For all the vegetarians worried about not being able to eat anything but rice in Vietnam—don’t worry! Believe it or not, Vietnamese food has a variety of vegetarian dishes that are both delicious and deeply rooted in the country's culture. One major reason for this is the Buddhist influence in Vietnam. On the 1st and 15th day of each lunar month, many Buddhists follow "An Chay"—which means eating vegetarian in Vietnamese. On these days, you’ll notice many restaurants offering fully vegetarian menus or even temporarily closing if they don’t serve vegetarian dishes.
If you're traveling through Vietnam and want to experience authentic vegetarian dishes, there’s no shortage of flavorful meals to try. Whether it’s a comforting bowl of tofu-based pho or a creative plant-based version of a street food classic, vegetarian travelers will have plenty to explore.
Finding the Best Vegetarian Vietnamese Food
Vietnamese cuisine is rich in plant-based ingredients, making it easy to find vegetarian meals. Whether you're dining at a local food stall or an upscale restaurant, you’ll find vegetarian dishes on most menus. However, for strict vegetarians and vegans, it’s essential to double-check whether fish sauce or shrimp paste is used, as these ingredients are common in many dishes.
If you want to experience Vietnam’s vibrant food scene, consider joining a Hanoi Foodie Experience on Vespa Adventures, where local guides take you to hidden street food gems—including vegetarian-friendly spots! For a deeper dive into the country’s diverse flavors, the Saigon Foodie Experience offers a fantastic way to explore the best Vietnamese food on a vintage Vespa.
Traditional Vegetarian Dishes in Vietnam
Banh Bot Loc Chay (Vegetarian Tapioca Dumplings)
One of the most unique vegetarian dishes is Banh Bot Loc, typically made with shrimp and pork. However, vegetarian versions replace the filling with marinated tofu, seaweed, and mushrooms. The dumplings are wrapped in banana leaves and steamed, creating a chewy, flavorful bite-sized snack.
Vegetarian Cao Lau (Hoi An’s Signature Noodles)
Cao Lau, a famous dish from Hoi An, is traditionally made with pork and a rich soy-based broth. The vegetarian version swaps out the pork for crispy tofu and a mix of herbs, all topped with crunchy rice crackers. The texture and depth of flavor make it a must-try for vegetarians visiting Vietnam.
If you’re in Hoi An, you can try this dish on the Streets and Eats of Hoi An tour, where local chefs prepare vegetarian-friendly options.
Vegetarian Clay Pot Dishes
Another comforting choice is tofu and mushrooms cooked in a clay pot. This dish is packed with umami flavors, thanks to garlic, soy sauce, and a mix of local spices. The clay pot keeps everything warm and enhances the depth of flavor, making it a perfect meal for a chilly evening in Hanoi or Hue.
For an authentic experience, try this dish on the Streets and Eats of Hue tour, where you can sample traditional Vietnamese food in a historic setting.
Morning Glory Stir-Fry (Rau Muong Xao Toi)
A staple in Vietnamese cuisine, morning glory stir-fry is a simple but flavorful dish made with fresh water spinach, garlic, and a touch of soy sauce. It’s often served as a side dish but can be enjoyed as a main when paired with steamed rice.
If you’re joining the Hanoi Foodie Experience, you’ll likely get to taste this dish fresh from a local kitchen.
How to Order Vegetarian Food in Vietnam
Even though there are plenty of vegetarian options, it's always a good idea to know how to communicate your dietary preferences. Here are some useful phrases:
“Tôi ăn chay” – I eat vegetarian.
“Không có nước mắm” – No fish sauce.
“Không có thịt” – No meat.
“Không có hải sản” – No seafood.
By using these phrases, you’ll have a much easier time ensuring that your meal is truly vegetarian.
Final Thoughts: Enjoying Vietnamese Food as a Vegetarian
Overall, eating vegetarian dishes in Vietnam is easier than you might think. Almost every local eatery offers tofu-based meals, and fresh vegetables are always on the menu. While some dishes may include fish sauce, you can always ask for substitutions. If you’re looking for the ultimate food tour experience, join a Vespa Adventures food tour, where guides ensure you get to taste the best of Vietnamese cuisine—vegetarian-friendly included!
For food lovers looking for a deep dive into Vietnamese food, the Saigon Foodie Experience and Hanoi Foodie Experience are perfect ways to explore the diverse flavors of the country.