If there's one Vietnamese dish that I'm sure needs no introduction, it's pho! This warm and fragrant noodle soup is loved all over the world! A steaming bowl of pho is comforting, flavorful, and somehow feels just right any time of the day!
At its heart, pho is all about the broth and the noodles! The broth is simmered for hours with beef bones, ginger, onions, and spices until it’s rich and aromatic! Then come the noodles—flat rice noodles known as bánh phở! They’re soft yet springy, soaking up all the flavor from the broth while giving pho its signature texture!
Pho isn’t the same everywhere in Vietnam! Northern pho, or Phở Bắc, is lighter and more delicate! Usually, it’s eaten without much added on top—maybe just a splash of vinegar or some sliced chili!
But Southern pho, or Phở Nam, is bolder and more robust! People often add hoisin sauce and chili sauce, either mixed into the soup or used as dips for the meat! Two regions, two very different bowls, but both so delicious!
And here’s something I find a bit funny! A topping that people outside Vietnam often put in their pho is sriracha! And you might be thinking, do people in Vietnam really put sriracha in their pho?
Well, they don’t! Traditionally, pho is meant to be enjoyed with its delicate balance of broth and fresh garnishes, without heavy sauces! Still, it has become a popular add-on around the world, and if you like the kick, why not!
Pho also has a fascinating history! It first appeared in northern Vietnam in the early 20th century! As people moved south, it spread and took on new flavors! From there, pho traveled across the globe, and now you can find it in restaurants almost everywhere!
So next time you sit down with a steaming bowl of pho, take a moment to notice the details! The flat rice noodles! The layers of broth! The fresh herbs and toppings! Each bowl carries a story of culture, history, and comfort—all in one spoonful!
Best regards, Gembira
Here to make your soul happy!