The Refined Taste of Vietnam
Keeping the spirit of traditional pho cuon (rolled pho) intact while incorporating a modern touch, the Brown Rice Pho Rolls with Shrimp and Pork at Senté Restaurant (Hanoi) is a testament to the continuous creativity of Vietnamese cuisine.
Each roll is a delicate combination of healthy ingredients and artistic presentation, offering both local and international diners an experience that feels simultaneously familiar and new.
Instead of using ordinary white pho noodles, Senté’s chef makes the pho sheets themselves from brown rice, which gives them a natural brown color, a soft texture, and a rich nutritional profile. This sheet gently embraces the filling, which includes fresh boiled shrimp, fragrant barbecued xa xiu pork, king oyster mushrooms, lotus rootlets, cucumber, and Vietnamese coriander, creating a harmonious medley of aroma, color, and flavor.
The highlight of the dish lies in the xa xiu pork, which is meticulously marinated for several hours and then grilled over a moderate flame to retain its characteristic tender sweetness and aroma. This is complemented by the fresh sweetness of the shrimp, the crisp coolness of the vegetables, and the mild nutty flavor of white sesame seeds and fried shallots sprinkled on top, all coming together to create a balanced and evocative dish.
Essential to the experience is the subtly prepared dipping sauce - light and refined - just enough to fully enhance the sweetness of the seafood and vegetables.
More than just a dish, the Brown Rice Pho Rolls with Shrimp and Pork is Senté’s way of telling the story of Vietnamese cuisine - a place where tradition is cherished and creativity is encouraged, offering a refined, healthy, and culturally rich experience to both domestic and international diners.
Address: Senté Restaurant - No. 12 Lieu Giai, Ba Dinh Ward, Hanoi
Phone: 0989.823.412
By Tran Thanh Giang
Translated by Hong Hanh