Cơm tấm, a Vietnamese dish that has captured the hearts of food lovers worldwide, is a testament to the magic of simplicity in cuisine. This dish, whose name literally translates to “broken rice,” was originally created by farmers who would eat the fractured rice grains that were not suitable for sale. Today, it’s a beloved staple in Vietnamese cuisine, both in its home country and abroad. The popularity of Cơm tấm lies in its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The slightly firmer texture of the broken rice, the succulent grilled pork, the fresh pickled vegetables, and the rich fish sauce all come together to create a symphony of taste that is hard to resist. It’s a dish that is humble in its origins, yet rich in its flavors, embodying the very essence of Vietnamese cuisine. The popularity of Cơm tấm is a testament to the universal appeal of simple, hearty, and delicious food.

Where to try the best Cơm tấm

Cơm tấm, or broken rice, is a Vietnamese dish made from rice with fractured rice grains. This dish is usually served with grilled pork (either ribs or shredded) over broken rice. The best place to try Cơm tấm is in its birthplace, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. One of the most popular places to enjoy this dish is at Cơm Tấm Ba Ghiền. This restaurant is famous for its delicious and authentic Cơm tấm, attracting both locals and tourists. Another great place is Cơm Tấm Cali, a chain restaurant in California, USA, that serves authentic Vietnamese cuisine. They have received high ratings for their Cơm tấm, making it a must-try for anyone craving Vietnamese food.

Cơm Tấm Ba Ghiền: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g293925-d8376488-Reviews-Com_Tam_Ba_Ghien-Ho_Chi_Minh_City.html

Cơm Tấm Cali: https://www.yelp.com/biz/c%C6%A1m-t%E1%BA%A5m-cali-san-jose-2

Where did Cơm tấm come from

Cơm tấm, also known as broken rice, is a popular Vietnamese dish that originated in the Mekong Delta region of southern Vietnam. The dish’s history dates back to the early 20th century when rice was a precious commodity. During the harvesting and processing of rice, some grains would inevitably break. These broken grains were considered inferior and were often discarded or given to the poor. However, the locals found a way to turn these broken rice grains into a delicious meal, thus creating Cơm tấm. The dish typically consists of grilled pork, a fried egg, and pickled vegetables served over a bed of broken rice. Over time, Cơm tấm has become a staple in Vietnamese cuisine, loved by people from all walks of life. It is a symbol of resourcefulness and resilience, turning something considered ‘less than’ into a dish that is now celebrated and enjoyed by many.


We hope you enjoyed this culinary discovery and will incorporate it into your next adventurous journey around the world. If you found this dish delightful, don’t hesitate to share it with your friends. And if you have any other dishes that travelers should try, feel free to add them to our website using our submission form at https://forkhunter.com/frontend-post/. Your contributions help enrich the experiences of fellow food enthusiasts and travelers alike.

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