Description
Experience the comforting warmth of authentic Pho Ga, a traditional Vietnamese chicken noodle soup that captivates with its aromatic broth and delightful toppings. This flavorful dish offers a delicious alternative for those who prefer chicken over beef, allowing you to savor a true Vietnamese culinary experience right at home. Let’s dive into how to create this satisfying bowl of goodness!
Ingredients
- For the Broth:
- 3 lbs chicken (preferably a mix of thighs and drumsticks)
- 1 large onion, charred
- 1 piece of ginger (3 inches), charred
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
- 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
- For the Soup:
- 1 lb dried rice noodles
- Fresh herbs (cilantro, basil)
- Green onions, sliced
- Lime wedges
- Fresh chili, sliced
- Bean sprouts
Instructions
1. Prepare the Broth
In a large pot, combine 3 lbs of chicken (preferably a mix of thighs and drumsticks), 1 large charred onion, 1 piece of charred ginger (3 inches), 2 tablespoons of fish sauce, 1 tablespoon of salt, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of coriander seeds, and 1 teaspoon of fennel seeds. Fill the pot with water to cover all the ingredients and bring it to a boil.
2. Simmer the Broth
Once the mixture reaches a boil, skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface. Reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours until your kitchen is filled with a wonderful aroma.
3. Shred the Chicken
When the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender, carefully remove it from the pot. Allow it to cool slightly before shredding the meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding the skin and bones. Strain the broth to remove any solids.
4. Prepare the Rice Noodles
Prepare 1 lb of dried rice noodles according to the package instructions. This usually involves a quick soak and rinse to soften them.
5. Assemble the Pho
In a large bowl, place a generous amount of the prepared rice noodles, then top with the shredded chicken. Pour the piping hot broth over the noodles and chicken to warm everything up.
6. Garnish
Garnish the pho with fresh herbs such as cilantro and basil, a squeeze of lime, a sprinkle of sliced green onions, and fresh chili if desired. Finally, add a handful of crunchy bean sprouts for texture.
Notes
Flavor Enhancements
Consider adding star anise or cardamom to the broth for additional depth of flavor.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover broth and chicken separately. The broth can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for longer storage.
Serving Suggestion
Serve with extra lime wedges and chili on the side for guests to customize their bowls according to their taste.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours