“Ăn gì bổ nấy” goes the Vietnamese proverb, meaning “you are what you eat.” But what happens when your stomach is doing flips and even the thought of food makes you queasy? Don’t worry, Hanoi has a cure for that too! We all know that sinking feeling of an upset stomach, especially when traveling. Luckily, Vietnamese cuisine is full of soothing and delicious remedies that can have you feeling right as rain in no time.
Comfort Food Cures
Congee (Cháo)
Ah, congee, the ultimate comfort food for any ailment. This simple rice porridge is a staple in Vietnamese households and is often the go-to remedy for an upset stomach. Why? It’s gentle on the digestive system, easily digestible, and can be flavored in numerous ways to tempt even the most delicate palate.
For an upset stomach, try plain congee cooked with ginger – a natural digestive aid. You can find delicious and affordable congee at street food stalls and local restaurants all over Hanoi. Some popular spots include the congee stalls on Ly Quoc Su street or the cozy eatery, “Cháo Gà Bà Mỹ” near Hoan Kiem Lake.
Hanoi street food stalls
Rice Noodles (Phở)
No trip to Vietnam is complete without a steaming bowl of Phở. But did you know this national dish is also considered a stomach soother? The light broth is packed with electrolytes and the rice noodles are easy to digest. Opt for chicken or tofu as your protein for a gentler option. For an extra boost, add a squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of ginger.
You can find delicious Phở on almost every corner in Hanoi. For an authentic experience, head to “Phở Gia Truyen” on Bat Dan Street or “Phở Thin” on Lo Duc Street.
Herbal Help
Vietnamese culture places great emphasis on natural remedies, and many locals swear by the healing properties of herbs. Here are a few readily available options:
Ginger (Gừng)
This wonder root is a natural anti-inflammatory and can work wonders for nausea and indigestion. You can find it in many dishes or enjoy it as a warm ginger tea. Many local cafes in Hanoi offer fresh ginger tea, or you can buy ginger candy at most convenience stores.
Fresh ginger tea in Hanoi
Mint (Bạc Hà)
Mint is known for its soothing properties and can help alleviate bloating and indigestion. Enjoy it in a refreshing iced tea or add a few leaves to your water bottle for a subtle flavor boost.
Perilla Leaf (Lá Tía Tô)
This unique herb has a distinct aroma and is believed to have antiviral and antibacterial properties. It’s often used in Vietnamese cuisine to add flavor and aid digestion. You can find perilla leaves served as a side dish with many Vietnamese dishes.
Seeking Local Wisdom
Remember, if you’re experiencing severe or persistent stomach problems, it’s important to seek professional medical advice. However, for mild cases, these Vietnamese remedies can provide relief and get you back to enjoying your Hanoi adventure in no time!
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TRAVELCAR vehicles in Hanoi
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