Hoi An Noodles (Cao Lau)

Originating from the charming town of Hoi An, Cao Lau is a unique and flavorful dish that captures the essence of the region. The specialty of Cao Lau is the signature flat rice noodles. These noodles are different from typical rice noodles, as they are soaked in water from a specific well in Hoi An, giving them a distinctive texture and flavor. This well water is believed to be a key secret to the dish, making the noodles truly special.

A bowl of Cao Lau comes with steamed rice noodles, bean sprouts, thinly sliced roasted pork, and croutons prepared with the same ingredients as the noodles. There's also a small amount of savory stock. Cao Lau stands out because it has crispy rice crackers on top that make a delightful crunch. These rice crackers are made from rice paper, giving them a unique and satisfying crispiness.

To bring all the flavors together, Cao Lau is typically served with a savory broth made from pork and local herbs. When you pour this broth over the noodles, it doesn't just make them more flavorful; it also brings all the parts of the dish together in a perfect harmony of taste. The delicious broth not only complements the noodles but also adds an extra layer of depth to the succulent pork, fresh herbs, and crispy rice crackers.

Main ingredients: rice noodles, pork, greens and herbs, bean sprouts, garlic, onions, soy sauce, Cao Lau broth

Recommended places: Nguyen Hue in Hoi An, Vietnam

Price range: 30,000 VND – 50,000 VND/bowl (about $1.23 - $2)