On March 24, 2020, for the first time, an image of Vietnamese Bánh Mì appeared as a Doodle on the Google homepage in 12 countries around the world. Immediately after, the hashtag #Toiyeubanhmisaigon (#ILoveBanhMiSaigon) was posted by many people on social media, along with emotional posts about Vietnamese bánh mì and Saigon bánh mì.
As a dish introduced to Vietnam several centuries ago, it is through skillful and diverse “Vietnamization” that bánh mì has now become one of our iconic foods. When they think of a golden, crispy-crusted loaf stuffed with meat and various vegetables, tourists immediately think of Vietnam, especially Saigon – HCMC.
From a side dish often served with saucy dishes, upon entering the rich culinary life of our country, bánh mì was transformed into countless variations.
Some people are fascinated by a plain, hot loaf dipped in a bit of condensed milk or simply sprinkled with sugar and spread with butter. Others love bánh mì with fish cakes (bánh mì chả cá), bánh mì with a sunny-side-up egg (bánh mì ốp-la), or bánh mì served with curry or beef stew (bò kho). But the most memorable version remains the meat-filled bánh mì, enhanced with the savory touch of sauce and soy sauce, the fragrant spice of chili and cilantro, and the crunchy texture of pickled papaya and carrots. Saigon Bánh Mì, Vietnamese Bánh Mì, suddenly became famous thanks to its sophistication, convenience, and unmistakable character.
And not long ago, the moment H’Hen Niê shone at the Miss Universe 2018 pageant in a special national costume named “Bánh Mì” made many people burst with joy.
The image of Vietnamese Bánh Mì appearing on the Google Doodle on March 24.
“More than just a dish, Saigon Bánh Mì is a typical representative of the character of Saigon’s people – an open character, embracing the quintessence of humanity, and through creativity and sophistication, has transformed bánh mì into a distinct, characteristic dish that has become integral to the Saigon lifestyle,” mused Mr. Bùi Tá Hoàng Vũ, Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism.
The Ho Chi Minh City tourism industry held a week-long celebration to honor and promote the image of Vietnamese bánh mì and Saigon bánh mì to international friends through a series of practical programs. Many artists and celebrities joined hands to spread this cultural message. Kicking off this meaningful week was the relatable music video “I Love Bánh Mì Sài Gòn,” produced by musician Nguyễn Hải Phong and Brandbeats Music Agency, which delighted many viewers.
(Source: VGP News – Government Electronic Newspaper)
