Dinner in a Vietnamese Home

Our friend’s Bruce and a Nga who live in Ho Chi Minh City invited us to their wedding. Nga promised to cook for us when we were in Vietnam.

A few days after the wedding, we were invited to their home for dinner. Nga and her sister Anh made the following and memorable and authentic Vietnamese dishes;

– Gà Bó Xôi ( chicken in sticky rice – aka “No escape chicken”)

– S??n n??ng ng? v? (Honey five-spice short ribs)

– Canh kh? Qua ( the bitter gourd stuffed with ground pork and wood ears mushrooms)

– S??n n?u ??u (Rib stew in coconut water and beans)

– Bánh xèo ( pancake)

– Cánh gà s?t cay (Sweet and spicy wings)

– Stir fried cauliflower and pumpkin flowers with soy sauce and oysters sauce.

Each were unique in flavor, appearance and cooking technique. I love the quote that states, “Cooking is Love Made Visible.” We felt the love in each dish prepared for us. We were so thankful for the opportunity to come to Vietnam and learn more about the country and culture.

The late American Chef Anthony Bourdain had a love affair with Vietnam. I love his quote about Vietnam.

“Vietnam. It grabs you and doesn’t let you go. Once you love it, you love it forever.” – Anthony Bourdain

This is how Valarie and I feel about Vietnam. We will love it forever. The people, food and culture. All the senses are truly engaged here.

We are so thankful that Bruce and Nga’s wedding was the catalyst that brought us to Vietnam together as a couple, as I was here once before to meet up with Bruce on a business trip.

We look forward to future visits to Vietnam. We are also excited about Bruce and Nga visiting us in Pennsylvania. Until we see each other again, we will cherish the memories we shared during this trip. ??????