Ben states that the perfect blend of sweet, salty, sour, crunchy, and smoky flavors makes bò lá lốt “one of the most wonderful things on the planet.” The dish consists of minced beef mixed with spices such as green onions, garlic, black pepper, sugar, fish sauce, oyster sauce, and MSG, rolled in betel leaves, and then grilled. The rolls are best when grilled over a hot grill.
Bò lá lốt in Vietnam
According to Ben’s research, bò lá lốt is famous in the Southern region of Vietnam. The dish is believed to have originated in the Middle East before making its way to Vietnam. Initially, the dish consisted of minced, spiced beef wrapped in grape leaves. However, in Vietnam, where grape leaves are not common, betel leaves are used instead. Ben recommends that visitors to Ho Chi Minh City try this specialty at Bò Lá Lốt Phương in District 4.
In early 2023, the male traveler described phở as “Vietnam’s most precious culinary gift to the world,” a fragrant and sophisticated dish. The broth for phở is simmered from beef bones, spices, onions, and ginger, then poured over a bowl of white rice noodles. The seller then tops it with bean sprouts, sliced beef, and fresh herbs. Diners often add lemon and chili to enhance the flavor. “Phở has a unique aroma. It’s the taste of perfection.
For phở, Ben suggests visitors try it in the Old Quarter of Hanoi or District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City.
Phở is a must-try when visiting Vietnam
Bánh xèo is another dish that Ben adores. “Compared to American-style pancakes, Vietnamese bánh xèo is more sophisticated and complex,” he comments. The dish is made from rice flour mixed with turmeric and water, then fried until crispy. During the process, fillings such as pork, seafood, and bean sprouts are added. Bánh xèo is cut into pieces and eaten with fresh vegetables and a sweet and salty dipping sauce. “Cut a piece of bánh xèo, wrap it in lettuce, aromatic herbs, and rice paper, dip it in the sauce, and you’re in heaven,” Ben describes the eating method and his feelings after enjoying this famous Vietnamese dish.
Bánh xèo is “Vietnamese pizza” version
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