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Authentic Pho Ga

Savor Authentic Pho Ga: Your Comforting Homemade Delight

Experience a bowl of Authentic Pho Ga, a comforting homemade Northern Vietnamese chicken noodle soup.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Soups
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Broth
  • 1 whole Chicken (about 3-3.5 lbs) The main protein; a whole bird gives a richer broth.
  • 3 thumb-sized pieces Ginger Peeled and halved; essential for broth's fragrance.
  • 5 large Shallots Peeled; preferred for their milder sweetness.
  • 1 stick Cassia Bark (or 1 Cinnamon Stick) Adds warmth to the broth.
  • 2-3 pieces Star Anise Imparts a floral note.
  • 1 tablespoon Coriander Seeds Or 3-4 Cloves; adjust according to your palate.
  • 1 pod Black Cardamom (cracked open) Optional; offers a unique sweet undertone.
  • 2 teaspoons Salt Plus extra for parboiling; enhances flavors.
  • 2-3 tablespoons Fish Sauce Vital for umami depth.
  • 9 cups Water The main liquid for your nourishing broth.
For the Noodles and Toppings
  • Pho Rice Noodles Prepare as per package instructions.
  • Scallions Use both white and green parts for garnish.
  • 1/2 Onion Very thinly sliced for added crunch.
  • Freshly Cracked Black Pepper Elevates the flavor profile.
  • Birds-Eye Chili Pepper Sliced; optional for extra spice.
  • Lime Wedges For tangy brightness when serving.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • pan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Authentic Pho Ga
  1. Parboil the chicken in 9 cups of boiling water with 2 teaspoons of salt for 5 minutes, then rinse.
  2. Dry roast ginger and shallots for 5 minutes, then toast spices in the same pan.
  3. Simmer the chicken, roasted ginger, shallots, toasted spices, salt, and water for 15-20 minutes.
  4. Remove the chicken, cool in an ice bath, shred meat, and return bones to simmer for 45-60 minutes.
  5. Stir in fish sauce to the broth, adjust seasoning, and let flavors meld.
  6. Prepare noodles as per instructions and assemble bowls with noodles, chicken, broth, and garnishes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure you parboil the chicken to remove impurities for a clear broth. Taste as you go for seasoning adjustments.

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