Traditional Dishes You Must Try In Cao Bang

When visiting Cao Bang, it’s not just the mountains, waterfalls, and caves that leave an impression — it’s also the flavors of the region. The province’s cuisine is shaped by its ethnic diversity, highland geography, and a deep-rooted respect for tradition. Each dish is a reflection of the people and the land: simple yet rich, humble yet unforgettable. Here are some must-try traditional dishes that will take your taste buds on a journey through Cao Bằng’s unique culinary landscape.

1. Banh Cuon Trung – Steamed Rice Rolls with Eggs

Unlike the southern version of banh cuon, Banh Cuon Trung in Cao Bang is served hot with an aromatic bone broth rather than dipping sauce. Thin rice sheets are steamed and rolled with a freshly cracked egg inside, creating a soft and silky texture. Topped with minced pork and fried shallots, and often accompanied by Vietnamese pork sausage (cha lua), this dish is a comforting, satisfying breakfast or light lunch.

2. Lap Suon – Smokey Mountain Sausage

Lap suon is a beloved specialty of the Tay and Nung ethnic groups in the northern highlands. These smokey sausages are made with finely chopped pork, marinated in local spices such as star anise, honey, and wine, then naturally dried over wood smoke. The result? A rich, slightly chewy sausage with deep flavor and a hint of sweetness. It’s especially popular during Lunar New Year, but visitors can find it year-round in local markets and eateries.

3. Pho Chua Cao Bang – Sour Pho

Unique to the region, Pho chua (literally “sour pho”) is a refreshing cold noodle dish unlike any other in Vietnam. Made with flat rice noodles, slices of boiled pork, roasted duck or sausage, and crispy fried sweet potatoes, it’s tossed in a special sauce made from vinegar, sugar, garlic, and chili. The balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy makes this dish an explosion of flavor — perfect for hot weather or adventurous eaters.

4. Men Men – Steamed Cornmeal

For the H’Mong communities in Cao Bang, mèn mén is more than a dish — it’s a way of life. Made by steaming finely ground corn flour in bamboo baskets, this dense, slightly sweet dish is often served with boiled vegetables, fatty pork, or soup. In remote mountain villages, mèn mén is a daily staple, reflecting the resilience and self-sufficiency of the people who live close to the land.

In short, the cuisine in Cao Bang is a delicious invitation into the lives and traditions of its people. Whether you’re dining at a roadside stall, sharing a meal in a stilt house, or shopping at a local market, each bite tells a story of survival, creativity, and cultural pride. Just come hungry and try, those dishes won’t make you disappointed 😉