Vietnamese Pho

Vietnamese Pho is a fragrant and comforting noodle soup originating from northern Vietnam, characterized by a clear, aromatic broth simmered for hours with bones, star anise, cinnamon, and other spices. It typically features flat rice noodles, tender slices of beef or chicken, and is served with a fresh platter of herbs like Thai basil, cilantro, and lime for squeezing. The dish is a staple street food and family meal across Vietnam, with regional variations found throughout the country.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

A typical serving of beef pho is a balanced meal, providing a moderate amount of protein from the meat, carbohydrates from the rice noodles, and a relatively low fat content, especially if the broth is skimmed. It is a good source of minerals like iron and zinc from the beef and offers hydration from the broth, with a rough calorie count ranging from 350 to 500 per bowl depending on portion size and ingredients.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	350 kcal
Protein	25 g
Carbs	40 g
Fat	10 g
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	2 g
Sodium	1200 mg
Potassium	450 mg
Iron	3.5 mg
Zinc	4.0 mg
Vitamin B12	1.5 mcg
Niacin (B3)	8.0 mg
Phosphorus	250 mg
Magnesium	40 mg
Selenium	20 mcg

Per 1 bowl (450 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, Pho is a symbol of Vietnamese resilience and adaptability, having evolved from a humble street vendor dish into a global culinary icon. Nutritionally, the slow-simmered broth is rich in collagen and amino acids, while the fresh herb accompaniments add vitamins and antioxidants, making it a comforting yet nourishing meal.