Hu Tieu – The Soulful Southern Noodle Soup

A signature dish of Southern Vietnam, Hu Tieu is a light yet flavorful noodle soup that embodies the Mekong Delta’s culinary traditions. Made with a clear, fragrant broth, soft rice noodles, and a combination of pork, shrimp, and fresh herbs, this dish highlights the Vietnamese commitment to fresh ingredients and balanced flavors.

Why It Stood Out to Gordon Ramsay

During his visit to the Mekong Delta, Ramsay was captivated by Hu Tieu’s depth of flavor and its versatility. The broth, simmered for hours with pork bones and aromatics, delivers a delicate yet umami-rich taste. Whether served dry (with broth on the side) or as a soup, Hu Tieu is a must-try for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Southern Vietnam.

“This bowl of hu tieu, a stunning, delicious slow-cooked Vietnamese pork noodle soup, is the greatest dish I’ve ever had” – that is what Gordon Ramsay commented about Hu Tieu when he brought it to the hit TV show MasterChef season 4.

Bun Rieu – The Bold and Tangy Crab Noodle Soup

Heading north, we encounter Bun Rieu, a vibrant tomato-based noodle soup packed with crab, pork, and fresh herbs. Known for its slightly sour and umami-forward broth, Bun Rieu is a dish that perfectly exemplifies Vietnam’s culinary ingenuity.

The Unique Flavors That Impressed Ramsay

What sets Bun Rieu apart is its use of freshwater crab, which is pounded into a paste and mixed with pork and egg to create tender, flavorful crab cakes. The broth, infused with tomatoes, vinegar, and shrimp paste, has a bold yet harmonious flavor profile. Ramsay admired the dish’s complexity and its seamless balance between tangy, savory, and fresh elements.

Banh Cuon – The Delicate Steamed Rice Rolls

For a lighter yet equally delicious option, Banh Cuon is a Northern Vietnamese specialty that showcases the art of delicate textures. These thin, steamed rice rolls are filled with seasoned pork and mushrooms, then served with fresh herbs and a side of tangy dipping sauce.

The Art Behind Banh Cuon

The beauty of Banh Cuon lies in its simplicity. The rice batter is carefully steamed to create soft, translucent sheets, which are then skillfully rolled around the savory filling. Ramsay was fascinated by the precision required to achieve the perfect texture—soft, slightly chewy, and bursting with flavor when dipped in the classic fish sauce-based dressing.

Barbecued Duck – A Hanoi Classic

Vietnamese barbecue is a hidden gem, and barbecued duck in Hanoi is a prime example of the country’s ability to elevate simple ingredients through expert cooking techniques. This dish features duck marinated in a blend of soy sauce, honey, garlic, and spices before being slow-roasted to achieve a perfect balance of crispy skin and tender meat.

Why It’s a Must-Try

Ramsay, known for his love of well-executed roasted meats, was drawn to the depth of flavor in this dish. The duck’s crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the juicy, flavorful interior, making it a standout in Hanoi’s vibrant food scene. The rich, smoky aroma and caramelized skin make it an unforgettable culinary experience.

Goi Cuon – The Refreshing Summer Rolls

No exploration of Vietnamese cuisine is complete without Goi Cuon, the beloved fresh summer rolls. These translucent rice paper rolls are packed with fresh vegetables, shrimp or pork, and vermicelli noodles, then served with a peanut-hoisin or fish sauce-based dip.

The Appeal of Fresh, Healthy Eating

Ramsay appreciated the simplicity and balance of Goi Cuon. The dish embodies the essence of Vietnamese cuisine—light, fresh, and packed with flavor. It’s a perfect representation of the country’s dedication to using fresh ingredients and creating dishes that nourish both body and soul.

Embracing the Culinary Heritage of Vietnam

These five iconic dishes offer more than just a taste of Vietnam; they provide a window into the country’s deep-rooted culinary traditions. Whether it’s the comforting warmth of Hu Tieu, the bold flavors of Bun Rieu, the delicate craftsmanship of Banh Cuon, the rich smokiness of barbecued duck, or the refreshing simplicity of Goi Cuon, each dish tells a story of regional pride, history, and cultural harmony.

For travelers seeking an authentic Vietnamese food experience, these dishes are essential. At Up Travel, we believe that food is one of the most enriching ways to explore a culture. Join us on a culinary journey through Vietnam, where every bite reveals a new layer of history, tradition, and unparalleled flavor.