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Discover Bun Dau Mam Tom in Hanoi: A Vietnamese Culinary Gem

08:07 - 15/11/2024

5/5 - (2 votes)

One of Vietnam’s hidden gems is a dish as sophisticated as it is mouthwatering, bun dau mam tom in Hanoi. You have found the perfect meal if you are seeking a gastronomic excursion that will tickle your taste receptors and fully submerge you in Vietnamese culture. From its beginnings to how to eat this meal, this MOTOGO Tours guide will cover all you need to know about it.

Bun dau mam tom, a dish that’s as complex as it is delicious, is one of Vietnam's hidden treasures. — Bun dau mam tom in Hanoi, a dish that’s as complex as it is delicious, is one of Vietnam’s hidden treasures. ( Source: Collected)

What is Bun Dau Mam Tom?

Mostly composed of rice noodles (bun), fried tofu (dau), and a unique shrimp paste (mam tom), this is a typical Vietnamese meal. These components taken together produce a really appealing combination of tastes and textures.

Origins and History

Bun dau mam tom started as a modest meal in northern Vietnam, where its roots are. Originally savored by the working class, it has become a staple food all around. Every area has its own twist, but the basic ingredients stay the same so this meal may honor its history and fit current palates.

Bun dau mam tom is a traditional Vietnamese dish primarily made from rice noodles, fried tofu, and a special shrimp paste ( Source: Collected)

Ingredients of Bun Dau Mam Tom

To truly appreciate bun dau, it’s essential to understand its components.

Main Components

The dish centers around a few key ingredients:

Rice Noodles (Bun): Soft and chewy, these noodles serve as the foundation of the dish.
Fried Tofu (Dau): Crispy on the outside and soft inside, tofu adds a delightful texture.
Shrimp Paste (Mam Tom): This is the star of the show. Its bold flavor defines the dish and brings all the elements together.

Accompaniments

Bun dau mam tom wouldn’t be complete without its accompanying sides:

Herbs: Fresh herbs like mint and cilantro enhance the flavor and add freshness.
Vegetables: Sliced cucumbers, pickled radishes, and bean sprouts provide crunch and balance.
Chili Sauce: For those who crave a kick, chili sauce adds a fiery touch.

The roots of bun dau mam tom can be traced back to northern Vietnam ( Source: Collected)

>>> Let’s see more: Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup): A Flavorful Journey Through Vietnamese Cuisine

How to Prepare Bun Dau Mam Tom

Making the ideal Bun Dau Mam Tom is a craft combining technique with simplicity. Though it looks simple, this recipe calls for careful attention to detail to guarantee every ingredient shines. This detailed instruction will enable you to bring this delicious Vietnamese food right into your home!

1. Gather Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients for Bun Dau Mam Tom. You will need:

Rice Noodles (Bun): 200g of vermicelli noodles.
Tofu (Dau): 300g of firm tofu, cut into cubes.
Shrimp Paste (Mam Tom): 2 tablespoons (adjust according to your taste).
Fresh Herbs: A mix of mint, cilantro, and basil.
Vegetables: Sliced cucumbers, bean sprouts, and pickled vegetables (like carrots and daikon).
Chili Sauce: For added spice.
Lime: For serving.

2. Prepare the Rice Noodles:

Put a kettle of water on boil. Add the rice noodles once boiling, then cook according to package directions—usually 4 to 6 minutes until soft.
To stop the noodles from cooking, strain them in a colander under cold water. This preserves their chewy feel. Set aside.

Making the ideal Bun Dau Mam Tom is a craft combining technique with simplicity. — Making the ideal Bun Dau Mam Tom is a craft combining technique with simplicity ( Source: Collected)

3. Fry the Tofu:

Heat around three tablespoons of vegetable oil in a fry pan over medium heat while the noodles are boiling.
Once heated, place the tofu cubes one layer, being careful not to pack the pan too full.
Usually taking three to five minutes, fry the tofu until golden brown and crispy on both sides. Take out from the pan and lay on paper towels to soak extra oil.

4. Prepare the Shrimp Paste Sauce:

To make a sauce, toss the shrimp paste with lime juice, a bit of sugar, some water in a small bowl. Stirring thoroughly will help it to get a smooth consistency.
Add minced chile or chili paste to the sauce if you enjoy it spicily. Lime’s acidity balances the strong taste of the prawn paste by means of sugar’s sweetness.

5. Assemble the Dish:

Starting on a big serving platter, arrange rice noodles first.
Over the noodles, toss the crispy fried tofu chunks.
Create a striking display by liberally sprinkling fresh herbs and vegetables around the noodles and tofu.
Drizzle the whole meal with the shrimp paste sauce, being sure to divide it fairly.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Present family-style Bun Dau Mam Tom and let everyone assist themselves.
For those who like more kick, set extra lime wedges and chili sauce on the side.
Remember to tell your guests—or yourself—to stir the components before digging in! The magic occurs when all the flavors combine; every mouthful should be a wonderful concoction of noodles, tofu, herbs, and that remarkable shrimp paste sauce.

Present family-style Bun Dau Mam Tom and let everyone assist themselves. ( Source: Collected)

>>> Let’s see more: Bun thang Hanoi: Discover the Delicate Noodle Soup of Vietnam’s Capital

Where to Enjoy Bun Dau Mam Tom in Hanoi

A “superstar” in Vietnamese cuisine, bun dau mam tom is one of must-try dishes in Hanoi. Do you know, though, where to savor this special treat? Let’s investigate Hanoi’s best 12 most mouthwatering and well-known bun dau mam tom establishments.

1. Bun Dau Hàng Khay

Address: End of Alley 29 Hang Khay, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Price Range: 45,000 – 65,000 VND/serving

Traveling to Hanoi is the treasure store of well-known Hanoi specialties as much as it is about its lovely mix of modern and old beauty. Among them is the seductuous bun dau mam tom. You just cannot miss Bun Dau Co Tuyen Hàng Khay if you wish to have real bun dau mam tom in Hanoi. The golden, perfectly fried square tofu on their dish is the highlight—soft on the inside and crispy on the exterior. Thin, exquisitely presented, and with a sweet, meaty taste that is quite fulfilling are the slices of cooked pork leg.

Bun Dau Co Tuyen Hàng Khay - A Famous Bun Dau Mam Tom Spot in Hanoi — Bun Dau Co Tuyen Hàng Khay – A Famous Bun Dau Mam Tom Spot in Hanoi ( Source: Collected)

2. Bun Dau Goc Da Ngõ Gạch

Address: 4 Ngo Gach, Hang Buom Street, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Price Range: 50,000 – 110,000 VND/serving

Locals enjoy this well-known restaurant, which also will wow you. Here a full dish consists in cut bun pieces, fried tofu, grilled pork intestines, thinly sliced boiled pork leg, kom (green rice flakes), fried spring rolls, mam tom, and fresh herbs. Especially appreciated here are its chewy, solid structure and aromatic rice grains. The mam tom is really delicious, aromatic, and nicely mixed.

This beloved eatery is a favorite among locals and sure to impress you. ( Source: Collected)

3. Bun Dau Met – Dong Thai

Address: 11 Dong Thai, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Price Range: 30,000 – 50,000 VND/serving

Although Hoan Kiem Lake, Dong Xuan Market, Ta Hien Beer Street, and Bach MaTemple define Hanoi’s Old Quarter, its rich gastronomic legacy is as well-known. For bun dau mam tom in Hanoi, Bun Dau Met Dong Thai is a hot spot. Though a little roadside stand, its appeal is indisputable. Here the cuisine is renowned for its freshness; tofu is always fried to crispy excellence. Beautifully placed on a round tray lined with fresh banana leaves, the ample serving of bun consists in slices of boiled beef, liver, grilled pork intestines, mam tom, and fresh herbs.

Bun Dau Met Dong Thai is a hot spot when it comes to bun dau mam tom in Hanoi. ( Source: Collected)

4. Bun Dau Cay Da Thuy Khue – Authentic Flavor

Address: 235B Thuy Khue, Tay Ho, Hanoi
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Price Range: 10,000 – 50,000 VND/serving

Renowned for attractions including West Lake, Tran Quoc Pagoda, and water parks as well as great restaurants, Tây Hồ is a key district of Hanoi. Make sure you visit Bun Dau Cay Da in Thuy Khue if you live nearby. This location regularly makes customers happy with its reasonably priced, clean, and excellent cuisine. They also carefully offer a piece of chewing gum with every platter for patrons to savor following dinner.

This spot consistently pleases diners with its quality meals that are delicious, clean, and affordable. ( Source: Collected)

5. Bun Dau Pho Co – Thanh Cong

Address: 106 B2A Thanh Cong, Ba Dinh, Hanoi
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Price Range: 20,000 – 50,000 VND/serving

One cannot ignore Bun Dau Thanh Cong when debating bun dau mam tom in Hanoi. Here, the portions are big and hot freshly made cuisine is presented. Young foodies love the mam tom since it tastes great and gratifying. The limited space, meanwhile, can result in a packed surroundings during busy times.

The servings here are generous, with freshly prepared dishes served hot. ( Source: Collected)

6. Bun Dau Hai Anh – Delicious and Popular

Address: 40 Bui Ngoc Duong, Hai Ba Trung, Hanoi
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Price Range: 30,000 – 50,000 VND/serving

Once you have seen Hanoi’s main sights, think about stopping at Bun Dau Hai Anh in Hai Bà Trưng to refuels. Easy to locate and on one of the busiest streets in the capital, this restaurant Perfectly placed on a round tray, the bun dau here features banana leaves beneath to highlight bun, tofu, fried sour spring rolls, com, boiling pig leg, cucumbers, and fresh herbs. Both the taste and the presentation are quite pleasing.

After exploring the central attractions of Hanoi, consider stopping by Bun Dau Hai Anh in Hai Bà Trưng to refuel. After exploring the central attractions of Hanoi, consider stopping by Bun Dau Hai Anh in Hai Bà Trưng to refuel. — After exploring the central attractions of Hanoi, consider stopping by Bun Dau Hai Anh in Hai Bà Trưng to refuel. ( Source: Collected)

7. Bun Dau Mam Tom Hanoi at Quan Ngon Nha Ham

Address: 6D Hang Chao Alley, Hanoi
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Price Range: 20,000 – 100,000 VND/serving

Previously housed at 29 Hàng Khay, Quan Bun Dau Nha Ham now resides at Hàng Cháo. This reasonably priced venue presents a neat but comfortable setting. Familiar meals such fried tofu, com, fried pork intestines, and boiled meat abound; the notable difference is the use of hến (small clams) instead of the typical cut rice noodle. Free parking and a cool air-conditioned environment abound for visitors to Nha Ham.

You’ll find familiar dishes like fried tofu, com, fried pork intestines, and boiled meat ( Source: Collected)

8. Bun Dau Nghia Tan

Address:104 C3, Nghia Tan Street, Cau Giay, Hanoi
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Price Range: 15,000 – 44,000 VND/serving

Bun Dau Nghia Tan is fairly striking and easily found. The cuisine is made right outside so visitors may see the cooking process and change their orders. With a little of fried tofu fat, a squeeze of lime or calamansi, and a good stir to produce a foamy texture, the mam tom here is seasoned to fit Northern tastes.

The food is prepared right outside, allowing guests to see the cooking process and customize their orders. ( Source: Collected)

9. Bun Dau Thanh Hang Ma May

Address: 6 Ma May Street, Hang Buom, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Price Range: 50,000 – 80,000 VND/serving

Popular weekend get-away in Hanoi is Hoan Kiem, and 6 Ma May boasts some of the tastiest bun dau available. Every meal is presented meticulously on separate dishes. Here especially the boiling tongue and com are highly praised.

6 Ma May is home to some of the best bun dau around. ( Source: Collected)

10. Bun Dau Mam Tom Cay Bang

Address: 29 Alley 29 Hang Khay, Hanoi
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Price Range: 40,000 – 45,000 VND/serving

One well-known bun dau mam tom restaurant on Trần Đại Nghĩa Street can quickly pique your appetite. Particularly during midday, Bun Dau Cay Bang can get really packed; some visitors have to eat on the pavement. Fresh, clean ingredients, well blended mam tom, and plenty of toppings to suit a broad spectrum of tastes help to justify the price.

The quality justifies the price, with fresh, clean ingredients, expertly blended mam tom ( Source: Collected)

11. Bun Dau Long Nuong in Hoang Cau Area

Address: 21, Lane 16 Hoang Cau, Dong Da, Hanoi
Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 2:00 PM
Price Range: 20,000 – 50,000 VND/serving

Locals and supporters of this unusual cuisine know Bun Dau Long Nuong in Hoang Cau rather well. Operating on the pavement, the stall constantly has a clean and airy surroundings. Services are courteous and quick. Customizing requests might come from missing the mam tom, not fried tofu too crispy, or adding more herbs during cooking. They also present a mouthwatering bun giả cầy, or imitation trotter for pigs.

Bun Dau Long Nuong in Hoang Cau is no stranger to locals and fans of this unique dish ( Source: Collected)

12. Bun Dau Dong Que in Cau Giay

Address: 6 Alley 76 Mai Dich, Cau Giay, Hanoi
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Price Range: 15,000 – 35,000 VND/serving

Though it’s easy to spot, Bun Dau Dong Que is in a little lane, which could provide some challenges. Though its name suggests otherwise, the restaurant has a modern and exquisitely furnished inside. Usually humming with patrons, you should expect a wait for your dinner. Still, the food is regularly crunchy and spicy. A basic bun dau mam tom here starts at 18,000 VND, including tofu and bun; additional toppings are cost extra.

The food here is consistently hot and crispy. ( Source: Collected)

Bun dau mam tom is a vivid statement of Vietnamese food and culture, not only a meal. It provides a special gastronomic experience that should not be missed from its rich history to the pleasing mix of flavors and textures. Whether you’re cooking it at home or dining at a nearby restaurant, bun dau mam tom is likely to leave a memorable mark.

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