World Rank
Cơm Tấm
Cơm Tấm
Vietnamese broken rice — broken jasmine rice grains with a grilled pork chop, fried egg, and pickled vegetables. Saigon's most iconic everyday meal.
Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City
Not Spicy
Spice Level
$2-4
Price Range
Prep Time
Overview
Cơm Tấm, known locally as "Cơm Tấm", stands at #42 in our ranking of the world's finest rice dishes. Vietnamese broken rice — broken jasmine rice grains with a grilled pork chop, fried egg, and pickled vegetables. Saigon's most iconic everyday meal. Originating from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, this beloved dish has captured hearts worldwide with its smoky-grilled, tangy, and fish-sauce-savory.
Key Ingredients
The authentic Cơm Tấm features these essential ingredients: Broken rice, grilled pork chop, shredded pork skin, steamed egg, pickled vegetables, fish sauce, scallion oil. Each component contributes to the dish's distinctive smoky-grilled, tangy, and fish-sauce-savory character that makes it truly special.
Flavor Profile
“Smoky-grilled, tangy, and fish-sauce-savory”
Preparation & Serving
Cooking Method
Rice steamed, pork marinated and grilled over charcoal
Serving Style
On a plate with all toppings, fish sauce dipping bowl
Cơm Tấm is prepared using the traditional method: rice steamed, pork marinated and grilled over charcoal. The dish is on a plate with all toppings, fish sauce dipping bowl, showcasing the care and attention that goes into every serving. This dish focuses on its rich flavors rather than heat.
Best Paired With
History & Origins
The story of Cơm Tấm is deeply intertwined with the culinary traditions of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. This iconic dish emerged from the Vietnam food culture, where Broken rice and grilled pork chop have been staple ingredients for generations. Over time, Cơm Tấm evolved from a regional specialty to an internationally recognized symbol of Vietnam's rich culinary heritage.
Where to Try Authentic Cơm Tấm
For the most authentic Cơm Tấm experience, Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam is the ultimate destination. Look for establishments where Cơm Tấm is the specialty, and don't hesitate to ask locals for their recommendations. Many traditional eateries in Vietnam have been perfecting their recipes for generations.
Nutrition Information
Calories
Price Range
Spice Level
Prep Time
Cultural Significance
Cơm Tấm represents more than just food—it's a window into Vietnam's cultural identity and traditions. Fresh herbs, light preparations, balance of flavors, strong French colonial influence. Street food is king - plastic stools on sidewalks serve world-class pho