Vietnamese rice bowls are a vibrant, flavor-packed adventure in every bite. They bring together fragrant jasmine rice, crisp vegetables, and a symphony of umami-rich sauces, topped with your protein of choice. Inspired by the bustling street markets of Hanoi, this dish balances bold flavors with fresh, clean ingredients—comfort food with a global twist.
Surprisingly versatile, these bowls pair beautifully with unexpected companions like Whitefish Salad and Italian Keto Antipasto Salad. The bright, herbaceous notes of Vietnamese cuisine contrast and complement the briny, creamy, and savory elements of these side dishes.
Whether you’re meal-prepping or crafting a casual dinner spread, these combinations create a well-rounded and deeply satisfying experience. This recipe is an open invitation to explore layering flavors and textures like a chef.
Marinate your protein for extra depth, use quick-pickled veggies for tangy crunch, or experiment with different regional sauces. The beauty of Vietnamese rice bowls is in their adaptability—once you master the basics, the possibilities are endless.
Perfect for Vibrant Summer Meals!
- Bursting with Freshness – Crisp veggies, fragrant herbs, and light dressings make this dish perfect for warm-weather dining.
- Customizable for Any Diet – Whether you go classic with lemongrass chicken or keep it plant-based, this bowl adapts to your needs.
- Balanced & Nourishing – With rice for energy, protein for strength, and veggies for vitamins, it’s a complete, wholesome meal.
- Meal Prep Friendly – Cook everything ahead, store separately, and assemble in minutes for effortless weekday meals.
- So Good, You’ll Crave It – The balance of sweet, savory, tangy, and umami flavors keeps you coming back for more.
Vietnamese Rice Bowls Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
Meat Preparation
- 1½ lb ground chicken or ground pork
- spicy mayo, for serving
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 4 cups cooked rice, for serving
- 1 cup shredded or pickled carrots
- 3 tbsp chili paste
- ⅓ cup pickled ginger
- 2 tbsp sesame or olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped
- 2 shallots, chopped
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- ½ cup tamari
Cucumber Herb Salad
- 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 cup mixed fresh herbs, chopped
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 Serrano or jalapeño pepper, seeded and sliced
- 2 Persian cucumbers, chopped
- 1 avocado, cubed
- 3 tbsp mixed sesame seeds and peanuts
Instructions
- To prepare the salad, mix all the ingredients in a bowl, tossing gently, and season with salt.
- For the meat, combine tamari, fish sauce, chili paste, maple syrup, and 1/3 cup water in a bowl, reserving a few tablespoons of sauce for serving if desired.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the meat, shallots, and garlic, breaking up the meat as it cooks until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the sauce and continue cooking for another 5 minutes until the meat turns crispy.
- Then stir in pickled ginger and cook for another minute before removing from heat.
- To assemble, spoon the crispy meat over bowls of rice, topping with the herb salad.
Notes
- For extra crunch, add crushed peanuts or crispy shallots before serving.
- Use ground chicken, turkey, or tofu as a substitute for the meat.
- Pickled ginger adds a subtle sweetness and zing, but you can replace it with fresh ginger for a sharper bite.
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 600kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 60g |
| Fibre | 6g |
| Fat | 27g |
| Protein | 35g |
Variations To Help You Customise This Dish!
- Protein Swap – Use ground turkey, beef, or even crumbled tofu for a different take. For a plant-based version, try lentils or tempeh.
- Spice Level – Adjust the heat by adding more or less chili paste, swapping in Thai chilies, or using sriracha instead.
- Rice Alternatives – Serve over quinoa, cauliflower rice, rice noodles, or even inside lettuce wraps for a lighter version.
- Extra Crunch – Toss in crushed peanuts, crispy shallots, or fried garlic for extra texture.
- Different Herbs – Swap out herbs based on preference—use Thai basil, mint, cilantro, or scallions for a fresh burst of flavor.
