I’ve included a list of the best and most famous restaurants for this dish at the end of the article! These fantastic spots are usually located in the charming Old Quarter of Hanoi.
Introduction to Bun Dau Mam Tom:
Origin and Preparation of Bún Đậu Mắm Tôm (Vermicelli with Fried Tofu and Shrimp Paste)
Bún đậu mắm tôm is a rustic yet iconic dish in Hanoi, known for its bold and unique flavor profile. It combines fresh rice vermicelli (bún), crispy fried tofu, and the star of the dish, fermented shrimp paste (mắm tôm). Though simple in its ingredients, bún đậu mắm tôm is beloved for its powerful flavors and the variety of textures it offers.
How to Make Bun Dau Mam Tom
At its core, the dish consists of firm tofu, which is cut into cubes and deep-fried until golden and crispy. The tofu is served alongside cold vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs like perilla and mint, and slices of boiled pork belly. The highlight of bún đậu mắm tôm is the pungent shrimp paste dipping sauce, which is mixed with lime juice, sugar, and chili to create a bold, savory, and slightly sweet condiment.
For those who enjoy a heartier version, the dish can also be accompanied by fried pork, blood pudding, or cha com (green rice pork sausage). This combination of ingredients, along with the powerful flavors of mắm tôm, creates an unforgettable culinary experience that is both rustic and rich.
Local restaurant list:
- Name: Bun Dau Mam Tom Co Hoa
Opening hours: 7:00 – 15:00 & 17:00 – 20:00
Address: 25 Au Trieu, Hoan Kiem
Price range: 35,000 VND – 100,000 VND
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