Pho is a traditional Vietnamese dish known for its aromatic broth, delicate rice noodles, fresh herbs, and tender meat, typically either beef (pho bo) or chicken (pho ga). The origins of pho trace back to the early 20th century in northern Vietnam, where it evolved from a fusion of Chinese and French culinary influences.

The recipe for pho involves simmering bones (often beef or chicken) with aromatic spices like star anise, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger for hours to develop a rich and flavorful broth. Thinly sliced meat is added just before serving, cooking in the hot broth. The dish is then assembled with cooked rice noodles, the hot broth, and a garnish of fresh herbs like cilantro, Thai basil, and bean sprouts. Diners often customize their pho with additional condiments like hoisin sauce, sriracha, and lime juice.

Pho has gained widespread popularity both in Vietnam and internationally, becoming a beloved comfort food known for its complex yet comforting flavors and nourishing qualities. Its evolution and adaptation in various regions have led to diverse interpretations and styles, making it a versatile and endlessly customizable dish.

Ingredients:

- 1 pound beef bones (for pho bo) or chicken bones (for pho ga)

- 6 cups water

- 1 onion, peeled and halved

- 2-inch piece of ginger, sliced

- 2-3 star anise pods

- 2-3 cloves

- 1 cinnamon stick

- 1 tablespoon fish sauce

- Salt, to taste

- 8 ounces rice noodles

- Thinly sliced beef or shredded chicken (cooked)

- Fresh herbs (cilantro, Thai basil)

- Bean sprouts

- Lime wedges

- Hoisin sauce and sriracha (optional)

Method:

1. Prepare the Broth:

  - In a large pot, add the beef or chicken bones, water, onion, ginger, star anise, cloves, cinnamon stick, fish sauce, and salt.

  - Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for at least 1-2 hours (longer for richer flavor), skimming any impurities that rise to the surface.

2. Cook the Noodles:

  - Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions until al dente.

  - Rinse under cold water and set aside.

3. Assemble the Pho:

  - Strain the broth to remove the solids, then return it to the pot and bring it back to a simmer.

  - Divide the cooked noodles among serving bowls and top with the sliced beef or shredded chicken.

4. Serve:

  - Ladle the hot broth over the noodles and meat in each bowl.

  - Serve with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and optional condiments like hoisin sauce and sriracha on the side.

This recipe keeps the ingredients and method straightforward while ensuring an authentic and flavorful bowl of pho.

Nutrition Value:

1. Beef Bones or Chicken Bones:

  - Calories: Varies based on type and amount, typically around 150-250 calories per pound.

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible.

  - Protein: Varies, but approximately 15-25 grams per pound.

  - Fat: Varies, but approximately 5-15 grams per pound.

  - Sodium: Varies based on preparation, typically around 50-100 mg per pound.

  - Cholesterol: Varies based on type and amount, typically around 50-100 mg per pound.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Rich in collagen, which supports joint health and skin elasticity.

2. Water (6 cups):

  - Calories: 0.

  - Carbohydrates: 0.

  - Protein: 0.

  - Fat: 0.

  - Sodium: 0.

  - Cholesterol: 0.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Hydration and essential for cooking.

3. Onion:

  - Calories: Approximately 45 calories per medium-sized onion.

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 11 grams per medium onion.

  - Protein: Approximately 1 gram per medium onion.

  - Fat: Negligible.

  - Sodium: 5 mg per medium onion.

  - Cholesterol: 0.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Good source of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants.

4. Ginger (2-inch piece, sliced):

  - Calories: Approximately 10 calories.

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 2 grams.

  - Protein: Negligible.

  - Fat: Negligible.

  - Sodium: 0.

  - Cholesterol: 0.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Contains anti-inflammatory compounds and aids digestion.

5. Spices (Star Anise, Cloves, Cinnamon Stick):

  - Calories: Negligible.

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible.

  - Protein: Negligible.

  - Fat: Negligible.

  - Sodium: Negligible.

  - Cholesterol: 0.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Contains antioxidants and adds flavor without adding significant calories.

6. Fish Sauce (1 tablespoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 10-15 calories.

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 1-2 grams.

  - Protein: Approximately 1-2 grams.

  - Fat: Negligible.

  - Sodium: Approximately 1000-1500 mg.

  - Cholesterol: 0.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Adds umami flavor; a source of protein and sodium.

7. Salt (to taste):

  - Calories: 0.

  - Carbohydrates: 0.

  - Protein: 0.

  - Fat: 0.

  - Sodium: Varies based on amount added.

  - Cholesterol: 0.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Enhances flavor but should be used in moderation.

8. Rice Noodles (8 ounces):

  - Calories: Approximately 200-250 calories.

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 45-50 grams.

  - Protein: Approximately 5 grams.

  - Fat: Negligible.

  - Sodium: Varies based on preparation.

  - Cholesterol: 0.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides energy from carbohydrates.

9. Thinly Sliced Beef or Shredded Chicken (cooked):

  - Nutritional values vary based on type and cut of meat, but typically:

   - Calories: Varies, approximately 150-250 calories per serving.

   - Carbohydrates: Negligible.

   - Protein: Approximately 20-30 grams per serving.

   - Fat: Varies, approximately 5-15 grams per serving.

   - Sodium: Varies based on preparation.

   - Cholesterol: Varies, approximately 50-100 mg per serving.

10. Fresh Herbs (Cilantro, Thai Basil):

  - Calories: Negligible.

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible.

  - Protein: Negligible.

  - Fat: Negligible.

  - Sodium: Negligible.

  - Cholesterol: 0.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Good source of vitamins and antioxidants.

11. Bean Sprouts:

  - Calories: Approximately 30-50 calories per cup.

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10 grams per cup.

  - Protein: Approximately 3-5 grams per cup.

  - Fat: Negligible.

  - Sodium: 5-10 mg per cup.

  - Cholesterol: 0.

  - Nutritional Benefit: High in vitamins C and K, and a source of fiber.

12. Lime Wedges:

  - Calories: Approximately 5 calories per wedge.

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 2 grams per wedge.

  - Protein: Negligible.

  - Fat: Negligible.

  - Sodium: Negligible.

  - Cholesterol: 0.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Good source of vitamin C.

13. Hoisin Sauce and Sriracha (optional):

  - Nutritional values vary based on brand and serving size.

  - Calories, carbohydrates, protein, fat, sodium, cholesterol, and nutritional benefits depend on the specific product used.