Known for its crispy, golden crust and flavorful vermicelli filling, this unique dish has become a must-try for both locals and visitors.

Unlike traditional banh my (Vietnamese bread or sandwich), banh my mien (vermicelli bread) features a filling of stir-fried vermicelli, eggs, and wood ear mushrooms instead of the usual grilled meat, pate, or sausage. This unusual combination has captivated many, offering a delicious twist on a common breakfast staple.

Ms. Ha, the owner of a long-standing bread shop on Le Hong Phong Street, has been serving this specialty for over 20 years. Her idea of combining different ingredients to create a more appealing dish stemmed from her love of fried bread. Over time, word spread, and vermicelli bread gained popularity.

Ha explains that making delicious vermicelli bread requires skill in both the filling and the crust. The filling includes vermicelli, finely chopped wood ear mushrooms, eggs, and bean sprouts, mixed in appropriate proportions and stir-fried to ensure the vermicelli remains tender but not mushy.

The vermicelli is first cut into small pieces, soaked in cold water to soften, blanched in boiling water, and then soaked in cold water again to prevent sticking. A little oil is added during stir-frying to keep the strands separate.

The bread's crust is equally important. Instead of baking, the bread is dipped in diluted sugar water and fried in hot oil until crispy and golden on both sides. This method gives the bread a beautiful color and a slightly sweet, aromatic, and crispy texture.

The unique combination of a crispy crust and a soft, flavorful vermicelli filling has made vermicelli bread a hit among both locals and visitors. Thu Ha, a student from Hanoi, initially skeptical, was won over by its unique taste.

"People usually think vermicelli is only used in soups, but when combined with bread, it creates a unique and delicious dish. The crispy bread crust, soft vermicelli filling, and rich flavors make it very addictive," she said.

Hong Anh, a visitor from Hai Phong, finds the wait worthwhile every time she visits Hai Duong. "I was so impressed with this unique bread that I tried it in several other cities, but none matched the taste and authenticity of Hai Duong's vermicelli bread," she remarked.

Visitors to Hai Duong City can visit Ms. Ha's bread shop on Le Hong Phong Street, near the Pham Ngu Lao turn and close to Ly Tu Trong Primary School. The shop opens from 6 AM and usually sells out by 10 AM. Each vermicelli bread costs VND 15,000, while fried bread without filling is VND 7,000.