As China and Vietnam celebrate the 15th anniversary of their comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, cultural exchanges between the two nations are flourishing. Among the most delicious examples of this deepening relationship is the shared love for hearty, noodle-based dishes that warm both body and soul.
Pho, a fragrant Vietnamese soup dish made with broth, rice noodles, herbs, and beef, is a staple across Vietnam. From bustling street stalls in Hanoi to family kitchens in Ho Chi Minh City, pho is more than just a meal; it’s a symbol of Vietnamese heritage and community.
Meanwhile, in northwest China’s Gansu Province, Lanzhou beef noodles hold a similar place in the hearts of locals. A bowl of these hand-pulled noodles in a rich beef broth, garnished with herbs and spices, is not just a breakfast tradition but a way of life for many residents of Lanzhou city.
Thanh Thanh, a Vietnamese student studying in Beijing, embodies this culinary connection. Intrigued by the parallels between her beloved pho and China’s Lanzhou beef noodles, she set out on a flavorful journey to explore both dishes. \”When I first tried Lanzhou beef noodles, it felt like a taste of home yet different,\” she shared. \”It’s amazing how our cuisines reflect shared history and cultural ties.\”
Both dishes, while unique in their ingredients and preparation methods, highlight the importance of food in bringing people together. The use of beef broth, rice or wheat noodles, and fresh herbs showcases a common thread in Chinese and Vietnamese culinary traditions.
As Thanh Thanh discovers the nuances of each dish, her experience reflects a broader trend of young people in both countries embracing and appreciating each other’s cultures. Through food, they find common ground and a deeper understanding of their shared Asian heritage.
In celebrating these culinary delights, China and Vietnam continue to build a \”bite-sized bridge\”—one that nourishes not just their peoples but also the relationship between the two nations. As cultural exchanges like these deepen, they pave the way for a future of mutual respect and cooperation.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
