In Vietnamese culture, a meal is a communal event, a time for connection and shared discovery. This philosophy begins not with the main course, but with an inviting array of small plates designed to excite the palate and encourage conversation. At Lang Viet, our selection of Vietnamese starters is a vibrant introduction to the textures and flavours that define this magnificent cuisine. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this guide will help you navigate the perfect beginning to your culinary journey.
Understanding the Vietnamese Starter: Fresh, Crispy, and Savoury
Vietnamese starters beautifully showcase the cuisine’s core contrasts. They can be broadly enjoyed in three delightful categories: the Fresh and Light, the Crispy and Fried, and the Savoury Grilled. The best way to experience them is by mixing and matching across these groups.
The Fresh and Light
- Summer Rolls (Gỏi Cuốn): The epitome of freshness. Translucent rice paper wraps around prawns, pork, vermicelli, and herbs, served cool with a rich peanut dipping sauce. A healthy, refined start.
- Lotus Stem Salad (Gỏi Ngó Sen): A textural wonder often enjoyed as a starter. Crisp, tangy lotus stems are tossed with a zingy dressing, herbs, and prawns. It is sour, sweet, crunchy, and utterly addictive.
The Crispy and Fried
- Spring Rolls (Chả Giò): The undeniable classic. Delicate rice paper is filled with seasoned minced pork and vegetables, fried to a perfect golden crisp, and dipped in nước chấm.
- Vegetarian Rolls: Our plant-based star, packed with tofu, mushrooms, and glass noodles, offering all the satisfying crunch without the meat.
- Deep Fried Tofu (Đậu Hũ Chiên): A lesson in simplicity. Cubes of silken tofu are fried to a golden, slightly chewy exterior while the inside remains custard-soft. Served with a salty-sweet dip, it is a must-try.
The Savoury and Grilled
- Betel Wrapped Meat (Bò Lá Lốt): An iconic dish for the adventurous. Seasoned minced beef is wrapped in aromatic betel leaves and grilled, imparting a unique, peppery-herbal flavour.
- Salt and Garlic Squid (Mực Chiên Tỏi Ớt): Tender squid, lightly coated and wok-tossed with a generous amount of fragrant fried garlic, chilli, and spring onions.
- Salt and Garlic Prawns (Tôm Chiên Tỏi Ớt): Similarly prepared, these plump prawns are a crowd-pleaser, boasting the same addictive garlicky savouriness.
- Golden Chicken Wings & Salted Chicken Wings: Two superb styles. The Golden wings are crispy with a mild, sweet glaze, while the Salted version offers a deep, umami-rich flavour.
Building Your Perfect Sharing Platter
- For Two: Select one from each category. For example, Summer Rolls (Fresh), Vegetarian Rolls (Crispy), and Salt and Garlic Squid (Grilled).
- For a Group: Embrace variety! A Lotus Stem Salad, Spring Rolls, Deep Fried Tofu, Betel Wrapped Meat, and a plate of Golden Chicken Wings creates a feast.
- Vegetarian Selection: Vegetarian Rolls, Deep Fried Tofu, and a fresh salad make a fantastic plant-based start.
The Lang Viet Difference: Authenticity in Every Detail
What elevates our starters is unwavering attention to craft. Our rolls are hand-rolled daily, our dipping sauces are balanced in-house, and our grilling captures the essential smoky wok aroma. This dedication ensures every small plate is a true ambassador of authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
Ready to start your flavour journey? Explore our full menu of Vietnamese starters and main courses online. At Lang Viet, we make sharing a delicious adventure. Book your table today and taste the difference that tradition makes.