Real Vietnamese Cooking combines the collective culinary wisdom of three intrepid food explorers who spent many years training with Vietnam's best chefs while scouring city streets and country kitchens in search of tastes few foreigners experience. It introduces readers to local takes on classic dishes, as well as lesser-known favorites--all delicious and accessible, made with easy-to-find ingredients. Filled with 88 recipes, this cookbook will give you a taste of the varied flavors of this coastal country.

Along the way, in between bites, you'll also learn the origins and background of Vietnam's rich culinary development. With personal anecdotes from the authors, you'll get an inside look at Vietnam's unique culture and why it is becoming such a popular travel destination.

From the French colonial influence to the contributions of Asian immigrant groups, you'll learn about:

• The ever evolving Banh Mi sandwich
• The surprisingly short history of pho
• The complex crafting of noodles
• The foodie flair of the next generation of young chefs
• The nation's exploding craft-beer scene
• The amazing variety of dishes served at working class lunch counters