How to Make Nem Rán: Hanoi’s Fried Spring Roll Recipe & Eco Tours

A Crunchy Hanoian Culinary Gem

Nem Rán, Hanoi’s iconic fried spring rolls, is a cherished street food that captures the capital’s love for crispy textures and vibrant flavors. Pronounced “nem zahn” (fried rolls), also known as chả giò in southern Vietnam, this northern Vietnamese delicacy is a staple in Hoan Kiem Ward’s bustling Old Quarter. These golden rolls feature a filling of seasoned ground pork, glass noodles, wood ear mushrooms, and diced vegetables like carrots and kohlrabi, wrapped in rice paper and deep-fried to perfection. Paired with a tangy-sweet nước chấm dipping sauce (fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, garlic, chili) and fresh herbs like lettuce, mint, and cilantro, Nem Rán costs $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) to prepare at home for four or $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND) per portion at local stalls, offering a delightful crunch and savory burst.

A symbol of Hanoi’s communal dining, Nem Rán graces family gatherings, Tet celebrations, and street-side meals, reflecting Vietnam’s culinary artistry. In Hoan Kiem Ward, vendors use locally sourced ingredients and eco-friendly reusable plates, aligning with Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative. Learning to make Nem Rán brings Hanoi’s street food magic to your kitchen, while Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly food tours offer an authentic taste in Hanoi. Book via the links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Administrative Update

Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has reclassified Hanoi’s districts as wards or communes, with Hoan Kiem District now Hoan Kiem Ward under Hanoi City’s administration. This streamlines navigation to Nem Rán hotspots using ward-based maps.

Legend Travel Group excels in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, offering guided eco-friendly food tours in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward, tailored for travelers seeking authentic culinary experiences. Our tours use low-impact transport like cyclos, led by English-speaking guides who share Nem Rán’s cultural roots, rolling techniques, and sustainable dining practices, ensuring a safe, enriching adventure. Supporting local vendors, we align with Hanoi’s green initiatives. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we make planning effortless. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and savor Nem Rán responsibly! TripAdvisor Reviews

Nem Rán, a northern Vietnamese dish with Chinese influences, is a festive and everyday favorite in Hanoi, symbolizing prosperity during Tet and joy in daily meals. Unlike southern chả giò, which often uses wheat wrappers, Hanoi’s Nem Rán employs rice paper for a lighter, crisper texture. Its communal preparation—families rolling rolls together—fosters bonds, while street stalls serve it fresh, enhancing Hanoi’s vibrant food scene. In Hoan Kiem Ward, vendors source pork and vegetables from local markets like Dong Xuan, frying rolls in small batches for optimal crunch, often on reusable plates. High in protein and fiber, Nem Rán is a satisfying snack, though moderation is advised due to frying. Whether at a stall or home, Nem Rán embodies Hanoi’s love for balanced flavors and textures, making it a must-try culinary experience.

Recreate Hanoi’s Nem Rán at home with this authentic recipe, designed for four servings (about 12–16 rolls). This northern-style version uses rice paper and pork, staying true to Hoan Kiem Ward’s street food tradition, with accessible ingredients.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• Ground Pork: 300g, lean (preferably shoulder cut, $2–$3 or 50,000–75,000 VND at Asian markets or Dong Xuan Market).

• Glass Noodles (Mien): 50g, dried ($0.50 or 12,500 VND).

• Wood Ear Mushrooms: 20g, dried ($0.50 or 12,500 VND).

• Carrots: 1 medium (100g), finely julienned ($0.20 or 5,000 VND).

• Kohlrabi or Jicama: 100g, finely julienned ($0.30 or 7,500 VND); substitute with bean sprouts if unavailable.

• Shallots: 2 medium, minced ($0.20 or 5,000 VND).

• Green Onions: 2 stalks, chopped ($0.20 or 5,000 VND).

• Egg: 1, for binding ($0.20 or 5,000 VND); reserve white for sealing.

• Rice Paper Wrappers: 12–16 sheets, 22cm round ($1 or 25,000 VND).

• Seasonings:

  • Fish sauce: 2 tsp ($0.10 or 2,500 VND).

  • Sugar: 1 tsp ($0.05 or 1,250 VND).

  • Black pepper: 1 tsp ($0.10 or 2,500 VND).

• Sunflower Oil: 500ml for frying ($1.50 or 37,500 VND).

• Dipping Sauce (Nước Chấm):

  • Fish sauce: 3 tbsp ($0.10 or 2,500 VND).

  • Lime juice: 2 tbsp (1 lime, $0.20 or 5,000 VND).

  • Sugar: 2 tbsp ($0.10 or 2,500 VND).

  • Water: 4 tbsp.

  • Garlic: 2 cloves, minced ($0.10 or 2,500 VND).

  • Red chili: 1 small, sliced ($0.10 or 2,500 VND).

• Fresh Herbs: Lettuce, mint, cilantro (1 cup total, $0.50 or 12,500 VND).

• Optional Sides: Bún (rice vermicelli, $0.80 or 20,000 VND) or bánh mì ($1.50 or 37,500 VND). Total Cost: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) for 12–16 rolls.

Equipment

• Mixing bowl.

• Deep frying pan or wok.

• Tongs or slotted spoon.

• Cutting board and knife.

• Shallow dish for soaking rice paper.

• Cooling rack or strainer.

Instructions (Prep Time: 45–60 minutes)

1. Prepare the Filling:

   • Soak glass noodles and wood ear mushrooms in hot water for 15 minutes until soft. Drain, chop noodles into 2cm lengths, and finely chop mushrooms.

   • In a large bowl, combine ground pork, noodles, mushrooms, julienned carrots, kohlrabi, minced shallots, chopped green onions, egg yolk (reserve white), 2 tsp fish sauce, 1 tsp sugar, and 1 tsp black pepper. Mix thoroughly until sticky, about 2 minutes.

2. Roll the Spring Rolls:

   • Fill a shallow dish with warm water (40–50°C). Dip a rice paper sheet for 3–5 seconds until pliable but not too soft; place on a clean, flat surface (wooden board or damp cloth).

   • Place 1 tbsp filling (about 20g) on the lower third of the rice paper. Fold the bottom edge over the filling, tuck in both sides, and roll tightly toward the top. Dab egg white on the edge to seal. Aim for rolls about 2cm wide x 6cm long. Repeat for 12–16 rolls.

3. Fry the Spring Rolls:

   • Heat 500ml sunflower oil in a deep pan or wok over medium-high heat (170–180°C; test by inserting wooden chopsticks—if bubbles form, it’s ready).

   • First Fry: Fry 4–6 rolls at a time for 5–7 minutes until lightly golden. Remove with tongs, drain on a cooling rack or strainer to remove excess oil, and let cool for 10 minutes.

   • Second Fry: Just before serving, reheat oil to high (190°C) and fry rolls again for 1–2 minutes until golden-brown and crispy. They should float to the surface. Drain again.

4. Make the Dipping Sauce:

   • In a small bowl, combine 3 tbsp fish sauce, 2 tbsp lime juice, 2 tbsp sugar, 4 tbsp water, minced garlic, and sliced chili. Stir until sugar dissolves. Adjust with more lime or chili to taste.

5. Serve:

   • Arrange hot Nem Rán on a plate with lettuce, mint, and cilantro. Serve with nước chấm for dipping and optional bún or bánh mì. Wrap a roll in lettuce with herbs, dip, and enjoy immediately for maximum crunch.

   • Use reusable plates or bamboo mats for eco-friendly serving.

Tips for Success

• Rice Paper Handling: Don’t oversoak rice paper; it should be pliable but firm. Work quickly to prevent tearing. If using dried rice paper, store in a sealed bag to avoid drying out.

• Filling Variations: Add crab ($2 or 50,000 VND for 100g) or shrimp for a luxurious twist, common in Hanoi’s upscale eateries. For vegetarian rolls, use tofu and extra mushrooms.

• Frying Temperature: Maintain oil at 170–180°C for the first fry to cook the filling evenly; increase to 190°C for the second fry for crispiness. Avoid overcrowding the pan.

• Eco-Friendly Prep: Use reusable tools (e.g., stainless steel tongs) and compost vegetable scraps. Reuse frying oil (strain and store) for up to 2–3 sessions.

• Storage: Unfried rolls can be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw before frying. Fried rolls are best fresh but can be reheated in an oven at 180°C for 5 minutes.

Making Nem Rán at home is rewarding, but tasting it in Hoan Kiem Ward’s street stalls offers an authentic Hanoi experience. Below are five top spots, selected for quality, eco-friendly practices, and recent reviews, serving rolls for $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND):

1. Nem Vương Cửa Bè (37 Đào Duy Từ, Hoan Kiem Ward)

A legendary stall famed for crab and pork Nem Rán, best at 5:00 PM. Uses reusable plates and local ingredients.

• Cost: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); trà đá $0.20 (5,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 3:00 PM–10:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Local sourcing; minimal waste.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

2. Bún Chả Đắc Kim (1 Hàng Mành, Hoan Kiem Ward)

A Michelin-recognized eatery pairing Nem Rán with bún chả, best at 11:00 AM. Eco-friendly reusable trays.

• Cost: $1.50–$2 (37,500–50,000 VND); bún chả combo $3 (75,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM–8:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Local pork; biodegradable packaging.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

3. Quán Nem Chua Rán Tạ Hiện (20 Tạ Hiện, Hoan Kiem Ward)

A nightlife hub spot with crunchy Nem Rán, best at 6:00 PM. Sustainable sourcing and reusable plates.

• Cost: $1–$1.50 (25,000–37,500 VND); lime juice $0.40 (10,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 4:00 PM–11:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Local vegetables; minimal waste.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

4. Nhà Hàng Món Ngon Sài Gòn (25 Lương Ngọc Quyến, Hoan Kiem Ward)

A cozy eatery with shrimp Nem Rán, best at 12:00 PM. Eco-friendly reusable bowls.

• Cost: $1.50–$2 (37,500–50,000 VND); trà đá $0.20 (5,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–9:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Local herbs; minimal waste.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

5. Quán Ăn Ngon (18 Phan Bội Châu, Hoan Kiem Ward)

An upscale spot with classic Nem Rán, best at 7:00 PM. Sustainable sourcing and reusable trays.

• Cost: $1.50–$2 (37,500–50,000 VND); chili sauce free.

• Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM–10:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Local pork; biodegradable packaging.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

Whether homemade or at a stall, savor Nem Rán authentically with these Hanoian practices:

1. Wrap and Dip: Wrap a roll in lettuce with mint and cilantro, then dip into nước chấm for a balanced, fresh bite.

2. Eat Fresh: Consume immediately after frying for maximum crunch, using chopsticks to handle hot rolls.

3. Balance Flavors: Adjust nước chấm with extra chili or lime; add pickled carrots ($0.20 or 5,000 VND) for tang.

4. Sides: Pair with trà đá ($0.20 or 5,000 VND) or bún chả ($2–$3 or 50,000–75,000 VND). Eco-Friendly Tip: Use reusable plates; compost herb stems to reduce waste.

Enhance your Nem Rán journey with these sustainable activities in Hoan Kiem Ward:

1. Nem Rán Tasting Tour

Join a 2–3-hour eco-friendly cyclo tour, tasting Nem Rán at Nem Vương Cửa Bè at 5:00 PM, learning rolling techniques.

• Cost: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND) per person.

• Hours: Daily, 3:00 PM–9:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Low-impact transport; supports vendors.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

2. Visit Dong Xuan Market

Explore Dong Xuan Market (Ba Đình Ward, 1 km from Hoan Kiem) for Nem Rán ingredients like rice paper, a 1–2-hour activity at 10:00 AM.

• Cost: Free entry; purchases $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Local sourcing; reusable bags.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

3. Street Food Cooking Class

Learn Nem Rán preparation in a 2-hour eco-friendly class at 11:00 AM, using local ingredients.

• Cost: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND) per person.

• Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Sustainable sourcing; compostable waste.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Cultural Food Tour ($100–$150).

4. Stroll Hoan Kiem Lake

Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake (500 m from Tạ Hiện) post-lunch at 2:00 PM, a 30–60-minute low-impact activity.

• Cost: Free; Ngoc Son Temple entry $1.20 (30,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–10:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Pedestrian-friendly; supports local culture.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

5. Explore Old Quarter Night Market

Visit the Weekend Night Market (500 m from Hàng Mành) at 7:00 PM, a 1–2-hour sustainable activity for vegan street food.

• Cost: Free entry; purchases $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Hours: Friday–Sunday, 6:00 PM–11:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Supports local vendors; walkable.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Cultural Food Tour ($100–$150).

Nem Rán stalls in Hoan Kiem Ward are accessible in 5–10 minutes from central Hanoi, using sustainable options:

• By Bus: Routes 01, 09, or 14 to Hoan Kiem Lake (5–10 min, $0.30–$0.50 or 7,000–12,000 VND). Walk 5 minutes. Buses run every 10–20 minutes from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

• By Cyclo or Electric Cart: From Hoan Kiem Lake, hire a cyclo (5 min, $2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).

• By Bicycle or Walking: Rent a bicycle in Hoan Kiem Ward ($1–$3/day or 25,000–75,000 VND) or walk 5–10 minutes.

• By Taxi or Grab: To Đào Duy Từ, $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND) one-way. Round-trip: $4–$8 (100,000–200,000 VND). Prestigious taxis: Mai Linh (0438,222,666), Hanoi Taxi (0438,535,353).

• By Private Car (Legend Travel Group): Book a private car ($30–$50 or 750,000–1,250,000 VND round-trip for up to 4 people) for eco-friendly travel with stopovers.

• By Air (to Hanoi): Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), 25 km away. Round-trip flights: Ho Chi Minh City ($80–$150 or 2,000,000–3,750,000 VND), Da Nang ($60–$120 or 1,500,000–3,000,000 VND), international (e.g., Bangkok, $200–$600). Airport Bus No. 86 to Hoan Kiem Ward ($1.40 or 35,000 VND); taxi/Grab to Hàng Mành ($12–$15 or 300,000–375,000 VND). Navigation Tip: Use offline maps (Maps.me) with addresses (e.g., “37 Đào Duy Từ, Hoan Kiem Ward”). English-speaking guides simplify navigation.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable Hanoi visit or home preparation:

• Clothing: Lightweight, casual outfits for cultural respect; comfortable shoes for Old Quarter walking. Waterproof jackets for rainy season.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat.

• Travel/Cooking Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND), reusable tongs ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).

• Tech Gear: Smartphone with offline maps (Maps.me), portable charger.

• Documents: Passport, travel insurance, tour confirmations, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote bag, napkin, bamboo plates to minimize waste.

• Extras: Notebook for recipe notes; cash, as most stalls are cash-only. Tip: Carry small VND notes for quick payments; compost vegetable scraps.

Costs for Nem Rán Experience

Food and Drink Fees (Home Preparation or Dining)

• Nem Rán (home, 12–16 rolls): $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND).

• Nem Rán (stalls): $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); extra portion $1.50 (37,500 VND).

• Sides (trà đá, bún chả): $0.20–$3 (5,000–75,000 VND).

• Guided Food Tour: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

• Market Purchases (herbs): $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Night Market Food (bánh mì chay): $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

• Ngoc Son Temple Entry: $1.20 (30,000 VND).

Transportation (Round-Trip, from Hoan Kiem Ward)

• Bus: $0.60–$1 (14,000–24,000 VND).

• Cyclo/Electric Cart: $4–$10 (100,000–250,000 VND).

• Bicycle: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Walking: Free.

• Taxi/Grab: $4–$8 (100,000–200,000 VND).

• Private Car: $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND).

• Airport Bus No. 86 + Taxi: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND).

Accommodation (Per Night, Double Occupancy)

• Homestays: $20–$50 (500,000–1,250,000 VND).

• Hotels: $30–$80 (750,000–2,000,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost (Per Person, Hanoi Visit)

• Budget: $10–$25 (bus, Nem Rán, homestay).

• Mid-range: $35–$55 (cyclo, food tour, hotel).

• Luxury: $75–$110 (private car, premium hotel). Tip: Buy ingredients in bulk at markets for cost savings; book tours early for Tet or dry season.

• Choose Your Timing: Prepare or eat in the afternoon (3:00–6:00 PM) for freshest ingredients; dry season (November–April) for outdoor stalls, rainy season (May–October) for covered spots.

• Book in Advance: Reserve Legend Travel Group’s food tours 3–5 weeks ahead for peak seasons to secure spots.

• Sustainability: Use reusable kitchen tools and compost scraps at home; choose stalls with reusable plates in Hanoi. Buy local herbs ($0.50–$1 or 12,500–25,000 VND) at markets to support vendors.

• Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) with addresses like “37 Đào Duy Từ, Hoan Kiem Ward.” English-speaking guides simplify navigation.

• Safety: Watch for pickpockets in crowded Old Quarter stalls; keep valuables secure. Carry a first-aid kit.

• Weather Considerations: Dry season for open-air seating; rainy season requires waterproof gear ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND). Check AccuWeather for updates.

• Cultural Respect: Say “cảm ơn”; engage vendors respectfully. Tip $0.20–$0.50 (5,000–12,500 VND) at stalls. Respect stool etiquette in busy settings.

• Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND) alongside Nem Rán; apply mosquito repellent. Consume in moderation due to frying.

Our sustainable tours showcase Hoan Kiem Ward’s Nem Rán culture:

• Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Cyclo ride to Nem Vương Cửa Bè at 5:00 PM, Nem Rán tasting, Dong Xuan Market visit. Includes English-speaking guide, cyclo.

• Hanoi Cultural Food Tour ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Nem Rán at Bún Chả Đắc Kim, Hoan Kiem Lake, vegan cooking class, homestay ($20–$50/night). Includes meals, guide.

• Hanoi & Ninh Binh Immersion ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Top Nem Rán spots, Trang An Grottoes, homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers. Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and fees. Enjoy 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links around this page! TripAdvisor Reviews

Nem Rán, Hanoi’s crispy fried spring rolls, is a street food masterpiece you can craft at home for $3–$5 or savor in Hoan Kiem Ward for $1–$2 at iconic stalls like Nem Vương Cửa Bè. Its golden crunch, savory filling, and tangy nước chấm embody Hanoi’s culinary artistry, served with eco-friendly reusable plates and local ingredients. Whether mastering the recipe or tasting it in the Old Quarter’s lively alleys, Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Tours guide you to Nem Rán’s vibrant heritage, ensuring a sustainable Hanoi Travel experience blending flavor, culture, and sustainability. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your culinary journey today!
Ready to make or savor Hanoi’s iconic Nem Rán? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable culinary adventure!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights and guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.