17 Vietnamese snacks to try and buy as food souvenirs

From crispy spring rolls to savory ‘banh xeo’, Vietnamese snacks offer diverse tastes and textures. They not only make for scrumptious meals but also take you on a journey to explore Vietnam’s rich culinary heritage.

Bursting with distinct flavors, Vietnamese snacks offer an enticing insight into the nation’s culinary scene. Some of these treats tell ancient tales, while others bring a contemporary flair to tradition. We will explore vibrant street markets and cozy family kitchens to discover the most delicious bites. Prepare to snack like a local during your Vietnam travel adventure!

1. The top cakes on the list of Vietnamese snacks

1.1. Sesame balls (banh cam)

While their name suggests a citrusy flavor because “cam” means “orange” in Vietnamese, sesame balls, or banh cam, do not taste anything like oranges or orange juice.

In fact, the outer shell of these cakes is made from glutinous rice flour. The filling consists of ground mung beans, rolled into balls, coated with sesame seeds, and deep-fried. Apart from the sesame version, some regions in the country offer a variation of this treat with a coat of caramelized sugar instead of sesame. 

Among a wide array of Vietnamese cakes and Vietnamese snacks, the allure of banh cam lies in its crisp exterior, soft interior, and the delightful contrast between the nutty sesame seeds and the sweet mung bean filling, leaving a memorable taste on the palate.

1.2. Vietnamese mini savory pancakes (banh khot)

Vietnamese mini savory pancakes are a special food in Vietnam, originating from the southern region. Made from a thin rice flour batter, these pancakes are cooked on a hot griddle. The batter is poured into a specialized mold and topped with various ingredients, like shrimp and green onions. The result is a crispy yet slightly chewy pancake. This delightful treat, with its unique blend of flavors and textures, is a must-try among Vietnamese snacks.

Banh khot is typically enjoyed with fresh herbs and a dipping sauce made of fish sauce, vinegar, and sugar (Source: Collected)

1.3. Prawn crackers (banh phong tom)

Prawn cracker is a renowned specialty from the Ca Mau Peninsula, particularly in Ca Mau and Bac Lieu provinces. Among traditional Vietnamese snacks, this treat is crafted from a blend of fresh prawns, tapioca flour, egg whites, baking powder, green onions, and pepper. The mixture is steamed, sun-dried, and then fried to achieve its crispy texture. The crackers are fragrant, soft, and crispy, with a harmonious blend of prawn sweetness and a hint of peppery spice. 

Popular brands from this region are highly sought-after by visitors. As one of the most beloved Vietnamese snacks, prawn crackers are one of the excellent Vietnamese snack chips and a delightful food souvenir for friends and family.

1.4. Fried glutinous rice balls (banh ran)

Fried glutinous rice balls (banh ran) are a beloved specialty found throughout Vietnam, from the North to the South. These Vietnamese snacks usually consist of glutinous rice balls filled with sweet mung bean paste. Red bean or coconut can also be used as fillings, but they are less common. The rice balls are coated in white sesame seeds before being fried in hot oil until golden. The result is a crispy exterior with a warm, fragrant, and sweet filling.

There is also a savory version, shaped like an oval, filled with minced meat, mushrooms, and glass noodles, served with sweet and sour fish sauce. These Vietnamese rice snacks are a delicious treat enjoyed by many locals and foreigners alike.

1.5. Vietnamese pancake (banh xeo)

Vietnamese pancake (banh xeo) is a specialty found throughout Vietnam, resembling a crispy crepe. These delightful snacks from Vietnam are made with a batter of rice flour mixed with water, turmeric, and coconut milk, giving them a beautiful yellow hue.

The filling typically consists of shrimp, minced pork, and bean sprouts, all sautéed and spread over the crispy pancake. Banh xeo is best enjoyed hot, cut into small pieces, wrapped with fresh herbs, and dipped in sweet and sour fish sauce.

Among Vietnamese snacks, banh xeo stands out as a delicious mini savory pancake (Source: Collected)

1.6. Mung bean cubes (banh dau xanh)

Banh dau xanh, or Vietnamese mung bean cake, is a celebrated specialty of Hai Duong, a picturesque province in northern Vietnam. The main ingredient of this delicacy is mung bean, which is meticulously cooked and ground into a smooth, velvety paste. This paste is then blended with sugar and coconut milk, creating a dessert that is both creamy and subtly sweet. 

The true charm of banh dau xanh lies not only in its delightful flavor but also in its presentation. The mung bean paste is carefully shaped into small, bite-sized cubes, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship passed down through generations. These cubes offer a delightful treat for both the palate and the eyes, making banh dau xanh among the popular snacks in Vietnam.

2. Candies and Vietnamese snacks made from fruits

2.1. Coconut candy (keo dua)

Keo dua, a cherished Vietnamese snack originating from the lush coconut groves of the Mekong Delta, embodies the essence of Vietnamese culinary tradition. This classic treat is crafted by simmering a mixture of coconut and sugar over a gentle heat until it thickens into a cohesive mass. 

Once cooled, the candy block is divided into bite-sized pieces. Keo dua not only captivates with its chewy texture and rich coconut flavor but is also revered for its cultural significance. This treat has earned its place as one of the most beloved snacks from Vietnam, enjoyed both locally and internationally.

2.2. Sesame candy (me xung)

Sesame candy (me xung) is a specialty of Hue, reflecting the soul of this ancient city. Known as one of the most iconic Vietnamese snacks, its creation involves a simple yet artistic process. Sesame seeds and peanuts are roasted, while sugar is cooked with rice flour and water. Once the mixture thickens and caramelizes, malt and roasted peanuts are added. 

Then, the candy is spread thinly over a layer of golden sesame seeds, cooled, and then cut into even pieces. The result is a chewy, fragrant candy rich in the flavors of peanuts and sesame. 

Me xung is often enjoyed with a cup of hot tea to enhance its unique taste (Source: Collected)

2.3. Peanut and rice paper brittle (keo cu do)

Keo cu do, renowned as a signature delicacy of Ha Tinh Province, is one of the traditional Vietnamese candy snacks crafted from peanuts, ginger, and cane molasses. Despite its simplicity in ingredients, preparing this snack requires precision and finesse.

After melting the molasses to a golden caramel hue, roasted peanuts, and white sesame seeds are swiftly incorporated into the mixture. The caramelized nut blend is then sandwiched between two crispy rice papers. 

The resulting confection harmoniously blends sweet, chewy, and subtly spicy flavors, complemented by an enticing aroma. Often enjoyed with a steaming cup of green tea, this rustic delight offers a delightful taste of Vietnamese culinary heritage.

2.4. Dried fruits (o mai) – the best snacks to bring back from Vietnam

Among all Vietnamese snacks, o mai holds a special place. It consists of salted dried fruits like apricot, plum, peach, dracontomelon, kumquat, etc.

What makes o mai one of the most popular Hanoi souvenirs is that they are packed with flavors. You will first taste a burst of sweetness, soon followed by a subtle touch of saltiness that balances the sweetness and adds complexity. The fruit’s natural chewiness completes the experience, creating a multisensory delight that leaves you wanting more.

2.5. Marou chocolate – one of the most famous Vietnamese snacks

When thinking of chocolate, Belgium, Switzerland, or Italy usually come to mind. However, Vietnam also offers some of the world’s finest bars. Marou Chocolate, established by two chocolatiers in 2011, uses premium cacao beans from different Vietnamese provinces to craft their chocolate, blending tradition with innovation.

Unlike mass-produced chocolate, where bean origins are often obscured, Marou’s bean-to-bar method ensures each bar reflects Vietnam’s unique cacao terroir. Each bar is named after the province where the cacao is sourced, such as “Dong Nai” with spicy undertones and “Ba Ria” with bright fruity notes. Since then, this has been a great option for Vietnam snack souvenirs.

For the best Vietnam snacks to bring home, do not miss out on Marou Chocolate (Source: Collected

3. Other Vietnamese snacks which you may not know

3.1. Vietnamese fried spring rolls (cha gio/nem)

Vietnamese fried spring rolls, known as cha gio or nem, are a beloved snack found throughout Vietnam. They are typically filled with a flavorful mixture of minced pork, shrimp, and a variety of vegetables, such as carrots, mushrooms, glass noodles, and bean sprouts. This savory filling is wrapped tightly in thin rice paper before being deep-fried to a crispy golden brown, creating a contrast of textures with a crunchy exterior and a hot, aromatic interior.

Vietnamese spring rolls are often enjoyed with a side of fresh herbs and lettuce for wrapping, along with a dipping sauce made of fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and chili. This dish exemplifies the balance of flavors and textures that are characteristic of Vietnamese cuisine, making it a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.

3.2. Vietnamese rice paper salad (banh trang tron)

Vietnamese rice paper salad originates from Trang Bang, Tay Ninh, but has become a popular Vietnamese street food, especially in Ho Chi Minh City. This flavorful dish features thin, crispy rice paper cut into small pieces and mixed with a variety of ingredients, such as dried shrimp, beef jerky, fresh herbs, peanuts, rolled rice paper, fried shallots, shrimp paste, and other spices.

The combination of sweet, sour, spicy, salty, and crunchy flavors creates a delightful culinary experience. Typically sold at street stalls, markets, and corners throughout Ho Chi Minh City, banh trang tron not only attracts locals but also tourists seeking an authentic Vietnamese street food experience. Famous spots like Banh Trang Tron Co Thao, Banh Trang Tron Co Tien, and Banh Trang Tron Van Kiep are renowned for serving this tasty snack.

Banh trang tron is a must-try among Vietnamese snacks for its vibrant flavors and unique texture (Source: Collected)

3.3. Vietnamese summer rolls (goi cuon)

Vietnamese summer rolls are a signature snack enjoyed throughout Vietnam. These rolls feature thin rice paper filled with ingredients like boiled pork or shrimp, along with fresh herbs such as lettuce, mint, cilantro, and cucumber, delivering a refreshing and wholesome taste. 

Goi cuon is meticulously rolled by hand into tight, cylindrical shapes, perfect for dipping into garlic chili fish sauce, soy sauce, or seasoned fish sauce. This snack is cherished by both locals and international tourists for its lightness and vibrant flavors, making it a quintessential part of Vietnamese snacks and street food culture.

3.4. Vietnamese sugar cane shrimp (chao tom)

Vietnamese sugar cane shrimp, known as “chao tom,” is a traditional delicacy originating from Hue. It features fresh shrimp finely ground and marinated with spices, molded around sugar cane sticks, then steamed, grilled, or fried to perfection. Chao tom is often served with fresh herbs, vermicelli noodles, and a sweet-sour dipping sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. 

This dish exemplifies the intricate culinary craftsmanship of Hue cuisine, renowned for its use of fresh ingredients and meticulous preparation methods. Chao tom is a beloved item among Vietnamese snacks and stands as a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Vietnam, particularly in the central region.

3.5. Crispy rice (com chay)

Crispy rice, a renowned specialty of Ninh Binh, is crafted from cooked rice that is cooled and then fried to a golden perfection. This crunchy delight is topped with a variety of seasonings and spices, often including shredded pork floss. Often conveniently packaged for purchase as a souvenir, it is perfect for those wanting to take a piece of Vietnamese culinary tradition home.

Alternatively, when enjoyed directly at local restaurants or homestays, the crispy rice is often plain and served alongside goat meat soup. This traditional pairing highlights the simplicity and authentic flavors of Ninh Binh cuisine, offering a unique experience for food enthusiasts seeking local culinary adventures.

Crispy rice is a Vietnamese snack food perfect for a midday light meal (Source: Collected)

3.6. Grilled rice paper (banh trang nuong)

Grilled rice paper, or “banh trang nuong,” is a popular Vietnamese snack known for its irresistible aroma and variety of toppings. Street vendors typically set up small stalls where they make this snack on the spot with charcoal grills.

When a customer orders, a piece of rice paper is placed on the grill, topped with a beaten egg or quail egg mixed with spring onions, followed by sausage, dried shrimp, fried shallots, and pork floss. The intense heat crisps the rice paper, melding the toppings with the egg, creating a harmonious blend of savory and sweet flavors. Banh trang nuong is one of the most well-loved Vietnamese snacks for its delicious taste and cheap price.

Vietnamese snacks offer a delightful journey for your taste buds. Whether it is the sweet allure of coconut candy or the crispy satisfaction of rice crusts, each snack reflects the rich cultural heritage of the country. As global tastes evolve, these treats serve as culinary marvels and cultural emissaries, inviting everyone to savor their distinctive and savory flavors. So, dive in and let your palate explore the vibrant markets of Vietnam!

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Furthermore, for those seeking enjoyment, visit VinWonders entertainment complexes. Spanning various locations nationwide, VinWonders provides exhilarating attractions, lively festivals, invigorating water parks, vibrant zoos, and numerous other activities to enhance your vacation experience.

VinWonders offers diverse entertainment experiences across Vietnam, from thrilling rides to cultural showcases