5 Unique Pho Flavors That’ll Have You Craving for More From the Very First Taste

Pho is not just a popular dish but also a source of pride for Vietnam, attracting diners from all over the world. Apart from the traditional soup pho, there are various other cooking methods, creating unique and appealing flavors while retaining the essence of Vietnamese cuisine. Let’s discover the 5 special pho dishes below!

Pho Cuon

Among the specialties of Hanoi, pho cuon stands out as a delicious dish, contributing to the affirmation of Vietnamese cuisine. Unlike traditional pho, pho cuon does not have broth but uses thick pho sheets to roll with beef and fresh vegetables, accompanied by a unique dipping sauce. Hanoians usually make the dipping sauce with fish sauce, vinegar, lime juice, sugar, and chili, creating a sweet and sour mixture, with attractive colors from white garlic and red chili. This dish is not only pleasing to the eye but also nutritious and easily satisfies every diner.

Pho Chua

If you have the opportunity to visit the northern provinces of Lang Son, Ha Giang, or Cao Bang, don’t miss the chance to enjoy pho chua. The name of this dish comes from the characteristic taste of sour and sweet fish sauce with a little spiciness, combined with soft and fresh pho sheets. Unlike traditional pho with hot broth, pho chua is served with a unique garlic chili fish sauce. When enjoying this dish, you will feel the freshness of herbs, the crispness of vegetables and meat, and the sweetness of various meats blended with the creamy richness of potatoes, creating a wonderful culinary experience.

Pho Xao

In the list of Vietnam’s famous pho dishes, pho xao is loved by many and has become an appealing choice. Although it does not have the hot broth like traditional pho, pho xao still brings an enticing flavor to discerning foodies. This dish is a creative twist on the basic pho, combining pho sheets, vegetables, and various meats to create a flavorful dish that you will crave more of. The cook can stir-fry the pho in different ways, either soft or crispy, depending on personal preference. A perfect stir-fried pho bowl usually dons the fresh green of the vegetables, the enticing red of the meat, and the pristine white of the pho sheets, offering a distinctive culinary experience.

Pho Tron

Pho tron is a dish favored by young people, similar to mixed glass noodles or mixed vermicelli, without using broth but skillfully combining all the ingredients. The soft white pho noodles, blended with savory mixed fish sauce, bring a salty and sweet flavor. Especially, the choice of accompanying meat is diverse, ranging from chicken to beef, making pho tron rich and varied. A delicious bowl of pho tron must have the captivating aroma of fried onions and herbs, providing an attractive and memorable culinary experience.

Pho Chien Phong

A unique pho dish that you must try is pho chien phong. This is a special version made from large pho sheets, cut into square pieces and deep-fried until golden and crispy. Combined with the vibrant colors of tomatoes and vegetables, along with the fragrant aroma of stir-fried beef, pho chien phong becomes more appealing than ever. You can enjoy pho chien phong in several ways, either stir-fried with beef and herbs or dipped in a sweet and sour fish sauce, and each preparation method offers a distinct flavor experience.

Each unique Vietnamese pho dish, despite differences in taste, cooking methods, and enjoyment, clearly reflects the essence of the country’s cuisine. Take note and experience these 5 enticing dishes right away!