It’s winter and you’re in search of some sugar, something sweet to give you some energy. What could be better than banh troi tau? Words by Jesse Meadows. Photos by Vu Bao Khanh

Chinese dumplings are far more than just dumplings. They’re lucky charms as well, perfect for the period before, during and after Tet. Words by Vi Pham. Photos by Owen Salisbury

On the trail of one of the capital’s favourite dishes, Huyen Tran checks out some of Hanoi’s best bun cha. But this is not the dish as you know it. Photos by Julie Vola

While most streetfood snacks are struggling to beat off competition from imported fast food — think donuts and frozen yoghurt — the merry banh ong la dua is still beating out a fine trade. Words by Vi Pham. Photos by Owen Salisbury

Baby black chicken served up in a broth with noodles. Could this be the Vietnamese version of that miracle cure, chicken soup? Words by Noey Neumark. Photos by Julie Vola

The Vietnamese version of the waffle has long been a street snack of choice. But as ‘fast food’ and ‘convenience stores’ take hold, so the demand for these tasty morsels is starting to wane. Words by Vi Pham. Photos by Francis Xavier

The Truc Bach area of Hanoi is known for far more than just its pho cuon joints. Deep-fried pho with beef sauce anyone? Words by Noey Neumark. Photos by Julie Vola