Pho, for many, is more than just a meal—it’s a cultural experience, and there are some strong opinions out there on the “right” way to eat it. Some pho enthusiasts believe that adding sauces like Hoisin or Sriracha without tasting the broth first is a cardinal sin. Others swear by the perfect balance of flavors, swishing the noodles gently and pairing them with the freshest toppings. The truth is, everyone has their own way of enjoying pho, and while there may not be a one-size-fits-all rule, there are certainly some tips and tricks to elevate your pho experience.
In this article, we’ll look at the nuances of pho etiquette, such as how to correctly taste the soup and how to best appreciate all of the tasty toppings. Whether you’re a pho rookie or a seasoned pro, we’ll teach you how to consume pho so you can enjoy every delicious slurp!
How To Eat Pho Like A Pro!
When it comes to pho, there’s no right or wrong way to enjoy it—just do it your way! Whether with a knowledgeable friend or venturing into a pho shop solo for the first time, eating pho is all about personal preference and enjoying the experience.
Unlike Western or Japanese cuisine, there’s no strict etiquette to follow—it’s all about slurping and savoring! Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Start with the Broth: Use your soup spoon to sip the savory broth. Take a moment to appreciate the flavor before diving in.
- Grab the Noodles: With chopsticks in hand, grab some rice noodles. They should slurp up easily into your mouth.
- Add Your Ingredients: Use your chopsticks to select pieces of meat or other ingredients, then enjoy them individually or mix them with the broth and noodles.
Toppings & Garnishes:
When you order Southern-style pho, you’ll normally receive a plate of fresh garnishes to personalize your meal. This could include bean sprouts, Thai basil, cilantro, lime wedges, and chili peppers, as well as hoisin and chili sauces. There is no fixed rule for when or how to add these—experiment with different combinations to find your ideal mix!
- Bean sprouts: Add them as you go for a crisp bite, or cook them all together in the boiling broth. Just be aware that adding too many sprouts at once will chill your soup.
- Chili peppers: Dip them into the heated soup to release their oils and enhance the flavor. Thai peppers can add extra heat, so be adventurous if you like it spicy!
- Lime: Some people insist on a squeeze of lime. It provides a lovely acidity to the broth, which balances off the richness and allows you to customize the flavor.
- Herbs: Don’t put all of your basil and cilantro in at once! Tear off small pieces and add them as you go to preserve the fresh aroma and flavor.
Pho is intended to be a joyful and savory experience. Relax, savor the slurps, and discover your ideal pho combination—it’s an experience every time!
Eat Pho With Vifon!
When it comes to making pho, the benefit of cooking with Vifon is that you may have a restaurant-quality bowl at home, according to your preferences. Whether you’re craving a hearty beef pho or a lighter chicken version, all you have to do is grab a packet or bowl of Vifon pho, select your flavor, and start cooking!
With Vifon, you may enjoy the convenience of a quick and easy supper without sacrificing flavor. You may have the same depth of broth and excellent noodles as a restaurant, but with the freedom to add as much (or as little) of each item as you choose.
Vifon makes it simple to have pho that is not just quick, but also excellent and adaptable to your mood or cravings. Plus, it’s budget-friendly—no need to spend time and money at a pho restaurant when you can make your perfect bowl in the comfort of your own home.
