the country's rich noodle culture, which ranges from the iconic bowls of Hanoi's pho bo to regional specialties like Mi Quang.

At the heart of Vietnam's noodle legacy is Hanoi's pho bo , the fragrant beef noodle soup that has become synonymous with the city itself. Revered for its delicate broth and tender beef, pho bo is more than just a meal- it's a culinary ritual, savored on bustling streets and in cozy family-run eateries. Beyond pho , Hanoi offers a variety of noodle dishes, each reflecting the capital's vibrant street food culture and diverse flavors, from stir-fried versions to lighter broths that highlight fresh herbs and local ingredients.

Central Vietnam introduces another jewel to the country's noodle crown: Mi Quang. Often ranking among the top three Vietnamese noodle dishes globally, this specialty combines flat rice noodles with yellow egg noodles, a hint of rich broth, and fresh greens like banana blossom, lettuce, and Vietnamese mint. Proteins such as pork, chicken, shrimp, or fish, plus boiled eggs and roasted peanuts, create a symphony of flavors that is uniquely Quang. Originally from Quang Nam province, Mi Quang has now become a national favorite.

Hailing from Vietnam's Central region, a traditional bowl of Mi Quang showcases a vibrant harmony of golden noodles, fresh seafood, crisp white rice crackers, and lush green vegetables. Photo: Ngoc Tra

Vietnam's noodle diversity, from the beloved pho bo of Hanoi to the fragrant Mi Quang of Central Vietnam, alongside dishes like bun cha (grilled pork with fresh noodle), bun rieu (rice-field crab noodle soup), and others. All these dishes cement the country's reputation as a noodle paradise. For travelers seeking authentic culinary experiences, Vietnam promises a journey through taste, culture, and tradition, one unforgettable bowl at a time.

J apan leads the Taste Atlas's list with 26 dishes, including a dazzling variety of ramen like Yokohama ramen (ranked 1st), Tonkotsu, Miso, Shoyu, Shio, and Hakata, dominating the top spots. China follows with 10 iconic dishes, and other noodle-rich countries like South Korea, Thailand, and Malaysia contribute to the flavorful international tapestry.

By Jenna Duong

Source: http://sodulich.hanoi.gov.vn/vietnam-shines-on-the-global-noodle-stage.html