Ingredient appreciation — what makes Goi Cuon special

What sets Goi Cuon apart is the handling of lemongrass. In lesser versions this is treated as a background note. Here it's central and the subtly sweet and spiced result shows it. I've started buying it to cook with at home after this experience.

Vietnamese cuisine shows French colonial influence alongside traditional Southeast Asian techniques. The a home cooking class atmosphere was right for this kind of food. I had Vietnamese iced coffee as recommended and it matched well. If you want to understand what makes this cuisine distinctive, Goi Cuon is the place to start.