3 Vietnamese side dishes listed among Asia’s 100 best

Garlic stir-fried morning glory

TasteAtlas recently released its list of the 100 best side dishes in Asia. Garlic stir-fried water spinach ranked ninth on the list, earning a rating of 4.2 stars from global diners.

In its description of the dish, TasteAtlas wrote the dish is a traditional one that is suitable for vegetarians.

“It's made with a combination of morning glory (water spinach), garlic, fish sauce, salt, sugar, and oyster sauce. The water spinach is blanched, then stir-fried with garlic, salt, and sugar, while the fish sauce is added near the end of cooking.”

According to TasteAtlas, the dish is typically served hot as part of a three-course meal consisting of a stir-fried dish, a boiled or steamed dish, and a soup.

The food guide also recommends pairing garlic stir-fried water spinach with white rice.

Fresh herb platters

Fresh herb platters also appeared on the list, ranking 62nd with a rating of 3.7 stars.

The dish is a staple accompaniment commonly found in Vietnamese meals.

The dish consists of a variety of fresh herbs and vegetables with the most common options including lettuce, herbs such as Thai basil or cilantro, cucumbers, bean sprouts, and occasionally chili peppers.

In Vietnam, fresh herbs are traditionally served as a side dish. They accompany many famous Vietnamese dishes, including pho, bun cha (grilled pork meatballs with vermicelli noodles) and cha gio (fried spring rolls), TasteAtlas wrote in its description of the dish.

Vietnamese crullers

Vietnamese crullers ranked 76th with a rating of 3.6 stars.

According to TasteAtlas, Vietnamese crullers were inspired by China’s youtiao, a popular Chinese delicacy, but they have evolved into an integral part of Vietnam’s culinary culture.

TasteAtlas describes Vietnamese crullers as being made from plain flour, leavening agents, salt, water, and sugar.

After the dough is left to rest for several hours, two pieces of dough are pressed together and deep-fried until golden brown and crispy.

Properly prepared Vietnamese crullers should have a crunchy exterior and a soft, slightly hollow interior.

In Vietnam, fried dough sticks are commonly enjoyed as part of daily meals, especially when served with rice porridge, pho, vermicelli dishes, or dipping sauces.

Their crispy texture and distinctive flavor complement many traditional Vietnamese dishes.

The inclusion of garlic stir-fried water spinach, fresh herb platters, and Vietnamese crullers among Asia’s top side dishes highlights the enduring appeal and culinary value of these simple yet beloved staples of Vietnamese cuisine.