Top 3 Southern Vietnamese Rice Dishes

Cơm tấm is a traditional dish that's typically sold as street food. It consists of broken and imperfect rice grains that were traditionally chucked away after the milling process, but nowadays it's a signature dish of Ho Chi Minh City. Broken rice has a texture that's similar to normal rice, just smaller. When served, cơm tấm is accompanied by numerous toppings such as fried eggs, shredded pork skin, grilled pork chops, or deep-fried fish patties. The usual garnishes include lime wedges, chopped spring onions, and mint, while accompaniments served on the side include sliced tomatoes and cucumbers, pickled vegetables, or dipping sauces. Local cơm tấm eateries are easily found because they usually have a coal-fired grill on the street, dispersing the smoke scented with lemongrass and charred meat, a result of preparing the accompaniments for broken rice. In the past, these broken rice grains were usually used as animal feed or eaten by the farmers and their families.Expand

Cơm tấm sườn is a classic dish from South Vietnam. It consists of grilled pork served on top of broken rice. The combination is often topped with a mix of stir-fried onions and pickles, and it's accompanied by fish sauce for dipping. The pork is typically marinated in lemongrass, pepper, garlic, and fish sauce before it's grilled. This dish is usually served in the morning for breakfast.Expand

Cơm dừa tép rang is a traditional dish originating from Ben Tre, famous for its coconuts. The dish consists of rice that’s steamed in a coconut and served with roasted baby shrimp on the side. The top of the coconut is cut off and the juice is taken out. The rice is soaked in the same coconut juice before it’s placed inside the coconut with coconut juice and additional ingredients such as carrots, onions, herbs, lotus seeds, peas, or pieces of squid. The lid is placed back on the coconut and it’s steamed until the ingredients inside are fully cooked and the flavors blend together. The rice should be golden and fragrant. The dish is served with shrimps that have been caramelized with coconut juice and selected seasonings.Expand