Penulis Pho is a Vietnamese noodle soup consisting of broth, rice noodles (bánh phở), herbs, and meat, typically beef or chicken. It’s known for its aromatic flavors and is often garnished with ingredients like lime, bean sprouts, and basil.
Pho is a staple of Vietnamese cuisine and can be enjoyed at any time of day. Pho is traditionally made by simmering bones (usually beef or chicken) for several hours to create a rich, flavorful broth. The broth is seasoned with spices like star anise, cloves, cinnamon, and ginger.
When serving, the cooked noodles are placed in a bowl, topped with thinly sliced meat (which may cook in the hot broth), and garnished with fresh herbs, lime wedges, and sometimes chili. There are regional variations as well, such as Pho Bắc (northern) and Pho Sài Gòn (southern), each with distinct flavor profiles and ingredients.
Pho is not only a popular street food but also a beloved comfort dish enjoyed around the world. In addition to the classic beef and chicken versions, pho can also include variations like seafood or vegetarian options, using ingredients such as tofu and vegetables.
The dish is often accompanied by condiments like hoisin sauce, sriracha, and fish sauce, allowing diners to customize their flavor profile. Pho is deeply intertwined with Vietnamese culture, often enjoyed as a communal meal.
It’s common for families to gather around a pot of broth, each person adding their preferred ingredients and garnishes. Beyond its delicious taste, pho is also praised for its health benefits, thanks to the nourishing broth and fresh herbs.
It has gained international popularity, becoming a symbol of Vietnamese cuisine and often found in restaurants and food stalls worldwide. Here's a simple recipe for making pho at home:
Ingredients:
For the Broth:
- 1-2 pounds shrimp shells (from raw shrimp)
- 1 onion, halved
- 1 piece ginger (about 3 inches), sliced
- 5-6 star anise
- 4-5 cloves
- 1 stick cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
- 1-2 tablespoons fish sauce
- Salt to taste
- Water (about 4-5 quarts)
For the Soup:
- 1 pound rice noodles (bánh phở)
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Fresh herbs (basil, cilantro, mint)
- Bean sprouts
- Lime wedges
- Sliced jalapeños or chili (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broth
- In a large pot, combine shrimp shells, onion, ginger, and spices. Add water and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for about 30-45 minutes, skimming off any impurities.
- Strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve into another pot, discarding solids. Add fish sauce and salt to taste.
2. Cook the Noodles
- Prepare rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Cook the Shrimp
- In the strained broth, bring it back to a gentle boil. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Assemble the Bowls
- Place cooked noodles in bowls. Top with cooked shrimp.
- Ladle hot broth over the noodles and shrimp.
5. Garnish
- Garnish with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and optional jalapeños.
6. Serve:
- Serve hot, allowing diners to customize their bowls with additional condiments.
Enjoy your shrimp pho!
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