In the central region of Vietnam has an abundance of spices produced in the mountains here resulting in spicy foods – setting it apart from northern and southern foods. Culinary traditions in central Vietnam hinge on decorative, colorful foods, as this is a region where Vietnamese royalty used to occupy. Subsequently, a lot of the dishes here are smaller in portion size and more sophisticated. Chili peppers and shrimp sauces are frequently used.
Lastly, southern Vietnam has warm weather and more fertile soil which makes perfect conditions to grow fruits, vegetables, and livestock. A lot of southern Vietnam food is vibrant, flavorful, and liberally uses ingredients like fresh herbs and garlic. Sugar is sometimes added into southern Vietnamese food more than in other places. As another representation of the preference for sweetness, there’s also widespread use of coconut milk in the cuisine here.
Despite the differences, across all three main regions of Vietnam, there are a lot of similarities if we’re talking cuisine. The freshness of food is a big theme among all Vietnamese cuisine – meats are briefly cooked, vegetables are eaten fresh or cooked only slightly. In use are an abundance of herbs and vegetables. The variety and harmony of textures, the presentation of condiments and colors used in the types of cuisine, and the sorts of soups and broths used are all common among the regions.
As evidenced, Vietnamese cuisine developed similar to other ethnic cultural traditions. The climate and local products are what’s dictated a lot of Vietnamese food, in addition to philosophies including achieving a yin-yang balance and the rule of the five elements. The aforementioned five flavors are sweet, salty, bitter, sour, and spicy.
The yin-yang balance is something integral to all Vietnamese cuisine, ensuring no dish is ever too much of any one thing. As a spicy ingredient is added in, something to counterbalance it is oftentimes thrown in. Everything on your plate must be balanced, as this is believed to be the healthiest way to eat in Vietnamese culture.
Whether you’re more inclined to enjoy dishes from southern Vietnam, northern Vietnam, or the central region, all of these places are reflected in pho. The consumption of pho across Vietnam and all over the world has resulted in varieties of the popular dish highlighting the regional traditions of Vietnam. Toronto Pho is some of the best you’ll find in Canada and we invite all Vietnamese or non-Vietnamese alike to stop in for a treat. Choose your favourite variety, as vibrant and as unique as you like it. We’re sure you’ll enjoy it!
