New Nordic Pho

Ingredients

While the original Vietnamese Pho is known for its rich and aromatic broth, the New Nordic Pho focuses on using locally sourced ingredients and lighter flavors. The traditional beef or chicken broth is replaced with a vegetable-based broth infused with Nordic herbs and spices. The toppings are also adapted to include Nordic vegetables and herbs, adding a fresh and vibrant touch to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Pho, so you can check it out.

• 8 cups (1.9 liters) vegetable broth 8 cups (1.9 liters) vegetable broth
• 2 onions, sliced 2 onions, sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2-inch (5 cm) piece of ginger, sliced 2-inch (5 cm) piece of ginger, sliced
• 2 cinnamon sticks 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4 star anise 4 star anise
• 4 cardamom pods 4 cardamom pods
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 8 ounces (225 grams) rice noodles 8 ounces (225 grams) rice noodles
• 1 cup (150 grams) shiitake mushrooms, sliced 1 cup (150 grams) shiitake mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cups (200 grams) bean sprouts 2 cups (200 grams) bean sprouts
• 1 cup (50 grams) fresh cilantro, chopped 1 cup (50 grams) fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 cup (50 grams) fresh mint leaves 1 cup (50 grams) fresh mint leaves
• 1 cup (50 grams) fresh dill, chopped 1 cup (50 grams) fresh dill, chopped
• 1 cup (50 grams) fresh chives, chopped 1 cup (50 grams) fresh chives, chopped
• 2 radishes, thinly sliced 2 radishes, thinly sliced
• 1 lime, cut into wedges 1 lime, cut into wedges
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 2g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 55g, 8g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, combine the vegetable broth, onions, garlic, ginger, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and cardamom pods. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
2. 2.
   Remove the spices and vegetables from the broth using a slotted spoon or strainer. Discard the solids.
3. 3.
   Stir in the soy sauce, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. 4.
   Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. 5.
   In a separate pan, sauté the shiitake mushrooms until they are tender and slightly browned.
6. 6.
   Divide the cooked rice noodles among serving bowls. Ladle the hot broth over the noodles.
7. 7.
   Top each bowl with sautéed mushrooms, bean sprouts, fresh herbs, radishes, and a squeeze of lime juice.
8. 8.
   Serve the New Nordic Pho immediately and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Rice noodles — Cook the noodles according to package instructions, but make sure not to overcook them as they can become mushy. Rinse them with cold water after cooking to prevent sticking.
• Shiitake mushrooms — Sauté the mushrooms over medium heat until they release their moisture and turn golden brown. This will enhance their flavor and add a nice texture to the dish.
• Fresh herbs — To keep the herbs fresh and vibrant, chop them just before serving and sprinkle them over the hot broth. This will release their aroma and add a burst of freshness to each bite.
• Radishes — Slice the radishes thinly for a crisp and refreshing addition to the Pho. They provide a subtle peppery flavor and a beautiful pop of color.
• Lime — Squeeze fresh lime juice over the Pho just before serving to add a tangy and citrusy element that balances the flavors of the broth.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can roast the onions, garlic, and ginger before adding them to the broth.
• Customize your toppings by adding Nordic vegetables like pickled beets, roasted carrots, or thinly sliced cucumbers.
• Experiment with different Nordic herbs such as lovage, sorrel, or lemon balm to add unique flavors to the broth.
• If you prefer a spicier Pho, add a few slices of fresh chili pepper or a drizzle of chili oil.
• To make the dish heartier, you can add Nordic seafood like smoked salmon or pickled herring as additional toppings.

Serving advice

Serve the New Nordic Pho hot in individual bowls. Encourage your guests to mix the toppings into the broth and enjoy the flavors and textures together. Provide chopsticks and spoons for a traditional Pho experience.

Presentation advice

Present the New Nordic Pho with a minimalist and elegant touch. Arrange the toppings neatly on top of the broth, allowing the vibrant colors to shine through. Garnish with a sprig of fresh dill or a sprinkle of Nordic herbs for an added visual appeal.