pho logo

Breaking the Fast: What to Eat in Traditional Vietnamese Restaurants During Ramadan

Breaking the Fast: What to Eat in Traditional Vietnamese Restaurants During Ramadan

After a long day of fasting, the first meal of the evening is crucial. You need something that hydrates your body, restores your energy, and satisfies your hunger—without making you feel too full or sluggish. Many people look for dishes that are packed with nutrients but also easy on the stomach.

This is why Vietnamese foods this Ramadan are a great option. Vietnamese cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients, flavourful broths, and balanced meals. Whether you’re looking for a light start or a hearty dish, there’s something for everyone in a traditional Vietnamese restaurant.

Why Vietnamese Foods This Ramadan are a Perfect Choice

Vietnamese dishes are light yet packed with nutrients, making them an excellent choice after fasting. Many dishes include broth, fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and fragrant herbs, which help with hydration and digestion.

The combination of fresh flavours and healthy ingredients means you won’t feel too heavy after eating, allowing you to continue with prayers and evening activities comfortably. Here are some of the best Vietnamese foods this Ramadan that you should try for Iftar.

1. Pho – A Nourishing and Hydrating Start

Pho is a staple of Vietnamese cuisine. This light but filling noodle soup is made with a flavorful broth, rice noodles, and either beef or chicken. Slow-cooked for hours, the broth is rich in nutrients and easy to digest after a long day of fasting.

One of the best versions to try is the Super Tempura Pho. This dish combines the comforting warmth of traditional pho with crispy Japanese-style tempura, adding a delightful crunch to every bite. If you’re looking for a Vietnamese Pho dining experience in Abu Dhabi, Pho7 is your spot for authentic bowls of this delicious dish.

2. Golden Tempura BBQ Vermicelli – A Perfect Balance of Crunch and Softness

For those who prefer something a little more textured, Golden Tempura BBQ Vermicelli (Bún thịt nướng Tempura cách điệu) is a must-try. This fusion dish pairs super tempura with soft, delicate vermicelli noodles. The contrast of textures—light and crunchy tempura combined with tender noodles—makes every bite exciting.

The dish is tossed in a savoury sauce and includes vegetables and shrimp, making it a balanced meal that is filling yet not too heavy. If you’re looking for Vietnamese foods this Ramadan that offer a mix of crispiness and softness, this is a fantastic option.

3. Gỏi Cuốn – Fresh Spring Rolls for a Light Start

Spring rolls are one of the lightest ways to break your fast. Vietnamese fresh spring rolls, or gỏi cuốn, are made with rice paper and filled with shrimp, fresh herbs, vermicelli noodles, and sometimes tofu or beef.

They are served with a delicious peanut or hoisin sauce, giving them a slightly sweet and savoury taste. Since they are not fried, they are easy to digest and a great way to reintroduce food to your body after fasting.

4. Bánh Mì – A Flavorful and Satisfying Sandwich

If you’re craving something hearty but not overwhelming, bánh mì is a fantastic option. This Vietnamese sandwich features a crispy baguette filled with grilled meat, pickled vegetables, and a flavourful sauce.

The mix of textures—from the crunch of the bread to the softness of the meat—makes it incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to eat if you’re on the go or breaking your fast at a friend’s gathering.

5. Xỗi xoài – Mango Sticky Rice 

For those with a sweet tooth, Xỗi xoài is a wonderful way to end the meal. This Vietnamese dessert is made with coconut milk, sticky rice, and sweet ripe mango. It can be served warm or cold, making it a refreshing treat after Iftar.

Since fasting can lower blood sugar levels, having a naturally sweet dessert like Xỗi xoài can help restore energy without feeling too heavy.

Hydrating Vietnamese Drinks for Iftar

While food is important, staying hydrated is just as crucial after fasting. Here are some great Vietnamese drinks to help you rehydrate:

  • Energizer Milkshake – A natural energy booster made with Fresh Milk, Peanut Butter, Banana 
  • Trà bí đao (Winter Melon Tea) – A light and refreshing herbal tea to cool down. 
  • Tan’s Smoothie (Avocado Smoothie) – A Nutritious and Creamy Drink made with fresh avocado, milk, and a touch of sweetness.

Enjoy Vietnamese Foods This Ramadan with Family and Friends

Ramadan is not just about fasting; it’s a time to connect with loved ones. Vietnamese cuisine is perfect for sharing, whether it’s a steaming bowl of pho, a platter of spring rolls, refreshing Vietnamese salad or a refreshing smoothie.

If you’re looking for meals that are both delicious and nourishing, consider visiting Pho7 and trying Vietnamese foods this Ramadan. The variety of flavours, fresh ingredients, and balanced nutrition make it a perfect choice for Iftar.

So, gather your friends and family, visit Pho7, and enjoy the best flavours of Vietnamese foods this Ramadan!