Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step 1: Char the Aromatics
- Start by heating the oil in a large pot over high heat. Once hot, place the halved onions and ginger, face down, and let them sit undisturbed. You want them to develop a nice char. After about 2 minutes, flip them over and let them blacken for another 2 minutes. This step builds a smoky, rich flavor that enhances the broth beautifully.
Step 2: Add Water and Broth Ingredients
- Once your aromatics are charred, add the water and all the broth ingredients—except for the salt—to the pot. These spices will infuse the water as it simmers, creating the fragrant base of your pho. Bring it to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat so it simmers slowly, covering with a lid slightly ajar to allow steam to escape, for about 1.5 hours.
Step 3: Remove the Scum
- As the broth simmers, you may notice some scum that rises to the surface. It’s important to skim this off occasionally with a ladle to ensure your broth stays clear and clean-tasting.
Step 4: Strain and Measure the Broth
- After simmering, carefully remove the chicken thighs from the pot. Strain the broth into a clean pot to filter out the spices and pieces of charred aromatics. You should have about 1.5 liters of broth. If it’s too much, simmer to reduce; if it’s less, add a bit of water.
Step 5: Season the Broth
- Return the strained broth to medium heat and add the salt. Give it a taste; it should be slightly on the salty side since the noodles will dilute the flavor. Let it gently simmer and stay warm until you're ready to serve.
Step 6: Shred the Chicken
- While the broth is simmering, shred the cooked chicken meat, removing bones and skin. This will be the tender base for your noodle bowls.
Step 7: Assemble Your Bowls
- When you’re ready to serve, lay out your toppings nicely. You can briefly reheat the chicken by dunking it back into the broth. Prepare the rice noodles according to the package instructions, but make sure to drain them well to avoid diluting your broth.
- In serving bowls, place a generous portion of noodles, topped with shredded chicken. Ladle approximately 375ml of broth over each bowl and garnish with sliced green onions. Now, it’s time for your guests or family to customize their bowls with as many toppings as they like. Don’t forget the squeeze of fresh lime!
Nutrition
Notes
- Quality Ingredients Matter: Opt for fresh chicken and spices for the best flavor.
- Prepping Ahead: You can make the broth a day in advance. Just refrigerate it and reheat when you are ready to serve.
- Customize Your Toppings: Everyone has different tastes. Set up a toppings bar with herbs, sauces, and extra veggies.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh herbs enhance the flavors tremendously; don’t skimp on them!
- Taste as You Go: Always adjust seasoning to your preference, especially with salt and fish sauce.