Cơm Tấm

Cơm Tấm, also known as broken rice, is a signature dish deeply rooted in the culinary identity of Ho Chi Minh City. Once a humble meal of farmers and laborers, it has now become a must-try street food enjoyed by both locals and tourists alike.

1. What Is Cơm Tấm?

Cơm Tấm is made from fractured rice grains, originally considered low-grade but now cherished for their unique texture. The grains are softer and more absorbent, creating a comforting base for a variety of flavorful toppings.

It’s most famously served with grilled pork chop (sườn nướng), but you’ll often find it with a variety of other accompaniments.

2. Common Components

• Cơm Tấm (Broken Rice): Steamed until soft but not mushy, perfect for soaking up sauces.

• Sườn Nướng (Grilled Pork Chop): Marinated in a mix of fish sauce, garlic, sugar, and lemongrass, then grilled to smoky perfection.

• Bì (Shredded Pork & Skin): Thinly sliced pork skin mixed with roasted rice powder for a chewy, nutty texture.

• Chả Trứng (Vietnamese Egg Meatloaf): A steamed mixture of minced pork, eggs, glass noodles, and wood ear mushrooms.

• Trứng Ốp La (Fried Egg): Sunny-side-up egg with a runny yolk, often placed on top.

• Đồ Chua (Pickled Vegetables): A sweet-sour mix of pickled carrots and daikon radish to balance the richness.

• Nước Mắm (Fish Sauce): A sweet, tangy, and garlicky dipping sauce that ties the whole dish together.

3. Taste & Experience

Cơm Tấm delivers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures:

• Smoky and savory from the grilled pork

• Crunchy and tangy from the pickled veggies

• Rich and runny from the egg

• Soft and fragrant from the broken rice

Each bite is customizable, as you pour the fish sauce over the rice to your liking.

4. Cultural Significance

Cơm Tấm is considered the breakfast (and sometimes lunch or dinner) of champions in Ho Chi Minh City. It’s ubiquitous—found at street food stalls, family-run shops, and even upscale restaurants. Locals love it for its hearty portions, affordable price, and fast service.

Despite its simplicity, it has a cult following and represents the resourcefulness and creativity of Saigonese food culture.

5. Where to Try It in Ho Chi Minh City

• Cơm Tấm Ba Ghiền (famous for huge pork chops)

• Cơm Tấm Nguyễn Văn Cừ

• Cơm Tấm Cali (a more modern, franchise version)

In Summary

Cơm Tấm isn’t just a meal—it’s a cultural experience and a symbol of Saigon’s vibrant street food scene. Whether you’re grabbing it on a sidewalk stool or enjoying it in a restaurant, Cơm Tấm always delivers a memorable taste of Southern Vietnam.