Pho is not just a dish in Vietnam—it’s a culinary symbol that embodies the country’s rich culture, history, and culinary diversity. For many tourists, trying different types of pho is a must when exploring Vietnam. With regional variations, unique ingredients, and rich flavors, pho tells a delicious story of Vietnam’s past and present. This article from Asia Legend Travel will take you on a journey through the diverse world of pho, helping you understand the differences between the beloved types of pho and where to find the best bowls on your visit.
Overview of Pho
Pho is a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup that usually consists of broth, rice noodles (called “bánh phở” in Vietnamese), herbs, and meat – usually beef in Pho Bo or chicken in Pho Ga. The dish is believed to have originated in the early 20th century in northern Vietnam and gradually spread southward. As a result, two main regional styles of pho have emerged: Pho Bac (northern-style pho) and Pho Nam (southern-style pho).
Each region has its own way of preparing this delicious dish, reflecting local tastes and ingredients. Pho Bac tends to be simpler with a clear, less sweet broth, while Pho Nam is known for its bolder, more complex flavors, often accompanied by a variety of herbs and garnishes. Let’s dive deeper into these regional varieties before exploring specific types of pho.
Pho Bac (Northern-Style Pho)
Pho Bac, the northern-style pho, is the original version of the noodle soup dish, believed to have been created in Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital. This iconic Hanoi soup features a delicate, clear broth made by simmering beef bones and meat, usually seasoned with star anise, cinnamon, and ginger. Northern pho is traditionally less sweet than its southern counterpart and is served with fewer garnishes. Instead of being piled high with herbs, Pho Bac focuses more on the purity of the broth and the beef’s natural flavors.
The noodles in Pho Bac are thin and flat, and the beef, such as Pho Tai (rare beef), is often cooked directly in the broth. If you’re a purist, Pho Bac is the type of pho you’ll want to try in Hanoi, where every bowl is a tribute to the dish’s historical roots.
Pho Nam (Southern-Style Pho)
Moving south to Ho Chi Minh City on a Vietnam 14 day tour with Asia Legend Travel, you’ll encounter Pho Nam, a more robust and flavor-packed version of pho. Pho Nam features a richer, sweeter broth, often spiced with a broader range of ingredients like cloves, cardamom, and coriander. Southern pho is more liberal with herbs, serving large amounts of basil, cilantro, and bean sprouts alongside lime and chili on the side.
In contrast to Pho Bac, Pho Nam usually comes with wider noodles and a greater variety of meats such as beef brisket, tripe, or even meatballs. The southern preference for stronger flavors and customizable bowls reflects the region’s vibrant and multicultural culinary influences.
Various Types of Pho
Beyond regional distinctions, there are several types of Pho Vietnam that offer unique tastes and textures. From chicken to beef, to creative vegetarian versions, pho has something for every palate. Let’s explore the various types you can expect to encounter during your Vietnam tour.
Pho Ga (Chicken Pho)
For those who prefer lighter flavors, Pho Ga (chicken pho) is a fantastic alternative to beef-based pho. The broth for Pho Ga is typically clearer and lighter, made by simmering chicken bones with herbs like ginger and cilantro. The tender chicken pieces, often poached, give the dish a delicate flavor that pairs beautifully with fresh herbs and lime.
Pho Ga is popular throughout the country and is often served with the same noodles used in beef pho. It’s perfect for those looking for a less heavy, yet equally comforting bowl of soup.
Pho Bo (Beef Pho) Varieties
Pho Bo is the most iconic type of pho and offers various options depending on the cuts of beef and how it’s prepared. Here are some of the most popular types of pho meat in Pho Bo:
- Pho Tai: This version features thinly sliced rare beef (usually fillet), which cooks quickly in the hot broth right before serving. The meat remains tender, making it one of the most sought-after versions of Beef Pho.
- Pho Bo Vien: This type uses beef meatballs, adding a chewy and savory texture to the dish.
- Pho Nam: For those who prefer well-done beef, Pho Nam offers brisket slices that have been slow-cooked to perfection.
- Pho Gan: This is a variation for more adventurous eaters, made with beef tendon for a gelatinous, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Each of these varieties caters to different preferences for texture and flavor, making Pho Bo one of the most customizable types of pho.
Vegetarian and Vegan Pho
As more travelers seek plant-based alternatives, Vietnam has adapted its cuisine to offer types of pho vegetarian or vegan. These dishes typically use a vegetable or mushroom-based broth, simmered with ginger, star anise, and cinnamon for a fragrant and hearty flavor. Instead of meat, tofu or seitan is used to add protein, while an abundance of fresh vegetables, such as bok choy, mushrooms, and carrots, rounds out the bowl.
With the rising popularity of plant-based diets, vegetarian pho is now widely available in major cities and is a great option for those looking to enjoy Vietnam’s iconic dish without meat.
Pho Xao (Stir-Fried Pho)
Pho Xao is a delicious twist on the classic soup. Instead of being served in broth, the noodles are stir-fried with beef, vegetables, and soy sauce. This dish offers a completely different texture and flavor profile, with charred noodles providing a satisfying bite. It’s perfect for those who want the taste of pho but in a stir-fried form, making it one of the more unique types of pho noodles to try during your visit.
Pho Cuon (Pho Rolls)
Another interesting variation is Pho Cuon (pho rolls), which transforms pho noodles into fresh spring rolls. The noodles are used as a wrapper for beef and herbs, creating a refreshing, non-soup version of pho. Pho Cuon is typically dipped in a sweet and sour sauce, offering a lighter, handheld pho experience.
Best Places for Pho
No trip to Vietnam would be complete without sampling pho from the country’s best establishments. In Hanoi, some of the most famous pho restaurants are:
- Pho Bat Dan:
- Address: 49 Bat Dan Street, Cua Dong Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Opening hours: 6:00 am to 10:00 am and 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm on weekdays.
- Price ranges: from 40,000 VND to 50,000 VND.
- Pho Thin:
- Address: 13 Lo Duc Ward, Ngo Thi Nham Ward, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi.
- Opening hours: 7:00 am to 8:30 pm
- Price ranges: from 40,000 to 100,000 VND
Ho Chi Minh City boasts renowned places where you can savor the rich flavors of Pho Nam, like:
- Pho Hoa Pasteur:
- Address: 60C Pasteur, Ward 8, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City.
- Opening hours: 5:30 am to 10:30 pm
- Price ranges: from 30,000 to 90,000 VND
- Pho Le:
- Address: 413 – 415 Nguyen Trai, Ward 7, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City.
- Opening hours: 6:00 am to 00:00 pm
- Price ranges: from 75,000 to 100,000 VND
For those seeking vegetarian or vegan pho:
- Hum Vegetarian:
- Address: 32 Vo Van Tan, Ward 6, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
- Opening hours: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm
- Price ranges: from 70,000 to 120,000 VND
- Uu Dam Chay:
- Address: 55 Nguyen Du Street, Nguyen Du Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
- Opening hours: 10:30 am to 9:30 pm
- Price ranges: from 60,000 VND to 285,000 VND
If you’re a true pho lover, taking a food tour in these cities can introduce you to a wide range of types of pho, ensuring you don’t miss out on any of the regional specialties.
Pho is more than just a meal—it’s a cultural experience that tells the story of Vietnam’s history and culinary diversity. From the simple and elegant Pho Bac of the north to the herb-laden, bold flavors of Pho Nam in the south, there are endless variations of types of pho for travelers to explore. Whether you prefer traditional Beef Pho like Pho Tai, are interested in unique options like Pho Cuon, or need a plant-based alternative, the different types of pho available in Vietnam will cater to all tastes. So, pack your appetite and embark on a delicious journey through one of Vietnam’s most iconic dishes.
