In Vietnam, mornings start early, and there’s a certain quiet energy as families prepare for the day ahead. Students get ready for school, and adults prepare for a full day of work. Breakfast, though quick, is never overlooked—it’s a small but treasured ritual.
For Vietnamese families, breakfast is more than just food; it’s the fuel that helps children focus in class and gives adults the strength to tackle their work. It’s that warm bowl of bò kho or crispy bánh mì that lifts everyone’s spirits and fills them with energy. In these early moments, breakfast brings comfort, nourishment, and a touch of joy, setting everyone up for a good day ahead.
xôi mặn
In Vietnam, xôi mặn is more than just breakfast—it’s a piece of childhood, a warm memory of mornings when mothers would lovingly hand their kids a little packet of savory sticky rice before school. Topped with shredded pork, Chinese sausage, dried shrimp, and pickled vegetables, each bite is filled with the familiar flavors of home. For many, xôi mặn brings back the comforting smell and feel of those early mornings, a shared memory of students across generations. Even now, it remains a beloved way to start the day, bringing a taste of nostalgia and a mother’s love into every bite.
Bò kho
Bò kho is a dish that carries with it the warmth of family moments, especially for fathers and their children. Picture this: a father and his child sitting together on a quiet morning, sharing a steaming bowl of bò kho. The tender beef, simmered to perfection with fragrant spices, fills the air with a comforting aroma. As they dip their baguettes into the rich, flavorful broth, there’s a sense of connection—a moment that transcends time. For many, this scene brings back memories of childhood mornings when dad would lovingly serve a bowl of bò kho, ensuring his child was nourished and ready for the day ahead. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a symbol of care, bonding, and the simple joy of sharing a meal together.
Bánh bột lọc
Bánh bột lọc, a beloved delicacy from Phan Thiết, is known for its delicate, chewy tapioca dumplings filled with shrimp or pork, served with fresh herbs and a savory dipping sauce. What truly sets this dish apart is its connection to nước mắm, the rich, umami-packed fish sauce that Phan Thiết is famous for. Made from anchovies and salt through a time-honored process, the region's fish sauce adds depth and flavor to the dipping sauce, complementing the light, chewy texture of the dumplings. For many, bánh bột lọc is not just a meal, but a reminder of home, where every bite is steeped in the culinary tradition of Phan Thiết, where the sea, craftsmanship, and generations of care come together in perfect harmony.