How to Make Nộm Đu Đủ: Hanoi’s Green Papaya Salad Recipe & Eco Tours

A Taste of Hanoi’s Vibrant Street Food Culture

Nộm Đu Đủ, Hanoi’s iconic green papaya salad, is a refreshing street food dish that captures the capital’s love for crisp, balanced flavors. Pronounced “nome doo doo” (green papaya salad), also known as Gỏi Đu Đủ, this northern Vietnamese specialty is a staple in Hoan Kiem Ward’s bustling Old Quarter. It features julienned unripe green papaya, carrots, roasted peanuts, fresh herbs like Thai basil, mint, and perilla, and often chewy dried beef (bò khô), all tossed in a tangy-sweet dressing of fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, garlic, and chili. Priced at $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND) at stalls, or about $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) to prepare at home for two, Nộm Đu Đủ offers a delightful mix of sweet, sour, spicy, and savory, perfect as a snack or light meal.

A favorite among Hanoians and travelers, Nộm Đu Đủ is savored at sidewalk stalls on low stools, reflecting Hanoi’s communal dining spirit. Its no-cook preparation and health benefits—rich in antioxidants, fiber, and digestive enzymes like papain—make it an accessible dish to recreate at home or enjoy locally. In Hoan Kiem Ward, vendors source fresh ingredients from markets like Dong Xuan, using eco-friendly reusable plates to align with Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative. Learning to make Nộm Đu Đủ lets you bring Hanoi’s flavors home, while Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly food tours offer a chance to taste it authentically 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, Ba Đình District now Ba Đình Ward, and Hai Bà Trưng District now Hai Bà Trưng District under Hanoi City’s administration. This streamlines navigation to Nộm Đu Đủ 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 and Ba Đình Wards, tailored for travelers seeking authentic culinary experiences. Our tours use low-impact transport like cyclos, led by English-speaking guides who share Nộm Đu Đủ’s cultural roots, preparation secrets, 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 Nộm Đu Đủ responsibly! TripAdvisor Reviews

Nộm Đu Đủ, a northern Vietnamese dish, likely evolved from Hanoi’s street food culture, blending Southeast Asian influences with local ingredients. Unlike sweeter southern Gỏi Đu Đủ or Thai Som Tam, Hanoi’s version emphasizes unripe green papaya’s crunch and a fish sauce-based dressing, often paired with dried beef (bò khô) for a chewy, spicy-sweet depth. The dish reflects Hanoi’s preference for fresh, light flavors, served at communal gatherings, from casual outings to weddings, fostering social bonds. In Hoan Kiem Ward, vendors toss the salad fresh, ensuring vibrant textures, and use eco-friendly reusable plates, supporting sustainability. In Hanoi’s tropical monsoon climate (dry season: November–April, 15–28°C or 59–82.4°F; rainy season: May–October, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F), Nộm Đu Đủ’s cool, crisp nature is a refreshing delight, offering a taste of Hanoi’s culinary artistry.

Recreate Hanoi’s Nộm Đu Đủ at home with this authentic recipe, designed for two servings. This northern-style version includes dried beef, a hallmark of Hanoi’s street stalls, and uses accessible ingredients while staying true to tradition.

Ingredients (Serves 2)

• Green Papaya: 1 small (300g), unripe, firm, vibrant green ($0.50–$1 or 12,500–25,000 VND at Asian markets or Dong Xuan Market).

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

• Dried Beef (Bò Khô): 50g, thinly sliced or shredded ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND at Vietnamese markets or online).

• Roasted Peanuts: 2 tbsp, crushed ($0.20 or 5,000 VND).

• Fresh Herbs: 1 cup mixed Thai basil, mint, perilla, and Vietnamese coriander (rau răm), roughly chopped ($0.50 or 12,500 VND).

• Dressing:

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

  • Lime juice: 3 tbsp (1–2 limes, $0.20 or 5,000 VND).

  • Sugar: 2 tsp ($0.05 or 1,250 VND).

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

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

  • Water: 1 tbsp.

• Optional Sides: Sticky rice ($0.80 or 20,000 VND) or nem chua (fermented pork rolls, $0.80 or 20,000 VND). Total Cost: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) for two servings.

Equipment

• Julienne peeler or mandoline for shredding papaya and carrots (available at Asian stores or online for $5–$15 or 125,000–375,000 VND).

• Mixing bowl or mortar and pestle (optional for dressing).

• Knife and cutting board.

Instructions (Prep Time: 15–20 minutes)

1. Prepare the Green Papaya:

   • Peel the green papaya’s skin. Halve lengthwise, remove seeds, and julienne into thin strips using a julienne peeler or mandoline. Soak in cold, salted water for 10 minutes to remove sap and enhance crunch, then drain and pat dry.

   • Julienne the carrot similarly.

2. Make the Dressing:

   • In a small bowl or mortar, combine minced garlic, chopped chili, sugar, lime juice, fish sauce, and water. Stir until sugar dissolves, or lightly pound in a mortar for deeper flavor. Adjust with more lime or chili to taste.

3. Assemble the Salad:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine julienned papaya, carrots, dried beef, and half the herbs. Pour the dressing over and toss thoroughly to coat evenly, ensuring the papaya absorbs the flavors. Let sit for 5 minutes.

4. Serve:

   • Transfer to a serving plate. Top with crushed peanuts, remaining herbs, and optional fried shallots ($0.20 or 5,000 VND). Serve immediately for maximum freshness, with sticky rice or nem chua on the side.

   • For eco-friendly serving, use reusable plates or bamboo bowls.

Tips for Success

• Choose the Right Papaya: Select a firm, vibrant green papaya with smooth skin. Avoid pale or yellowish ones, as they’re ripening and less crisp.

• Dried Beef Substitute: If bò khô is unavailable, use pork jerky, turkey jerky, or fried tofu for a vegetarian option.

• Herb Variations: Thai basil and mint are essential, but Vietnamese coriander (rau răm) adds authenticity if available.

• Eco-Friendly Prep: Use reusable tools (e.g., stainless steel peelers) and compost vegetable scraps to minimize waste.

• Storage: Store leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 1 day, but flavors fade quickly. Avoid making large batches.

While making Nộm Đu Đủ at home is rewarding, tasting it at 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 salads for $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND):

1. Nộm Đu Đủ Long Vi Dung (23 Hò Hoàn Kiếm, Hoan Kiem Ward)

A Michelin-recognized stall, famous for crunchy papaya and chewy beef, best at 3:00 PM. Uses reusable plates.

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

• Hours: Daily, 2:00 PM–8:00 PM.

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

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

2. Nộm Đu Đủ Hai Sinh (57A Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Hoan Kiem Ward)

A vibrant spot near Hoan Kiem Lake with boiled beef, best at 4:00 PM. Eco-friendly reusable trays.

• Cost: $1.50–$2 (37,500–50,000 VND); lime juice $0.40 (10,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 2:00 PM–9:00 PM.

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

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

3. Nộm Đu Đủ Bà Già (Thanh Hà Alley, Ô Quan Chưởng, Hoan Kiem Ward)

A historic alley stall with tangy dressing, best at 3:00 PM. Eco-friendly reusable bowls.

• Cost: $1–$1.50 (25,000–37,500 VND); quẩy $0.20 (5,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 3:00 PM–6:00 PM.

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

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

4. Nộm Đu Đủ Tạ Hiện (20 Tạ Hiện, Hoan Kiem Ward)

A nightlife hub favorite with zesty dressing, best at 5:00 PM. Eco-friendly reusable plates.

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

• Hours: Daily, 3:00 PM–10:00 PM.

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

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

5. Nộm Đu Đủ Hàng Mành (43 Hàng Mành, Hoan Kiem Ward)

A cozy spot with crunchy peanuts, best at 3:00 PM. Eco-friendly reusable trays.

• Cost: $1–$1.50 (25,000–37,500 VND); trà đá $0.20 (5,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 2:00 PM–7:00 PM.

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

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

Whether homemade or at a stall, savor Nộm Đu Đủ authentically with these Hanoian practices:

1. Toss Thoroughly: Mix ingredients with dressing using chopsticks for even flavor.

2. Eat Fresh: Enjoy immediately after tossing for maximum crunch.

3. Balance Flavors: Add lime or chili for tang or heat; wrap bites in basil or perilla.

4. Sides: Pair with trà đá ($0.20 or 5,000 VND), sticky rice ($0.80 or 20,000 VND), or nem chua ($0.80 or 20,000 VND). Eco-Friendly Tip: Use reusable plates; compost herb stems to reduce waste.

Enhance your Nộm Đu Đủ journey with these sustainable activities in Hoan Kiem Ward:

1. Nộm Đu Đủ Tasting Tour

Join a 2–3-hour eco-friendly tour via cyclos, tasting Nộm Đu Đủ at Long Vi Dung at 3:00 PM, learning salad-tossing techniques.

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

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–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, 1.5 km from Hoan Kiem) for Nộm Đu Đủ ingredients, 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 Nộm Đu Đủ 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 (1 km from Nộm Đu Đủ stalls) post-snack at 5:00 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. Sample Vegan Street Food

Taste bánh mì chay near Nộm Đu Đủ stalls at 4:00 PM, a 30–60-minute sustainable activity.

• Cost: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND) per dish.

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–10:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Biodegradable packaging; local vendors.

• Top Spot: Vegan Banh Mi (11 Phùng Hưng, Hoan Kiem Ward).

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

Nộm Đu Đủ stalls in Hoan Kiem Ward are accessible in 10–15 minutes from central Hanoi, using sustainable options:

• By Bus: Routes 01, 09, or 14 to Hoan Kiem spots (10–15 min, $0.30–$0.50 or 7,000–12,000 VND). Walk 5–10 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 to Hoan Kiem spots (5–10 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 10 minutes to Hoan Kiem spots.

• By Taxi or Grab: To Hoan Kiem spots, $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 Hoan Kiem ($12–$15 or 300,000–375,000 VND).Navigation Tip: Use offline maps (Maps.me) with addresses (e.g., “23 Hò Hoàn Kiếm, 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 peeler ($5–$15 or 125,000–375,000 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 bowls 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 Nộm Đu Đủ Experience

Food and Drink Fees (Home Preparation or Dining)

• Nộm Đu Đủ (home, serves 2): $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND).

• Nộm Đu Đủ (stalls): $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); extra toppings (dried beef) $1.50–$2 (37,500–50,000 VND).

• Sides (trà đá, sticky rice): $0.20–$0.80 (5,000–20,000 VND).

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

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

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

• Ngoc Son Temple (Hoan Kiem): $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, Nộm Đu Đủ, 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 (2:00–5:00 PM) for freshest ingredients; dry season (November–April) for outdoor stalls, rainy season (May–October) for covered spots with discounts.

• 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 “23 Hò Hoàn Kiếm, 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 Nộm Đu Đủ; apply mosquito repellent in Hanoi.

Our sustainable tours showcase Hoan Kiem Ward’s Nộm Đu Đủ culture:

• Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Cyclo ride to Nộm Đu Đủ Long Vi Dung at 3:00 PM, Nộm Đu Đủ tasting, Dong Xuan Market visit. Includes English-speaking guide, cyclo.

• Hanoi Cultural Food Tour ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Nộm Đu Đủ Bà Già, Hoan Kiem Lake, vegan cooking class, homestay ($20–$50/night). Includes meals, guide.

• Hanoi & Son Tay Immersion ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Top Nộm Đu Đủ spots, Son Tay Citadel, Ba Vi National Park, 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

Nộm Đu Đủ, Hanoi’s vibrant green papaya salad, is a culinary gem you can recreate at home for $3–$5 or savor in Hoan Kiem Ward for $1–$2 at iconic stalls like Nộm Đu Đủ Long Vi Dung. Its crisp textures, tangy-sweet dressing, and health benefits make it a beloved Hanoian snack, served with eco-friendly reusable plates and local ingredients. Whether mastering the recipe or exploring Hanoi’s street food scene, Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Tours guide you to the heart of Nộm Đu Đủ’s heritage, ensuring a sustainable Hanoi Travel experience filled with flavor and culture. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your culinary journey today!
Ready to make or savor Hanoi’s iconic Nộm Đu Đủ? 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, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights and guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Source: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group.