What Is Ngo Om?
A Vietnamese herb with a distinctive citrusy, cumin-like, and slightly camphoraceous flavor, essential in many sour soups and curries.
What Does Ngo Om Taste Like?
Ngo Om has a citrusy, cumin, slightly peppery, camphoraceous, menthol taste with pungent, lemon-peppery, earthy aromas.
- Taste
- Citrusy, Cumin, Slightly Peppery, Camphoraceous, Menthol
- Texture
- Succulent, Tender
- Aroma
- Pungent, Lemon-Peppery, Earthy
- Acidity
- Low
Technical Metrics
Nutrition Facts
Per 5 g (small bunch)Chef’s Secret
Like most delicate herbs, add Ngo Om to soups and dishes in the last few minutes of cooking or as a fresh garnish to preserve its distinct aroma and flavor.
Ngo Om Substitutes & Ratios
The best substitute for Ngo Om is Culantro + Lemon Zest, used at a 1:1 culantro, 1/4 tsp zest ratio. Culantro provides a strong, earthy base, while lemon zest adds the crucial citrusy brightness.
| Substitute | Ratio | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Culantro + Lemon Zest Best | 1:1 culantro, 1/4 tsp zest | Culantro provides a strong, earthy base, while lemon zest adds the crucial citrusy brightness. |
| Mexican Tarragon (Mexican Marigold Mint) | 1:1 | Offers an anise-like, slightly peppery flavor that can mimic some of Ngo Om's aromatic qualities. |
| Fresh Mint + Small pinch of Cumin | 1:1 mint, pinch cumin | Mint brings freshness, and a tiny amount of ground cumin can provide a hint of the characteristic warm spice. |
| Vietnamese Balm (Kinh Gioi) | 1:1 | While different, it offers a distinct lemony-minty flavor profile common in Vietnamese cuisine. |
How to Choose & Store Ngo Om
- Look for firm, unblemished stems and bright green leaves.
- Avoid any yellowing or slimy parts.
- Store like other fresh herbs.
What Pairs Well With Ngo Om?
- Vietnamese sour soups (Canh Chua)
- curries
- hot pots
- seafood
- grilled meats
- tamarind
- pineapple.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Ngo Om taste like?
Citrusy, Cumin, Slightly Peppery, Camphoraceous, Menthol Pungent, Lemon-Peppery, Earthy
What is a good substitute for Ngo Om?
The best substitute is Culantro + Lemon Zest (1:1 culantro, 1/4 tsp zest). Culantro provides a strong, earthy base, while lemon zest adds the crucial citrusy brightness.
How do you choose and store Ngo Om?
Look for firm, unblemished stems and bright green leaves. Avoid any yellowing or slimy parts. Store like other fresh herbs.