Thai-Inspired Pho

Ingredients

While the original Vietnamese Pho typically features a delicate and clear broth, this Thai-inspired version incorporates the bold and tangy flavors of Tom Yum soup. The addition of Thai herbs and spices such as lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and Thai chilies gives this Pho a unique and exciting twist. We alse have the original recipe for Pho, so you can check it out.

• 8 cups (1.9 liters) chicken or vegetable broth 8 cups (1.9 liters) chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised and cut into 2-inch pieces 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 4 kaffir lime leaves 4 kaffir lime leaves
• 2 Thai chilies, sliced 2 Thai chilies, sliced
• 1-inch piece of galangal or ginger, sliced 1-inch piece of galangal or ginger, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, sliced 1 onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon palm sugar or brown sugar 1 tablespoon palm sugar or brown sugar
• 8 ounces (225 grams) rice noodles 8 ounces (225 grams) rice noodles
• 8 ounces (225 grams) cooked chicken or tofu, thinly sliced 8 ounces (225 grams) cooked chicken or tofu, thinly sliced
• Fresh cilantro, Thai basil, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and sliced Thai chilies for garnish Fresh cilantro, Thai basil, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and sliced Thai chilies for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 55g, 5g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil.
2. 2.
   Add the lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, Thai chilies, galangal or ginger, garlic, and onion to the pot. Simmer for 20 minutes to infuse the broth with flavors.
3. 3.
   Remove the aromatics from the broth using a slotted spoon or strain the broth.
4. 4.
   Stir in the fish sauce, soy sauce, and palm sugar or brown sugar until dissolved.
5. 5.
   Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. 6.
   Divide the cooked noodles among serving bowls. Top with sliced chicken or tofu.
7. 7.
   Ladle the hot broth over the noodles and chicken/tofu.
8. 8.
   Garnish with fresh cilantro, Thai basil, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and sliced Thai chilies.
9. 9.
   Serve hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lemongrass — To release its flavor, bruise the lemongrass stalks by lightly pounding them with a rolling pin or the back of a knife before adding them to the broth.
• Kaffir lime leaves — Tear the leaves slightly before adding them to the broth to release their aromatic oils.
• Thai chilies — Adjust the amount of Thai chilies according to your spice preference. For milder heat, remove the seeds before slicing.
• Galangal or ginger — If you can't find galangal, ginger can be used as a substitute, although the flavor will be slightly different.
• Rice noodles — Follow the package instructions for cooking time, as it may vary depending on the brand.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, add a squeeze of lime juice and a drizzle of Thai chili sauce to your bowl of Pho before serving.
• Customize your Pho by adding your favorite Thai herbs such as Thai basil, mint, or cilantro.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken or tofu.
• To save time, prepare the broth in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving and cook the noodles fresh.
• Experiment with different protein options such as shrimp, beef, or pork for a variation in flavors.

Serving advice

Serve the Thai-Inspired Pho piping hot in individual bowls. Encourage your guests to garnish their bowls with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and sliced Thai chilies according to their taste preferences. The vibrant colors and aromatic flavors will make this dish a feast for the senses.

Presentation advice

Present the Thai-Inspired Pho in beautiful ceramic bowls to showcase the vibrant colors of the broth and garnishes. Arrange the fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and sliced Thai chilies neatly on a platter for guests to add to their bowls. Serve with chopsticks and soup spoons for an authentic dining experience.