VietNamNet Bridge – For most people, the name Hoi An conjures images of lanterns and cao lau (noodle). Little do they know that the ancient town of Hoi An also features very delicious banh mi (snadwich) and tao pho (soybean pudding).

Hoi An’s bread is as small as three fingers, about 20 cm long. It is toasted before being having meat and other items added. And while crispy on the outside, it is soft on the inside.

The sandwich stuffing consists of a brown and very thick tasty sauce, several slices of roast pork and lap xuong (Chinese sausage), a little homemade pate, a few slices of cucumber and coriander, chilli and black pepper.

A Hoi An sandwich is very cheap, only VND5,000 to VND8,000 (20 to 40 cents).

On any summer morning, strolling the streets of the ancient town, visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, free of the sounds of motorcycle engines or the bustle of markets. There is only the music emanating from radios and the occasional vendor shouting “tao pho" (soybean pudding).

Hoi An’s soybean pudding, like the banh mi, is another a favorite cuisine of tourists. It is cooked with spicy ginger. Sugar is added. There are several pieces of black and white agar and ice. A small bowl of soybean pudding can help ease the heat of Hoi An at noon.

Only Hoi An residents are allowed to sell goods in the evening. During the day, vendors come from other areas.

Pha Le