Green Papaya Salad with Dried Beef
Green Papaya Salad with Dried Beef – A Refreshing Hanoi Street Food
Among the many treasures of Hanoi street food, Green Papaya Salad with Dried Beef (Gỏi Đu Đủ Bò Khô) stands out for its refreshing crunch and bold flavors. This unique salad combines shredded green papaya with aromatic herbs, savory dried beef, roasted peanuts, and a sweet-and-sour dressing. Loved by both locals and travelers, it has become a must-try dish for anyone exploring Vietnam’s capital.
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1. What is Green Papaya Salad with Dried Beef?
Green Papaya Salad with Dried Beef is a traditional Vietnamese street food dish made from thinly shredded unripe papaya, mixed with herbs, peanuts, and topped with slices of dried or grilled beef. A light yet flavorful fish sauce dressing ties all the ingredients together. This dish is popular for its balance of crunchy, tangy, savory, and spicy flavors, making it a refreshing snack or light meal on hot Hanoi days.
2. The History of Green Papaya Salad
The Northern part of Vietnam is the place that gave birth to this delicious dish. Nobody knows exactly where did “Nom Bo Kho” come from and also the year it was born. However, this dish has become a favorite dish of Vietnamese people, especially in Hanoi, and from one kind of Sweet and Sour Salad, each province of Vietnam has created other recipes in making “Nom.”
3. Essential Ingredients for Vietnamese Green Papaya Salad with Dried Beef
A delicious plate of Green Papaya Salad with Dried Beef (Nộm khô bò) is created from a perfect harmony of fresh, crunchy, and savory ingredients. The base is made of thinly shredded green papaya, offering a crisp texture and refreshing taste. On top, slices of dried beef (khô bò) add a rich, slightly chewy, and aromatic layer of flavor that balances beautifully with the freshness of the papaya. The salad is further enhanced with fresh herbs like Thai basil and cilantro, along with roasted peanuts and fried shallots for extra crunch.
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Finally, the dish is tied together with a tangy nuoc cham dressing, blending fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, sugar, and chili to create the signature sweet-sour-salty-spicy balance. All of these ingredients combine to deliver a street food favorite that is both light and flavorful, making it one of Hanoi’s most iconic snacks.
The Northern part of Vietnam is the place that gave birth to this delicious dish. Nobody knows exactly where did “Nom Bo Kho” come from and also the year it was born. However, this dish has become a favorite dish of Vietnamese people, especially in Hanoi, and from one kind of Sweet and Sour Salad, each province of Vietnam has created other recipes in making “Nom.”
3. Essential Ingredients for Vietnamese Green Papaya Salad with Dried Beef
A delicious plate of Green Papaya Salad with Dried Beef (Nộm khô bò) is created from a perfect harmony of fresh, crunchy, and savory ingredients. The base is made of thinly shredded green papaya, offering a crisp texture and refreshing taste. On top, slices of dried beef (khô bò) add a rich, slightly chewy, and aromatic layer of flavor that balances beautifully with the freshness of the papaya. The salad is further enhanced with fresh herbs like Thai basil and cilantro, along with roasted peanuts and fried shallots for extra crunch.
Finally, the dish is tied together with a tangy nuoc cham dressing, blending fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, sugar, and chili to create the signature sweet-sour-salty-spicy balance. All of these ingredients combine to deliver a street food favorite that is both light and flavorful, making it one of Hanoi’s most iconic snacks.
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4. Notable Places to Try Green Papaya Salad with Dried Beef in Hanoi
4.1 Long Vi Dung – The Legendary Spot
Long Vi Dung is one of the most famous places to enjoy Nộm khô bò in Hanoi. The salad here is known for its generous topping of dried beef, crunchy papaya, and perfectly balanced sauce. Despite being a sidewalk stall, it attracts crowds of both locals and tourists every day.
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- Address: 23 Hoàn Kiếm Street, Hoàn Kiếm District, Hanoi
- Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Price range: Around 50,000 VND per plate
4.2 Nộm Bò Gia – Affordable and Delicious
If you are looking for a budget-friendly yet authentic taste, Nộm Bò Gia is a must-try. The salad is simple but flavorful, with tender beef jerky and fresh papaya at a very reasonable price. It’s a popular spot among students and workers in the area.
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- Address: 1 Nguyễn Trung Trực Street, Ba Đình District, Hanoi
- Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Price range: From 20,000 VND per plate
4.3 Hoàn Kiếm Lake Street Vendors – Local Evening Vibe
Around Hoàn Kiếm Lake, especially near the fountain area, you can find small vendors serving papaya salad in the evenings. The experience here is unique, as you can enjoy the dish while strolling through Hanoi’s lively Old Quarter. The salad is often enjoyed as a quick snack paired with fresh drinks.
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- Address: Hoàn Kiếm Lake area, Hoàn Kiếm District, Hanoi
- Opening hours: 4:00 PM – late night
- Price range: 30,000 – 40,000 VND per plate
Green Papaya Salad with Dried Beef, or Nộm khô bò, is more than just a street snack-it represents the essence of Hanoi’s vibrant food culture. From legendary stalls like Long Vi Dung to affordable favorites such as Nộm Bò Gia, and even casual evening vendors by Hoàn Kiếm Lake, each place offers its own unique take on this refreshing and flavorful dish. No visit to Hanoi is complete without trying this local specialty, best enjoyed while immersing yourself in the city’s bustling streets and lively atmosphere.
For travelers who wish to fully experience Hanoi’s culinary and cultural highlights, staying at Tonkin Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa is an excellent choice. Conveniently located near the center of the Old Quarter, the hotel not only offers comfortable rooms and modern amenities but also provides curated local experiences, from guided food tours to personalized recommendations for the best street food stalls. Whether you are here for a short visit or an extended stay, Tonkin Hotel ensures that your journey in Hanoi is both authentic and memorable.
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Tonkin Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa
Want to experience Hanoi like a true local? Stay at Tonkin Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa, conveniently located near the Old Quarter. From here, you can easily explore iconic street food like Nộm khô bò, enjoy guided culinary tours, and discover the city’s vibrant culture. Book your stay today for an authentic Hanoi adventure!