VIETNAM

The long, skinny land of Vietnam stretches from Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh City in the south, Laos and Cambodia to the west, and to the north lies China. Like the rest of Southeast Asia, there is an ancient Indian and Chinese cultural presence. The French colonization of Vietnam also has a major impact in influencing Vietnamese cooking and the way of life. From curries to stir-fries to baguettes, this cuisine balances all of its cultural influences. As in many of its neighbors, a Vietnamese meal is rarely divided into courses. All of the food is often served at once and shared by all guest. The distinct flavors of Vietnamese food come primarily from fresh chili, basil, mint, cilantro, star anise, and lemongrass.

"I have many chef and Vietnamese friends who have cooked and shared their love of food with me over the years. The bold use of fresh herbs is inspiring! I find great pleasure in the well-balanced yet fresh and refreshing flavors of Vietnamese cooking. These guys know what they are doing! For the health and diet conscious, you will need to go no further to have a healthy daily diet by cooking and enjoying more Vietnamese dishes. Just look at the slim, beautiful, Vietnamese ladies!"

Appetizers
Vietnamese-Style Rice Paper Wraps
Crispy Curried Beef Turnovers

Soup
Hot & Sour Seafood Soup

Entrees
Curried Chicken and Vegetables
Hue-Style Spicy Fried Rice

Dessert
Lemongrass Spiked Iced Tea

Fish Sauce

Thai Sweet Basil