First, we'd like to congratulate Bun Dau Mam Tom's lover in New York City. There is a Bun Dau Mam Tom restaurant called "Mam" ranked 26th in the 100 best restaurants in New York City in 2023. "Mam" has received lots of praise recently and is said to have an original taste from Vietnam with homemade Dau Ran (fried tofu) and Cha Com (Fried Pork Paste with Young Green Sticky Rice).

1. History of Bun Dau Mam Tom

According to the stories passed down by the older generation in Hanoi, the origins of Bun Dau Mam Tom can be traced back to the countryside. It started as a simple dish prepared by rural families, consisting of only rice vermicelli noodles, fried tofu, and a few raw vegetables, served as a convenient meal option for the family. As people discovered the delicious and unique flavors of the dish, it gained popularity, prompting entrepreneurial women to set up makeshift street stalls and sell it throughout the streets and alleys, from the beginning of summer until the end of the alley.

During that time, setting up a Bun Dau Mam Tom stall required minimal effort. All that was needed were two large baskets containing all the necessary ingredients, accompanied by a few small stools for customers to sit on. The simplicity of the setup allowed these enterprising women to bring this beloved dish to the masses without much difficulty.

2. The components of Bun Dau Mam Tom

At its core, Bun Dau Mam Tom consists of three main components: Bun (rice vermicelli noodles), Dau Ran (fried tofu), and Mam Tom (fermented shrimp paste). The dish is typically accompanied by an array of cucumber and fresh herbs such as kinh gioi (Vietnamese balm) and tia to (perilla). This harmonious combination of flavors and textures creates a delightful balance that is both savory and refreshing.

Nowadays, Bun Dau Mam Tom has evolved to include even more delectable additions to elevate the dining experience. In addition to the traditional components, you'll often find a delightful array of additional accompaniments. Let's explore some of the popular additions that have found their way onto the Bun Dau Mam Tom platter.

Cha Com (Fried Pork Paste with Young Green Sticky Rice): This flavorful and fragrant delicacy is made by grilling a mixture of pork paste and young green sticky rice wrapped in fragrant lotus leaves. The result is a crispy and savory cake that adds a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor to your Bun Dau Mam Tom ensemble.

Doi Ran (Fried Pork Sausage): The succulent fried pork sausage, known as Doi Ran, is a common addition to Bun Dau Mam Tom. The combination of the blood and pork intestine, seasoned with aromatic spices, and the vibrant flavors of the other ingredients creates a symphony of tastes that will leave you wanting more.

Thit Luoc (Poached Pork): Thit Luoc refers to tender, thinly sliced poached pork that is served cold. The delicate texture and mild flavor of the poached pork complement the boldness of the other elements in Bun Dau Mam Tom, providing a delightful contrast and balance to the dish.

Nem Ran (Fried Spring Rolls): Adding a crispy and savory element to the mix, Nem Ran, or Vietnamese fried spring rolls, are often included as a tasty option. These golden delights are filled with a mixture of minced pork, vegetables, and aromatic spices, and when dipped into the mam tom sauce, they add a burst of flavor to each bite.

Long Ran (Fried Intestines): For the more adventurous eaters, Long Ran, or fried intestines, make for an intriguing addition. When properly prepared, the intestines take on a crispy texture and a unique flavor that adds depth to the overall taste experience of Bun Dau Mam Tom.

Many restaurants and food stalls selling Bun Dau Mam Tom also have bubble gum for people to chew after they eat Mam Tom for fresh breath. What a subtle act, right?

With these additional components, Bun Dau Mam Tom becomes a truly indulgent feast, bursting with flavors and textures that will keep your taste buds dancing.

3. The Art of Eating Bun Dau Mam Tom

To truly savor the flavors of Bun Dau Mam Tom, it is essential to master the art of eating it. The process involves assembling a bite-sized morsel using a variety of ingredients. Take a handful of fresh herbs and eat them with Bun, fried tofu and other ingredients. Dip this bundle into the pungent Mam Tom. The explosion of flavors and textures in each bite is truly a gastronomic delight. For Mam Tom, you can add kumquat or lime juice, sliced chilli or sugar based on your preferences.

Moreover, even when the name Bun Dau Mam Tom contains Mam Tom, people can also eat it with Nuoc Mam (fish sauce) or Nuoc Tuong (soy sauce). However, this is a controversial (and fun) topic in Vietnam when Vietnamese who don't eat Bun Dau with Mam Tom are called "weird".

4. Tips for Enjoying Bun Dau Mam Tom

Embrace the pungent aroma: Mam tom has a distinct smell that might be intense for some, but do not let it deter you. The taste is far more subtle and complex than the aroma suggests.

Share the experience: Bun Dau Mam Tom is best enjoyed with friends or family, as it encourages a communal dining experience and allows for sharing different combinations and techniques.

5. Where to find tasty Bun Dau Mam Tom in Vietnam?

A tasty Bun Dau Mam Tom restaurant or food stall in Vietnam is often in a vibrant and bustling place, filled with the enticing aromas of freshly prepared ingredients. These establishments are often found along busy streets, in local markets, or even tucked away in narrow alleyways, attracting both locals and tourists with their delicious offerings. For example, there are many Bun Dau Mam Tom vendors in Hanoi Old Quarter.

At a Bun Dau Mam Tom restaurant, you can expect a bustling atmosphere, with locals and visitors gathering around small tables or plastic stools. The menu will typically feature various options to customize your meal, allowing you to choose from an array of accompanying meats and side dishes. A typical Bun Dau Mam Tom dining experience is not just about the food; it's also about the lively ambiance and the sense of community that surrounds it. You'll often find locals engaged in animated conversations, sharing laughter and stories while enjoying their meals. It's a place where people gather to savor the authentic flavors of Vietnam, immerse themselves in the vibrant street food culture, and create lasting memories.

6. Book a Local Buddy to savor the best Bun Dau Mam Tom in Vietnam

If you're a traveler eager to explore the vibrant culinary scene of Vietnam, a Local Buddy can enhance your Bun Dau Mam Tom experience and provide invaluable insights. A Local Buddy is a knowledgeable and passionate local guide who can accompany you to the best Bun Dau Mam Tom restaurants or food stalls and other delicious dishes in Vietnam such as Pho, ensuring you discover the most authentic and tasty dishes. With their expertise, you'll not only enjoy a delicious meal but also gain a deeper understanding of the local food culture. A Local Buddy can also customize your culinary adventure, taking into account your preferences, dietary restrictions, and budget, to create a truly memorable and personalized experience.

Bun Dau Mam Tom is a culinary masterpiece that showcases the rich tapestry of flavors in Vietnamese cuisine. From its humble beginnings to its widespread popularity, this dish is a testament to the country's gastronomic heritage. So, if you find yourself in Vietnam, be sure to seek out this delightful culinary experience and embark on a journey of taste and tradition. Get ready to tantalize your senses and embrace the unique flavors of Bun Dau Mam Tom.

TUBUDD - THE LOCAL POINT OF VIEW

➖ Email: [email protected] or [email protected]

➖ Instagram: @yourtubudd

➖ Tiktok: @yourtubudd_

➖ Hotline: +84 896 684 588

Our services included:

➖ Local buddies: https://www.facebook.com/tubudd

➖ Visa: https://www.facebook.com/tubuddvisa/

➖ Transportation

👉 Find us on