A comprehensive guide to the popular Vietnamese noodle soup, Pho.

Across the globe, pho, a type of soup originating from Vietnam, has gained popularity among broth lovers. This soup consists of a Vietnamese bone broth that includes noodles, meats, and a variety of vegetables and herbs, offering consumers a delightful spoonful of savory flavors.

Discover the history and variations of the Vietnamese national dish, pho, and learn how to enhance your pho experience to new levels.

What is pho?

Pho, which is pronounced as "fuh," is a Vietnamese national dish with origins dating back to either the late 19th or early 20th century in the northern regions of Vietnam.

According to Food Network, Pho is a broth that is slow-simmered, usually made with beef bones, and served with rice noodles, protein (such as beef, chicken or plant-based protein), and toppings.

While Pho is often associated with Vietnamese cuisine for many Americans, the dish encompasses a more complex culinary story beyond its noodles, broth, and toppings.

What is the secret ingredient in pho?

An authentic pho broth is made with beef or chicken bones, charred onions, ginger, and a mix of spices, including star anise, cloves, and cinnamon.

This broth, simmered for hours, captures the essence of pho, creating a rich and savory base that sets this iconic dish apart. Nevertheless, there are numerous local and regional variations of the dish.

According to Food Republic, northern Vietnamese pho typically have clear broths, while southern Vietnamese broths are cloudy and sweeter.

The secret ingredient for pho is already included in a typical recipe, according to lovingpho.com. Apart from using the right amount of spices and flavoring with proper techniques, the best way to ensure a good pho broth is by using the right amount of beef bones and possibly adding oxtails. Additionally, the right amount of time and technique should be used to make the broth.

What is the most popular pho dish?

The two most popular options for pho are beef (pho bo) and chicken (pho ga).

1. Pho bo

The beef used in pho bo is typically served medium-rare and further cooked in the warm broth. Various beef options are available, such as flank steak, brisket, beef tendons, meatballs, and fatty cuts.

2. Pho ga

The chicken soup contains chicken, vegetables, basil, bean sprouts, chili, scallions, and coriander.

Both soups are commonly topped with chili sauce, lime, and hoisin sauce, a sweet and spicy condiment made from soybeans, sugar, garlic, and vinegar.

How to order and eat pho for beginners?

To effectively tackle a steaming bowl of pho, hold chopsticks in one hand and a soupspoon in the other, according to lovingpho.com.

Customize your pho adventure by experimenting with condiments such as lime, hoisin sauce and Sriracha. With each careful slurp and bite, you'll unravel the art of this Vietnamese delicacy.

According to phogavang.com, when consuming pho, traditional Vietnamese etiquette requires the use of chopsticks and a large spoon. To keep your soup warm, avoid lifting the bowl off the table and instead lean forward in your chair to fully enjoy the flavors.