Vietnamese cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients, complex flavors, and crave-worthy aromas. One key ingredient featured in Vietnamese restaurants is vermicelli noodles. If you're curious about this item and why it's become such a staple in Asian cooking, here's a list of frequently asked questions to review. 

What You Need to Know About Vermicelli Noodles

What are vermicelli noodles?

Vermicelli noodles are made of rice flour and water. They are thin noodles that one might compare to angel hair pasta in Italian cooking. In fact, vermicelli is an Italian word that translates to "little worms." The moniker is meant to describe the long, thin appearance of these noodles. 

How is vermicelli different from other rice noodles?

Rice noodles are seen in various shapes and sizes, particularly in Asian restaurants. Wide, flat rice noodles are used in Thai food and popular dishes like Pad See Ew. Some Vietnamese restaurants oscillate between vermicelli or wider rice noodles in soups. While vermicelli will have the same rice flour and water base, the primary distinction is the long, thin structure.  

What are the benefits of eating vermicelli?

Vermicelli is a popular noodle because it's gluten-free, unlike some traditional kinds of pasta made from millet flour, and can be enjoyed by individuals with sensitivities. It also happens to be fat-free, sugar-free, and vegan. When combined with fresh vegetables and lean proteins, vermicelli noodles make for a satisfying and healthy meal that aligns with various dietary restrictions. 

How are they used in Vietnamese cuisine?

Several popular dishes in Vietnamese cuisine feature vermicelli noodles. Pho is a signature soup, often made with beef or chicken broth base, that includes vermicelli noodles, pieces of protein, basil, green onions, lime, and bean sprouts. When you're looking for a noodle dish without broth, you can order bún, which features vermicelli noodles, with your favorite grilled protein, and egg rolls. Bún is garnished with peanuts, bean sprouts, green onion, fresh cucumber, carrots, lettuce, and fish sauce called nước chấm. You can also find these noodles in fresh spring rolls combined with cucumber, cilantro, mint, and protein wrapped in rice paper. 

If you're craving authentic Vietnamese cuisine featuring perfectly cooked vermicelli noodles, Pho' Vietnam is the perfect place to dine. With four locations across Anchorage, AK, this Vietnamese restaurant has served delicious lunch and dinner made with fresh ingredients since 2008. To place a carry-out order, call today at (907) 929-9938. To browse their menu of tasty signature dishes, visit their website.