Mixed rice paper, a must-have snack in Saigon’s culinary culture, has won the hearts of many food lovers with its unique taste and simple preparation. Made from easily accessible ingredients, this dish not only satisfies the taste buds but also brings back memorable moments on the bustling streets. Let’s get started and experience the joy of making this famous street food right at home!
1. Saigon mixed rice paper: a street food specialty “once tasted, you can’t stop”
Among the many unique snacks in Saigon, mixed rice paper stands out with its simple preparation but irresistibly appealing flavor, especially loved by the youth. Although there are many variations, such as mixed rice paper with dried beef, butter rice paper, satay rice paper, or Tay Ninh-style mixed rice paper, Saigon mixed rice paper has its own distinctive flavor that you can’t find anywhere else.
A standard serving of mixed rice paper is typically made from sun-dried rice paper, cut into small, even strips. The ingredients are skillfully mixed, including shredded green mango, finely chopped Vietnamese coriander, and special toppings such as dried beef, wet beef, boiled quail eggs, dried shrimp, fried onions, and peanuts. The rich and unique flavor makes it hard to stop eating, creating an “addictive” culinary experience.
Sitting by a corner in Saigon, in front of humble eateries, and enjoying mixed rice paper is a truly delightful experience. However, we don’t always have the chance to visit this “food paradise.” So, why not learn how to make Saigon mixed rice paper at home, quick and easy? Let’s explore the recipe below and enjoy this special snack in your own space.
2. Tips for storing mixed rice paper to keep it crispy overnight
Guidelines for storing mixed rice paper to preserve its flavor: After making mixed rice paper yourself, many people wonder how to store it. To keep the flavor and quality of mixed rice paper, here are some important tips you should keep in mind:
- Avoid refrigerating: Don’t store mixed rice paper in the fridge, as the low temperature can dry it out and lose its original taste.
- Seal the product: Make sure the dish is tightly sealed to prevent insects and keep the rice paper clean.
- Store in a dry, cool place: Place the mixed rice paper in a clean, dry area to avoid dust and ensure the dish stays fresh when enjoyed.
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3. How to make mixed rice paper
Preparing ingredients:
- First, use scissors to cut the rice paper into bite-sized strips.
- Next, prepare the ingredients: shred the dried beef, remove the stems of the Vietnamese coriander, wash and finely chop it. Peel and thinly slice the shallots. Don’t forget to peel and shred the green mango.
- Heat 100 ml of cooking oil in a deep pan until it begins to shimmer. Add the shallots and reduce the heat, stirring gently until they turn golden, then turn off the heat and drain.
- Boil the quail eggs for about 10 minutes, then place them in cold water to make peeling easier once cooled.
- Roast the peanuts on low heat until their shells crack. Once cooled, gently rub to remove the skin.
- Heat half a cup of oil in a pan, add crushed chili, and bring it to a boil, then turn off the heat and let it cool to create a satay mixture.
Mixing the rice paper:
- Once all the ingredients are prepared, take a large bowl, and add the rice paper, dried beef, shredded pork, satay, peanuts, fried shallots, mango, and quail eggs. Mix everything well to blend the flavors.
- Finally, serve the mixed rice paper on a plate and enjoy immediately.
Notes:
- Choose thin rice paper for better flavor.
- Eat the mixed rice paper immediately to maintain its crispness.
- Ensure the right amount of satay so the rice paper doesn’t get soggy or clump together.
- You can adjust the type of salt according to your taste preference.
4. Top 5 best mixed rice paper places in saigon you must try
4.1. Chu Vien mixed rice paper
Address: 38 Nguyen Thuong Hien, Ward 5, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
When talking about the “best mixed rice paper in Saigon,” Chu Vien’s shop cannot be missed. Though it is a small, humble place, the rice paper here has become a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The highlight of this snack is the unique sauce, rich and different, offering a one-of-a-kind culinary experience. Each serving of mixed rice paper costs about 20,000 VND and is filled with high-quality ingredients like dried beef, dried squid, boiled and fried quail eggs, sour mango, peanuts, Vietnamese coriander, and shrimp salt. The delicious taste and variety of ingredients have made Chu Vien’s mixed rice paper a favorite among many food lovers.
4.2. Co Nam mixed rice paper
Address: 58 Le Thi Hong, Ward 17, Go Vap District, Ho Chi Minh City
Co Nam’s mixed rice paper shop stands out in Saigon for its secret, exceptional mixing sauce and the owner’s friendly and humorous personality. Here, customers can choose between two types of rice paper: pre-mixed or DIY kits to mix at home. Each serving comes neatly packaged with all the ingredients and gloves, ensuring cleanliness and convenience. With its delicious flavor and attentive service, it’s no surprise that Co Nam’s shop always has a line of customers eager to taste this specialty.
4.3. Co Long mixed rice paper
Address: 34 Nguyen Thupng Hien, Ward 5, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
Located near Chu Vien’s famous shop, Co Long’s mixed rice paper shop offers a great alternative for those who can’t wait in line. Many customers, eager to try the dish, end up falling in love with the flavors here. The quality is just as good as Chu Vien’s, making it a great choice for those who want to explore more varieties of this snack.
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4.4. Nhat Quynh mixed rice paper
Address: 168/15 Le Thi Bach Cat, Ward 11, District 11, Ho Chi Minh City
In the Ho Thi Ky flower market area, Nhật Quỳnh’s mixed rice paper shop has become a famous destination attracting many visitors. Here, customers can enjoy not only the classic mixed rice paper but also tempting variations such as salted rice paper, butter rice paper, dipping rice paper, and Long An-style rice paper. The rice paper at Nhật Quỳnh stands out with its perfect balance of flavors, with rich butter sauce adding to the irresistible taste. The generous servings of quail eggs, butter, and fried shallots make for a rich culinary experience.
4.5. Ho Con Rua mixed rice paper
Address: Ho Con Rua, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
One of the delightful experiences for visitors to Saigon is strolling around Ho Con Rua and enjoying famous street snacks. Here, you’ll find a mixed rice paper cart run by a somewhat “picky” but very charming owner. With skilled rice paper mixing, the food here will surely impress you. For just 15,000 to 20,000 VND, you’ll get a generous serving filled with tempting ingredients like shrimp salt, dried shrimp, fried shallots, sugar-coated dried squid, dried beef, and fermented pork rolls, creating a distinctive and unforgettable flavor. If you have the chance, stop by and enjoy the lively atmosphere along with these delicious street snacks.
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It’s no exaggeration to say that Saigon is a “paradise” for street food. If you ever visit this city, don’t miss the chance to visit these famous mixed rice paper shops. Here, you’ll experience the rustic, authentic, and warm-hearted flavors of this friendly land. Let Saigon captivate you with its distinctive dishes and vibrant atmosphere!
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