Cháo
Cháo is a savory Vietnamese rice porridge, typically made by slow-cooking rice in a large pot of broth until it breaks down into a thick, creamy consistency. It is often flavored with ginger and served with toppings like shredded chicken (cháo gà), pork, or fish, along with fresh herbs, fried shallots, and a side of lime or chili.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Cháo is primarily a high-carbohydrate dish due to the rice base, providing a good source of energy and easily digestible calories, typically ranging from 200-350 calories per serving depending on the toppings and broth richness. It also offers hydration and electrolytes from the broth, along with protein and essential minerals from the meat or fish additions.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 4.5 g |
| Carbs | 28 g |
| Fat | 2 g |
| Fiber | 1.5 g |
| Sugar | 0.5 g |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
| Potassium | 180 mg |
| Phosphorus | 80 mg |
| Magnesium | 20 mg |
| Iron | 1.5 mg |
| Zinc | 0.8 mg |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | 1.2 mg |
| Folate | 30 µg |
Per 1 bowl (300 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, cháo is deeply embedded in Vietnamese daily life as a comforting, versatile meal often eaten for breakfast, as a late-night snack, or as a restorative food for the sick. Nutritionally, its soft, porridge-like texture makes it exceptionally gentle on the digestive system, which is why it's a common choice for recovery and for young children or the elderly.
AI estimate may be inaccurate · Terms