🍲 Pho (Vietnam)

1. The History of Pho

Pho (pronounced “fuh”) is Vietnam’s most iconic dish, a fragrant noodle soup that embodies comfort and culture. It originated in northern Vietnam around the early 20th century, particularly in Hanoi. Influenced by French and Chinese cooking, Pho combined the French love of broth with local rice noodles and Southeast Asian spices.

As Vietnam evolved through history, Pho became a symbol of resilience and unity. It spread to southern Vietnam (Saigon) after 1954, where the recipe took on a slightly sweeter and richer flavor profile. Today, it’s served and celebrated worldwide as one of the best comfort foods ever created.

2. Types of Pho

• Pho Bo: Beef Pho — the most traditional version, made with slow-simmered beef bones.
• Pho Ga: Chicken Pho — a lighter, more delicate variation.
• Pho Chay: Vegetarian Pho — made with tofu and vegetable broth.

3. Key Ingredients

• 1 kg beef bones (marrow or knuckle bones)
• 300 g rice noodles (bánh phở)
• 200 g beef slices (sirloin or brisket)
• 1 large onion and a 5 cm piece of ginger (charred)
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4 star anise pods
• 3 cloves
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• Salt to taste
• Fresh herbs: cilantro, Thai basil, and mint
• Lime wedges, bean sprouts, and chili slices for garnish

4. How to Make Authentic Pho (Step-by-Step)

1. Prepare the broth: Rinse beef bones and simmer them in water for 10 minutes. Drain, rinse, and start a fresh pot with 4 liters of water.
2. Char aromatics: Roast onion and ginger until blackened for deep flavor, then add to the pot.
3. Add spices: Place star anise, cinnamon, and cloves in a spice bag. Add to the broth and simmer gently for 4–6 hours.
4. Season: Add fish sauce, sugar, and salt to balance flavor.
5. Prepare noodles: Soak rice noodles in hot water for 5–6 minutes until soft, then drain.
6. Assemble: Place noodles in a bowl, top with raw beef slices, and pour boiling broth over to cook them slightly.
7. Garnish: Add herbs, lime, chili, and bean sprouts to taste.

5. The Secret to a Perfect Pho

The secret lies in the broth. A great Pho broth should be clear, fragrant, and rich in umami without being greasy. Charred aromatics add smokiness, while star anise and cinnamon bring depth. Simmering the bones slowly (never boiling) creates a naturally sweet, pure flavor.

6. Health Benefits

Pho is both nutritious and comforting. The broth is full of minerals and collagen, herbs provide antioxidants, and the noodles offer energy. It’s light yet filling, making it a perfect balance of health and flavor.

7. Pho Around the World

From Hanoi’s street stalls to Michelin-starred restaurants, Pho has become an ambassador of Vietnamese culture. In the United States, Australia, and Europe, Pho restaurants have flourished, each offering their regional twist — but the soul of Vietnam remains in every steaming bowl.