Beyond Pho: A Look into Vietnamese Herbs and Spices

• April 02 2023
• 8 min reading time

Vietnamese cuisine is famous for its bold, complex flavours, and one of the key factors that sets it apart is the diverse range of herbs and spices used in cooking. From pungent herbs like coriander and Thai basil to aromatic spices like cinnamon and star anise, Vietnamese cuisine is a celebration of bold and unique flavours. In this article, we will take a deeper dive into the world of Vietnamese herbs and spices beyond the ubiquitous pho. We will explore the role of these ingredients in Vietnamese cooking, introduce some of the essential herbs and spices used in Vietnamese cuisine, and provide tips for using them in your own cooking. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this article will help you understand the diversity and versatility of Vietnamese herbs and spices, and inspire you to experiment with them in your own kitchen.

Understanding the Role of Herbs and Spices in Vietnamese Cuisine

Herbs and spices play a crucial role in Vietnamese cuisine, adding depth, aroma, and complexity to dishes. They are used in marinades, sauces, dressings, and as finishing touches to enhance the flavour and texture of a dish. Vietnamese cuisine often balances the five taste elements of sweet, sour, bitter, salty, and umami, and herbs and spices are key components in achieving this balance. For example, lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves add a citrusy, tangy flavour to dishes, while cinnamon and star anise contribute a sweet, warm taste. Meanwhile, herbs like Thai basil and mint provide a fresh, herbaceous flavour that cuts through the richness of meat dishes. Vietnamese herbs and spices are also valued for their health benefits. Many of them have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties, and are used in traditional Vietnamese medicine to treat various ailments.

Top 10 Essential Herbs and Spices in Vietnamese Cooking

Here are the top 10 essential herbs and spices in Vietnamese cooking:

• Lemongrass - This herb has a citrusy, lemon-like flavour and is used in many Vietnamese dishes, including soups, curries, and stir-fries.
• Star anise - Star anise has a warm, sweet flavour and is a key ingredient in pho broth, as well as in marinades and sauces.
• Cinnamon - Vietnamese cinnamon has a stronger and more fragrant flavour than other types of cinnamon, and is often used in savoury dishes like beef stew or chicken curry.
• Thai basil - This herb has a sweet, anise-like flavour and is commonly used in stir-fries, noodle dishes, and soups.
• Coriander - Coriander has a bright, citrusy flavour and is often used as a garnish in Vietnamese dishes, as well as in marinades and dressings.
• Mint - Vietnamese mint has a slightly spicy, minty flavour and is commonly used in salads, soups, and noodle dishes.
• Ginger - Ginger adds a warm, pungent flavour to Vietnamese dishes and is often used in marinades, soups, and stir-fries.
• Garlic - Garlic is a staple in Vietnamese cooking and is used in marinades, sauces, and stir-fries to add flavour and aroma.
• Shallots - Shallots have a milder, sweeter flavour than onions and are commonly used in marinades, dressings, and stir-fries.
• Turmeric - Turmeric has a warm, earthy flavour and is often used to add colour and flavour to Vietnamese dishes, particularly in curry and noodle dishes.

Recipes Featuring Vietnamese Herbs and Spices Beyond Pho

Here are some recipe ideas that feature Vietnamese herbs and spices beyond pho:

• Lemongrass Chicken Skewers - Marinate chicken in a mixture of lemongrass, garlic, shallots, fish sauce, and sugar, then grill on skewers for a flavourful and aromatic dish.
• Bun Cha - This Vietnamese noodle dish features grilled pork meatballs seasoned with garlic, shallots, and fish sauce, served with a dipping sauce made from vinegar, sugar, fish sauce, chilli, and herbs like mint and cilantro.
• Banh Mi - This popular Vietnamese sandwich is made with a baguette filled with grilled meat (such as pork or chicken), pickled vegetables, cilantro, and chilli peppers.
• Goi Cuon (Vietnamese Spring Rolls) - These fresh and healthy spring rolls are filled with rice noodles, shrimp or pork, herbs like mint and cilantro, and wrapped in rice paper. Serve with a peanut dipping sauce made with hoisin sauce, peanut butter, and chilli.
• Chao Ga (Vietnamese Chicken Congee) - This comforting rice porridge is made with chicken, ginger, garlic, and rice, and is served with a variety of toppings like fried shallots, herbs like cilantro and scallions, and crispy fried dough sticks.

These recipes showcase the versatility of Vietnamese herbs and spices beyond the traditional pho dish, and can help you explore new flavours and textures in Vietnamese cuisine.

Pairing Vietnamese Herbs and Spices with Other Cuisines

Vietnamese herbs and spices can add a unique and exciting twist to dishes from other cuisines. Here are some examples of how you can pair Vietnamese herbs and spices with other cuisines:

• Lemongrass and Thai basil in Thai cuisine - Lemongrass and Thai basil are commonly used in Thai cuisine, and can add an extra layer of flavour to dishes like green curry and tom yum soup.
• Star anise and cinnamon in Indian cuisine - Star anise and cinnamon are often used in Indian cooking, and can be added to curries, biryanis, and other dishes for a warm, aromatic flavour.
• Coriander and mint in Middle Eastern cuisine - Coriander and mint are staple herbs in Middle Eastern cuisine, and can be used in dishes like tabbouleh, falafel, and hummus for a fresh and herbaceous flavour.
• Turmeric and ginger in Southeast Asian cuisine - Turmeric and ginger are used in many Southeast Asian dishes, including Malaysian and Indonesian cuisine, and can add a bright, warm flavour to curries and stir-fries.
• Garlic and shallots in French cuisine - Garlic and shallots are commonly used in French cooking, and can be added to sauces, stews, and other dishes for an extra boost of flavour.

Exploring the Regional Variations in Vietnamese Herbs and Spices

Vietnamese cuisine is diverse, and the use of herbs and spices can vary from region to region. Here's a closer look at some of the regional variations in Vietnamese herbs and spices:

• Northern Vietnam - Northern Vietnamese cuisine often features milder flavours and relies heavily on herbs like dill and scallions. The use of ginger, garlic, and shallots is also common.
• Central Vietnam - Central Vietnamese cuisine is known for its spicy and bold flavours, and often uses herbs like lemongrass, chilli peppers, and shrimp paste. Turmeric and galangal are also common ingredients in this region.
• Southern Vietnam - Southern Vietnamese cuisine is influenced by the Mekong Delta and features a lot of seafood and fresh vegetables. Herbs like mint and cilantro are commonly used, as well as tamarind and coconut milk for sour and sweet flavours.
• Highlands - The highlands of Vietnam are known for their aromatic spices, like cinnamon, star anise, and black cardamom. These spices are often used in meat dishes and stews.
• Hue - The ancient city of Hue in central Vietnam has a cuisine that is distinct from other regions and often features complex and intricate dishes. Hue cuisine uses a lot of herbs like lemongrass, ginger, and garlic, as well as unique ingredients like banana flowers and sesame seeds.

Exploring the regional variations in Vietnamese herbs and spices can be a fun and exciting way to learn more about the diverse flavours and culinary traditions of Vietnam. By trying out different dishes from different regions, you can discover new and interesting combinations of herbs and spices and expand your culinary horizons.

Conclusion: The Endless Possibilities of Vietnamese Herbs and Spices

Vietnamese herbs and spices offer a world of exciting and unique flavours to explore in your cooking. From the fragrant lemongrass to the warm cinnamon and star anise, the possibilities are endless. Whether you're looking to add depth and complexity to your favourite dishes or to experiment with new and exotic flavours, Vietnamese herbs and spices offer a wealth of possibilities. By understanding the role of herbs and spices in Vietnamese cuisine, exploring the top essential herbs and spices, discovering lesser-known herbs and spices, trying out recipes beyond pho, pairing Vietnamese herbs and spices with other cuisines, and exploring regional variations, you can embark on a culinary journey of discovery. Moreover, with the potential health benefits that many Vietnamese herbs and spices offer, incorporating them into your cooking can be a delicious and nutritious way to enhance your overall health and wellbeing. So, don't be afraid to experiment with Vietnamese herbs and spices in your cooking. There's always something new to discover and explore, and the world of Vietnamese cuisine is sure to surprise and delight your taste buds.

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