Vietnamese and Chinese food are often thought of interchangeably in the U.S.; however, they each delight the senses with their own unique flavors and aromas. Both of these Asian cuisines use similar ingredients, such as rice, but there are a few noticeable differences to familiarize yourself with. Learn more about the similarities and differences between Chinese and Vietnamese food with this helpful guide.

Chinese Food

Many traditional Chinese dishes have been “Americanized”; however, authentic recipes often feature dark meat and heavy soy-based sauces that balance saltiness and savoriness. Chinese food also features bold ingredients like cloves, chili peppers, and garlic to create flavorful results.

Popular dishes include sweet and sour pork, spring rolls, and Kung Pao chicken. The pork dish features a tangy sauce that often includes pineapples. Spring rolls are fried potato pancakes rolled and stuffed with beans or vegetables. Kung Pao chicken features diced chicken combined with peppers, peanuts, cucumber, and assorted spices to give it a kick.

Vietnamese Food

While Chinese food is typically served with the spices baked in, Vietnamese recipes often add the spices after cooking. Since Vietnam is a tropical country, the food features more fresh ingredients such as cilantro and lemon, and fewer sauces. Northern Vietnamese food has a salty flavor due to the influence of Chinese cuisine, while Southern Vietnamese fare tends to be sweeter.

Common dishes include Banh mi, a baguette sandwich with greens and flavored beef or pork, and pho, the country’s national dish. Pho is a noodle soup made with beef or chicken broth, coriander, and ginger. Chicken, beef, or pork strips are typically added to the soup.

Similar Dishes

Chinese and Vietnamese food share similar ingredients, including fresh ginger, white and brown rice, and chili sauce. They also have a few dishes in common, such as egg rolls. Both kinds of rolls are fried, though Chinese egg rolls generally feature carrots, pork, and cabbage while Vietnamese egg rolls feature carrots, bean thread noodles, and wood ear mushrooms.

Other dishes with commonalities include noodle soup, though Chinese soups are served with darker broth than Vietnamese soups, which are known for clear bone broth.

Try the unique flavors of both Vietnamese and Chinese food at Me Lyng Restaurant in West Homestead, PA. This authentic Asian restaurant is open for lunch, dinner, and takeout, and offers an extensive menu full of delectable cuisine. Call (412) 464-1477 to place an order or review the menu online.