From Vietnam to Thailand: Satisfying Your Cravings for Pho
If you’re a food lover, you’ll know that nothing beats the satisfaction of indulging in a hearty bowl of pho. This Vietnamese delicacy has won the hearts of foodies worldwide with its rich aroma, flavor, and texture. And guess what? You don’t have to travel all the way to Vietnam to satiate your cravings for pho. Thailand is home to some of the best Vietnamese restaurants that serve authentic bowls of pho. So, if you’re in Thailand and looking for a pho fix, here’s everything you need to know.
What is Pho?
Pho is a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup made with beef or chicken broth served with flat rice noodles, meat (beef or chicken), and various herbs and spices. The soup is usually flavored with star anise, cinnamon, coriander seeds, ginger, and cloves, giving it a unique and distinct flavor. Typically, pho is served with a side dish of bean sprouts, lime wedges, and fresh herbs like Thai basil, cilantro, and mint, which add an extra layer of freshness and crunch to the dish.
Where to Find Authentic Pho in Thailand?
Whether you’re in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, or any other part of Thailand, there are several Vietnamese restaurants that serve authentic pho. Here are some of the best places to try:
1. Pho Phi – Bangkok
Pho Phi is a cozy little restaurant located in Bangkok’s Sathorn district. They serve some of the best pho in town, made with beef bones that have been simmered for over eight hours to create a rich and flavorful broth. The soup is generously topped with thinly sliced beef, onions, and bean sprouts, and served with a side of fresh herbs and chili peppers.
2. Pho C&P – Chiang Mai
Pho C&P is a family-run restaurant located in Chiang Mai’s old city. They serve authentic pho made with fresh ingredients and traditional cooking methods. The broth is simmered for over 12 hours to extract the rich flavors and aromas of the spices and herbs, giving it a unique and distinct taste.
3. Pho Vietnam – Pattaya
If you’re in Pattaya and looking for a pho fix, head over to Pho Vietnam. This restaurant serves some of the best bowls of pho in the city, made with fresh ingredients and served with a side of bean sprouts, lime wedges, and fresh herbs. They also offer several other Vietnamese specialties, like banh mi, spring rolls, and Vietnamese coffee.
Tips for Ordering Pho like A Pro
Ordering pho might seem simple, but there are several things you need to keep in mind to make sure you get the best possible experience. Here are some tips:
1. Choose Your Meat
Pho can be made with either beef or chicken, so make sure you specify which one you want when ordering. Beef pho is the most common and typically comes with thinly sliced beef, beef balls, and tripe. Chicken pho, on the other hand, is made with chicken broth and comes with chicken meat and giblets.
2. Customize Your Bowl
Pho is usually served with a side dish of bean sprouts, lime wedges, and fresh herbs. You can add as much or as little as you like to your bowl, depending on your taste preferences. You can also add chili peppers or hoisin sauce for an extra kick.
3. Stir and Savor
Before digging into your bowl of pho, make sure you give it a good stir to mix all the flavors and ingredients. Take a deep breath to savor the aroma, then take a sip of the broth and let the flavors dance on your palate. Add more herbs, lime, or chili peppers as needed to enhance the flavor to your liking.
Conclusion
If you’re a pho lover in Thailand, you’re in luck. There are several Vietnamese restaurants that serve authentic pho made with fresh ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Whether you’re in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, or Pattaya, you can find a bowl of pho that will satisfy your cravings. Just remember to follow our tips for ordering pho like a pro, so you get the best possible experience. Happy eating!
FAQs
Q1. Is pho a healthy dish?
Pho is generally considered to be a healthy dish as it is made with fresh ingredients and does not contain any artificial flavors or preservatives. However, some versions of pho can be high in sodium and calories, so it’s best to check the nutrition information before ordering.
Q2. What is the difference between beef and chicken pho?
Beef pho is made with beef bones that have been simmered for hours to create a rich and flavorful broth. It typically comes with thinly sliced beef, beef balls, and tripe. Chicken pho, on the other hand, is made with chicken broth and comes with chicken meat and giblets.
Q3. How do you pronounce “pho”?
“Pho” is pronounced as “fuh.”
Q4. Can you make pho at home?
Yes, you can make pho at home using fresh ingredients and traditional cooking methods. However, it can be a time-consuming process and requires several hours of simmering to create the rich and flavorful broth.
Q5. What other Vietnamese delicacies should I try besides pho?
Vietnamese cuisine has several other delicious delicacies like banh mi, spring rolls, pho cuon, and com tam. We highly recommend trying these dishes during your visit to Thailand.
