Pho Ga Soup

Pho Ga Soup

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Serving

Ingradients

For the Broth:
  • 1 whole chicken (or 2–3 lbs chicken bones and meaty pieces)
  • 1 large onion, halved and charred
  • 1-inch piece of ginger, halved and charred
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 2 star anise pods
  • 1 whole clove
  • 1 tbsp coriander seeds (toasted)
  • 1 tsp fennel seeds (optional)
  • 6–8 cups water or chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
For the Soup Base:
  • 2 tbsp fish sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tbsp sugar or rock sugar (for sweetness and balance)
  • Juice of ½ lime
For Serving:
  • 12 oz rice noodles (bánh phở), cooked
  • 2–3 cups shredded cooked chicken (from the broth)
  • Fresh herbs: Thai basil, cilantro, mint
  • Lime wedges
  • Sliced chili (optional)
  • Bean sprouts
  • Thinly sliced onion or scallions
  • Hoisin sauce and chili sauce (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Roast the Aromatics

  • Char onion and ginger over an open flame or in a dry skillet until slightly blackened. Set aside.

Step 2: Toast the Spices

  • In a dry pan, toast cinnamon, star anise, clove, coriander seeds, and fennel until fragrant.

Step 3: Simmer the Broth

  • In a large pot, add chicken, charred aromatics, and toasted spices.
  • Cover with water or broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Skim any foam or impurities from the surface.
  • Simmer for 1.5–2 hours until broth is golden and fragrant.
  • Remove chicken and strain the broth. Season with fish sauce, sugar, and lime juice.

Step 4: Prepare the Soup

  • Shred the cooked chicken meat and set aside.
  • In bowls, place rice noodles, shredded chicken, and ladle hot broth over top.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

  • Serve with fresh herbs, lime, chili, and condiments on the side.
  • Let diners customize their bowls.

Pros:

  • Healing & Comforting: Known for its soothing properties—great for colds or fatigue.
  • High in Protein: Chicken and broth support muscle health and recovery.
  • Low in Fat (if using lean chicken): Healthy option when made with skinless chicken breast.
  • Flavorful Without Cream: Uses spices and aromatics instead of heavy ingredients.
  • Customizable: Each diner can personalize their bowl with herbs and condiments.

Cons:

  • High in Sodium: From fish sauce and salt—may not suit those watching blood pressure.
  • Time-Intensive Broth: Requires simmering for several hours for best flavor.
  • May Be Too Mild for Some Palates: Lacks heat unless chili sauce is added.
  • Not Vegan or Vegetarian: Contains chicken and fish sauce.
  • Contains Allergens: Fish sauce and spices may affect sensitive individuals.

Suitable for Aged People?

Yes, Pho Ga (Vietnamese Chicken Pho) is generally suitable for aged individuals due to:

  • Soft Texture: Rice noodles and shredded chicken are easy to chew and digest.
  • Hydrating & Warming: Ideal for seniors during cold weather or when under the weather.
  • Good Source of Protein & B-Vitamins: Supports muscle and nerve function.
  • Mild Flavor Profile: Often appealing to older adults with reduced taste sensitivity.

However:

  • Heart Health Considerations: Should be consumed in moderation by those watching sodium intake.
  • Digestive Sensitivity: Some seniors may find spices or herbs hard to digest.
  • Tooth Sensitivity: Very hot broth may be uncomfortable for some seniors.

Tip: Use low-sodium fish sauce, add soft-cooked vegetables like bok choy, and serve at a comfortable temperature for seniors.

Who Should Avoid This Recipe?

This recipe may not be suitable for:

  1. People with Hypertension: Due to high sodium content from fish sauce.
  2. Those with Fish Allergies: Fish sauce is a known allergen unless substituted.
  3. Individuals with Oral Sensitivity or Dysphagia: Hot broth may cause discomfort.
  4. Strict Low-Protein Diets (e.g., kidney disease): High in animal protein unless modified.
  5. Allergy to Spices or Herbs (rare): May contain star anise, clove, or cinnamon sensitivity.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient
Amount
% Daily Value
Calories
320
Total Fat
10g
13%
Saturated Fat
2.5g
13%
Cholesterol
50mg
17%
Sodium
600mg
26%
Total Carbohydrate
30g
11%
Dietary Fiber
1g
4%
Total Sugars
2g
Protein
25g
50%
Vitamin A
200 IU
4%
Vitamin C
5mg
6%
Calcium
20mg
2%
Iron
1.5mg
8%
Potassium
250mg
7%