Pho, banh mi, and coffee among Southeast Asia’s must-try foods and beverages: CNBC

Pho noodle soup consists of a rich, savory broth, rice noodles, and thinly sliced beef or chicken.

In Vietnam, pho bo (beef noodle soup) is the most beloved version, with options including the original raw beef, a mix of raw and cooked beef, brisket and tendon.

Although pho originated in Hanoi before moving to the south, the soup is considered a national dish and can be found all over the country. People around Vietnam have added their own touches to the dish.

A bowl of pho bo in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi costs from VND30,000 to VND50,000 ($1.32-$2.20).

Banh mi, an iconic Vietnamese street food that is widely loved well beyond the country’s borders, has built quite a global reputation.

“It’s the perfect option for a quick and tasty meal on the go,” CNBC wrote.

Banh mi is Vietnam’s version of a sandwich, a fusion of cold cuts and vegetables, such as coriander, cucumber, pickled carrots and daikon, combined with condiments from French cuisine, such as pate and mayonnaise.

Street vendors add a variety of other popular fillings including cha lua (Vietnamese pork bologna), fried eggs, grilled pork, and meat balls to enhance the flavor.

A banh mi sandwich costs from VND15,000 to VND50,000, depending on added toppings. The Anan Saigon Restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City serves a $100 banh mi.

CNBC also recommended tourists try a cup of ca phe sua da, which is a perfect pick-me-up on a hot afternoon. Ca phe sua da combines a strong coffee poured over ice and mixed with condensed milk. It is usually served in a tall glass for VND10,000-VND15,000 at street-side stalls and VND40,000-VND60,000 at high-end cafés.

CNBC also recommended Thai street foods such as tom yum and pad Thai, and Indonesia’s nasi goreng (fried rice) and satay (skewers) as Southeast Asia’s must try foods.