Role of Herbs in Vietnamese Cuisine

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its richness and diversity in flavors, where herbs play an indispensable role. Herbs such as cilantro, dill, and Vietnamese coriander not only enhance the flavor of dishes but also offer numerous health benefits. In this article, we will explore the importance and usage of these herbs in Vietnamese cuisine.

Cilantro, also known as ngò gai, is one of the most popular herbs in Vietnamese cuisine. It not only has a distinctive aroma but also has anti-inflammatory properties and aids in digestion.

Cilantro is commonly used in dishes like pho, noodle soups, and sour soups. The leaves can be added to the dish just before turning off the heat to retain their aroma. Additionally, cilantro is used in salads and fresh spring rolls to enhance their flavor.

Dill is an herb with a mild fragrance, often used to neutralize the fishy smell of seafood. Dill contains a lot of vitamin C and antioxidants, which are beneficial for cardiovascular health and the immune system.

Dill is frequently used in fish soups, fish hotpots, and grilled seafood dishes. The leaves and stems can be finely chopped and sprinkled on the dish after cooking to maintain their fresh flavor.

Vietnamese coriander has a slightly spicy taste and a distinctive aroma, often used to stimulate the taste buds. It also has antibacterial properties and aids in digestion.

Vietnamese coriander is commonly used in salads, fresh spring rolls, and rice porridge. Particularly, it is an essential ingredient in the dish balut, helping to reduce the fishy smell and enhance the flavor. Additionally, it is used as a garnish and seasoning for soups and broths.

Thai basil is an herb with a strong fragrance and a slightly spicy taste, very popular in Vietnamese cuisine. It contains many antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Thai basil is often used in noodle dishes, pho, and stir-fried dishes. The leaves can be used fresh or pureed to make a seasoning. Moreover, Thai basil is used as a garnish and to add extra flavor to dishes.

Herbs such as cilantro, dill, Vietnamese coriander, and Thai basil not only enrich the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine but also offer numerous health benefits. Using these herbs correctly not only makes the dishes more delicious but also helps the body absorb many valuable nutrients.

At Man, we always focus on using the freshest herbs to bring wonderful culinary experiences to our guests. Come and explore the rich flavors of Vietnamese cuisine at Man restaurant.