Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds)
- 4 quarts of water
- 1 large onion, peeled and halved
- 1 4-inch piece of ginger, halved lengthwise
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 3 star anise
- 3 cloves
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 pound fresh rice noodles
- 3 scallions, chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- 2 cups bean sprouts
- Fresh basil, hoisin sauce, and sriracha for serving
Special Utencils and Appliances:
Recipe:
- Prepare the Chicken and Broth:
- Rinse the chicken under cold water and place it in a large stockpot. Fill the pot with 4 quarts of water and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and skim any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.
- Char the onion and ginger on an open flame or under a broiler until slightly blackened, about 5 minutes. Add them to the pot with the chicken.
- Toast the cinnamon, star anise, cloves, and coriander seeds in a dry skillet until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes, then add them to the pot.
- Add salt, fish sauce, and sugar to the pot. Simmer the broth gently for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Cook the Noodles:
- While the broth is simmering, prepare the rice noodles according to the package instructions.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- Finish the Broth:
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool. Strain the broth through a fine mesh strainer (use cheesecloth for clearer broth). Skim any excess fat from the top of the broth.
- Debone and shred the chicken meat, discarding the bones.
- Assemble the Pho:
- Bring the broth back to a simmer. Adjust the seasoning with more fish sauce, salt, or sugar as needed.
- Place a portion of the cooked rice noodles in each bowl. Ladle the hot broth over the noodles. Add shredded chicken on top.
- Garnish with scallions, cilantro, bean sprouts, and lime wedges. Serve with fresh basil, hoisin sauce, and sriracha on the side for added flavor.
This recipe for Pho Ga is sure to provide a warm, aromatic, and satisfying meal, perfect for any day of the year. Enjoy the process of making this beloved Vietnamese dish and customize it to your taste preferences.