Top 3 High-Protein Snacks You Should Try When Visiting Vietnam

Vietnam is a food heaven for any traveler, offering delicious, tasty, and healthy cuisine. Many local delicacies remain undiscovered by foreigners, so in this post, we’ll introduce you to three high-protein snacks that locals love. These snacks are perfect for satisfying hunger or pairing with a cold beer.

1. Bò Khô (Dried Beef)

Bò khô, or dried beef, is a specialty from Da Nang. Made from high-quality beef, it is a protein-rich, flavorful snack that is slightly spicy. You can easily find it in convenience stores or grocery stores in 100-200g packages. For an even better taste, try squeezing some fresh lime over it.

Bò Khô - Dried Beef

Why You Should Try It:

Unique Flavor: Bò khô has a balance of savory, sweet, and mildly spicy flavors, making it an irresistible treat.
Long Shelf Life: The drying process removes moisture from the beef, preventing bacterial growth and extending its shelf life.
Convenient & Portable: As a dried snack, it doesn’t require refrigeration, making it perfect for travel, hikes, or outdoor activities.
Variety of Textures: Bò khô comes in different forms, including shredded, sliced, and chunked, allowing you to choose your preferred texture and experience.

If you’re interested in buying in bulk, visit Con Market or Han Market in Da Nang.

2. Khô Gà Lá Chanh (Dried Chicken with Lime Leaves)

Made from chicken breast, lime leaves, fish sauce, chili, and a bit of sugar, khô gà lá chanh is a delicious and aromatic snack enjoyed by many Vietnamese people. It’s available in most convenience stores and can be eaten on its own or paired with beer. Be mindful that it contains chili.

Khô Gà - Dried Chicken

Why You Should Try It:

Rich Vietnamese Flavor: The combination of mildly sweet and salty chicken with the citrusy aroma of lime leaves and a slight spicy kick makes this snack incredibly flavorful.
Crunchy & Addictive: The dried chicken strands are crispy and coated in butter and garlic, giving them a satisfying crunch.
Light Yet Satisfying: Despite being a high-protein snack, it’s light and easy to eat, making it hard to stop once you start.

3. Khô Heo Cháy Tỏi (Dried Pork with Garlic)

If you’re not a fan of spicy food, khô heo cháy tỏi is a great alternative. Made from pork and infused with garlic, this snack is packed with bold flavors while being less spicy than bò khô or khô gà.

Khô Heo Cháy Tỏi

Why You Should Try It:

Savory & Aromatic: The roasted garlic enhances the rich umami taste of the dried pork.
Perfect Snack or Gift: It’s commonly enjoyed during festivals and special occasions and makes for a great souvenir.
Easy to Find: Like the other snacks, you can buy it in most local markets and convenience stores.

Where to Buy These Snacks?

You can find these high-protein snacks in any convenience store, grocery store, or local market such as Con Market or Han Market in Vietnam. Whether you want a quick protein boost or a tasty beer companion, these snacks are a must-try!