This cuisine often utilizes fermented ingredients and features a balance of sweet, sour, spicy, and salty flavors, relying heavily on the use of rice, noodles, and fresh herbs.

1. Common dishes include pho, banh mi, and goi cuon.
2. Fish sauce (nuoc mam) is a staple ingredient.
3. The cuisine incorporates influences from both French and Chinese culinary traditions.
4. Fresh herbs like mint, cilantro, and basil are frequently used as garnishes.