Authentic Vietnamese Chicken Pho Recipe

Pho, a popular Vietnamese noodle soup, is a flavorful and comforting dish enjoyed worldwide. This authentic Vietnamese chicken pho recipe stays true to tradition, featuring a rich broth infused with fragrant herbs and spices, tender chicken, and fresh rice noodles. Follow these steps to create a delicious bowl of homemade pho that will impress your friends and family.

Ingredients: - 1 whole chicken, about 3-4 pounds - 1 onion, peeled and halved - 3-inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced - 2 cinnamon sticks - 3 star anise - 4 cloves - 1 teaspoon coriander seeds - 1 teaspoon fennel seeds - 6 cups water - 2 tablespoons fish sauce - 1 tablespoon sugar - Salt, to taste - 8 ounces dried rice noodles - Garnishes: bean sprouts, lime wedges, fresh cilantro, Thai basil, thinly sliced chili peppers, hoisin sauce, and sriracha

Instructions:

1. Char the onion and ginger: Place the halved onion and sliced ginger on a baking sheet under the broiler for about 10 minutes until charred. Alternatively, char them over an open flame if you have a gas stovetop.

2. Toast the spices: In a dry pot, toast the cinnamon sticks, star anise, cloves, coriander seeds, and fennel seeds over medium heat until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

3. Make the broth: Add the water, charred onion, charred ginger, toasted spices, and whole chicken to a large stockpot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1.5-2 hours, skimming off any impurities that rise to the surface.

4. Season the broth: Add fish sauce, sugar, and salt to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.

5. Prepare the noodles: Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

6. Assemble the bowls: Divide the cooked noodles among serving bowls. Top with shredded chicken meat picked off the bones.

7. Ladle the hot broth over the noodles and chicken.

8. Garnish the pho: Serve the bowls with bean sprouts, lime wedges, fresh cilantro, Thai basil, sliced chili peppers, hoisin sauce, and sriracha on the side for each person to customize their bowl.

9. Enjoy your homemade authentic Vietnamese chicken pho!

This recipe captures the essence of traditional Vietnamese cuisine, offering a warm and aromatic soup that will transport you to the bustling streets of Hanoi. Give it a try and savor the authentic flavors of Vietnamese chicken pho in the comfort of your own home.