International Visitors in South Africa Experience Vietnamese Cuisine

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This cultural exchange event was organized by the spouses of the staff at the Vietnamese Embassy in South Africa, aiming to showcase the essence of Vietnamese cuisine through three traditional rice-based dishes: fried vegetarian spring rolls, Hanoi chicken pho, and sweet rice dumplings.

Speaking at the event, Vu Le Phuong, the spouse of the Vietnamese Ambassador to South Africa, shared that rice is not only the country’s staple food but also the “soul” of the Vietnamese people, symbolizing abundance, family reunion, and gratitude to nature. From the Red River Delta to the Mekong Delta, rice has nourished over 100 million Vietnamese people, embodying the hard work and sweat of generations of farmers.

Members were excited about the introduction to cooking chicken pho. (Photo: Hong Minh/VNA)

Along with enjoying the dishes, international guests also learned that Vietnam is now one of the world’s leading rice exporters, supplying over 7 million tons of rice annually to more than 150 countries and territories. Choosing rice as the highlight of the cooking class not only evokes the country’s ancient civilization but also underscores the growing global stature of Vietnamese agricultural products.

Under the attentive guidance of “Vietnamese chefs,” the international participants took part in every step of the cooking process. The most exciting part was making fried vegetarian spring rolls, as many tried rolling them for the first time, yet did so skillfully. Each golden, crispy roll was not only a testament to deft hands but also a symbol of cultural connection.

Romchalee Kanokngamwitroj, the spouse of the New Zealand Ambassador to South Africa, told Vietnam News Agency reporters, “I am truly honored to participate in the Vietnamese cooking class. I learned many interesting tips, such as how to soften the rice paper before rolling so the spring rolls look perfect and don’t tear. The ingredients are also very unique and delicate. I will definitely try making them at home.”

Beyond learning how to roll spring rolls or prepare pho broth, the international participants also heard stories about the cultural and historical significance embedded in each dish. Tulu İçözü Aykan, the spouse of the Turkish Deputy Ambassador to South Africa, emotionally said: “While cooking Vietnamese dishes firsthand, I realized that cuisine is a wonderful bridge between cultures. Through this class, we not only tasted delicious food but also gained a deeper understanding of the Vietnamese people – friendly, open, and hospitable.”

The tourists experienced making Banh Troi, Banh Chay (Photo: VNA)

At the event, the Vietnamese Embassy also showcased a variety of agricultural and handicraft products, including rice, tea, coffee, silk, and ceramics. Many guests expressed admiration for the intricacy and craftsmanship evident in each traditional handmade item.

Andile Malinga, a South African participant, shared: “Before today, I only knew that Vietnam was in Asia, but now I truly love this country. I learned many interesting things, such as the tip of roasting ginger before adding it to pho broth to enhance the flavor. I will definitely make Vietnamese spring rolls and pho for my family.”

The cooking class concluded in a warm and convivial atmosphere, rich with the flavors of Vietnam. Each guest left not only with recipes but also with stories of a country steeped in tradition, where tiny grains of rice have become a thread connecting cultures and fostering friendship among nations.

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