Nuoc Mam, A Fish Sauce
Fish and seafood are popular, especially in the Center and South due to the surrounding ocean and the web of rivers in the country. Because people fish daily, we have fresh seafood every day in the market. Some of Vietnam's fish is used to make nuoc mam, a fish sauce that is made by combining fish and salt in large barrels and letting it ferment for several months. Nuoc mam is used as a flavoring ingredient much like the Chinese use soy sauce and the Westerners use salt. Despite its name and rather strong scent, fish sauce has a subtle taste that combines beautifully with other ingredients.

Cuisine of Vietnam Varies From Region to Region
The Vietnamese cooking methods include braising, simmering, steaming, grilling, and stir-frying. We use little or no oil in cooking even for stir-fried dishes. The cuisine of Vietnam varies from region to region: in the North, less fresh produce and herbs are available due to the cooler climate. In this region, black pepper is the main seasoning. Stir-fried dishes are very popular, due probably to the Chinese influence. Very hot and spicy food is found in the Center. Southern Vietnam's cooking includes a wide variety of vegetables, fruits, and spices, and sugar is a common ingredient in many dishes. The influence of India is apparent in the South, as curry dishes are very popular in this region. Also, French influence can be found throughout Vietnam, but particularly in the South, where white potatoes, asparagus, and even French baguette are often-used reminders of France's long presence in Vietnam. Despite influences from other countries, Vietnamese food is unique.