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- Vegetarian Foods In Vietnam
Vegetarian Foods In Vietnam
What Are the Popular Vegetarian Foods in Vietnam and How Much Do They Cost?
Vegetarian Food in Vietnam
Vegetarian food has been a part of Vietnamese culture for centuries. With an abundance of fresh vegetables and herbs, Vietnam offers a wide variety of flavorful vegetarian dishes.
The country is also known for its Buddhist influences, which have encouraged many Vietnamese to abstain from eating meat. Whether you are a committed vegan or vegetarian, or just looking to cut down on your meat consumption, you will find plenty of delicious and nutritious options in Vietnam. Don't miss out the experience at Vietnam, book your Vietnam holiday package here!
Vegetarian Culture in Vietnam
The vegetarian culture in Vietnam is deeply rooted in Buddhism, which has influenced the country for centuries. Although there are many Buddhists in Vietnam who do not follow a vegetarian diet, the majority of Buddhists practice vegetarianism at least once a week.
This tradition is known as nhay thuở, which means “refraining from eating meat.” The main principle behind this practice is that by abstaining from eating meat, one's body and soul will be free from suffering.
In addition to Buddhism, Vietnamese folk religion also promotes vegetarianism. It is believed that by abstaining from consuming animal products, one can maintain a pure body and mind and thereby be closer to the gods.
Traditional Dishes
Vietnam has a long history of vegetarianism, with many of its traditional dishes being vegetarian-friendly. Banh mi is one of the most popular dishes in Vietnam and is usually made with vegetables and tofu. Pho is another popular dish and can be made with vegetables, noodles, and tofu. Other traditional dishes like goi cuon, cha gio, and com tam can also be made vegetarian-friendly. Try out these with your loved one by booking a Vietnam honeymoon package.
Modern Dishes
In recent years, modern vegetarian cuisine has become increasingly popular in Vietnam. These dishes can be found in a variety of restaurants, from street-side eateries to high-end restaurants. Some of the most popular dishes include vegan pizza, vegan burgers, and vegan curries. There are also a variety of vegan restaurants that specialize in plant-based cuisine.
Vegetarian-Friendly Markets
Vietnam tourism industry has experienced significant growth, making it a popular destination for travelers. Vietnam is home to a variety of markets, from street markets to large supermarkets. Many of these markets have a section for vegetarian food, which can make it easier for vegetarians to find the ingredients they need. At these markets, you'll find a variety of fresh produce, as well as processed foods like tofu and tempeh.
Famous Vegetarian Foods in Vietnam
Vietnam is home to a wide variety of delicious vegetarian dishes. Here are 10 of the most popular vegetarian dishes in Vietnam:
1. Pho Chay: This is the vegetarian version of Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup. It is made with fresh vegetables, mushrooms, and tofu instead of meat.
2. Goi Cuon: This is a popular Vietnamese salad roll made from rice paper, lettuce, cucumber, and tofu.
3. Banh Xeo: This is a traditional Vietnamese crepe made with rice flour, and turmeric, and filled with mushrooms, bean sprouts, and tofu.
4. Com Chay: This is a vegetarian version of the traditional Vietnamese rice dishes. It is made with steamed rice, mushrooms, and tofu.
5. Bun Chay: This is a vegetarian version of the popular cold noodle dish. It is made with rice noodles, vegetables and tofu.
6. Chao Chay: This is a traditional Vietnamese porridge made with rice, mushrooms and tofu.
7. Banh Bao Chay: This is a vegetarian version of the traditional Vietnamese steamed buns. It is made with rice flour, mushrooms and tofu.
8. Xoi Chay: This is a vegetarian version of the traditional Vietnamese sticky rice dish. It is made with sticky rice, mushrooms, and tofu.
9. Banh Mi Chay: This is a vegetarian version of the popular Vietnamese sandwich. It is made with a French baguette, vegetables and tofu.
10. Bun Bo Chay: This is a vegetarian version of the traditional Vietnamese noodle dish. It is made with rice noodles, vegetables and tofu.
Percentage of Vegetarians in Vietnam
The percentage of vegetarians in Vietnam is estimated to be around 6%. This is much lower than in other countries such as India, where the percentage of vegetarians is estimated to be around 30%. However, it is important to note that the majority of Buddhists in Vietnam observe vegetarianism at least once a week.
Hotels that Provide Complete Vegetarian Menus
There are a number of hotels in Vietnam that offer vegetarian menus. Some of the most popular hotels that provide complete vegetarian menus include the Raffles Hotel in Hanoi, the Fusion Suites in Ho Chi Minh City, and the Sunway Hotel in Phu Quoc.
Vegetarians are Different from Non-Veg Eaters
Vegetarians in Vietnam are often seen as more health-conscious and conscious of their impact on the environment. They are also more likely to be aware of their diets and the ingredients they are consuming. In addition, they are more likely to use fresh, local ingredients, as opposed to processed and imported foods. Furthermore, vegetarians in Vietnam tend to prefer more traditional, home-cooked dishes rather than fast food or Western-style dishes.
Cost of Vegetarian Food Compared to Non-Veg Food
Vegetarian food in Vietnam is generally less expensive than non-vegetarian food. This is due to the abundance of vegetables, herbs, and spices that are used in Vietnamese cooking. Furthermore, the cost of vegetarian dishes is usually lower than the cost of meat-based dishes. For example, a bowl of vegetarian Pho can cost as little as 20,000 VND ($0.85 USD), while a bowl of beef Pho costs around 35,000 VND ($1.50 USD).
Vegetarian food in Vietnam is abundant and delicious. From traditional dishes to modern vegan meals, there are plenty of options for vegetarians. Eating vegetarian can also have a number of health benefits, and it can be a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. With the tips above, you can enjoy the many vegetarian dishes Vietnam has to offer with ease.
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