How to Eat Pho: A Thorough Guide to Proper Pho Etiquette and Manners | Essential Steps and Flavor-Enhancing Techniques

Pho is consumed approximately 8.5 billion times a year within Vietnam and enjoys overwhelming popularity at Vietnamese restaurants worldwide. The charm of pho lies in the exquisite balance between its soup, rice noodles, meat, and the interplay of herbs and sauces. However, have you ever found yourself thinking, “I don’t know how to eat it the authentic way,” “How should I use the herbs and sauces?” or “It’s hard to scoop up the noodles and eat them”?

In fact, there are many little-known “tips for eating pho,” such as how to savor the soup, use herbs, the order of eating noodles and meat, and choosing the right condiments. Just changing the order in which you eat can dramatically alter the flavors and aromas you experience. By learning the correct way to enjoy pho, you can experience its profound depth of flavor like never before.

This guide will provide an in-depth and practical explanation of everything from the history and varieties of pho, how it differs from similar noodle dishes, the best combinations of soup, noodles, herbs, and condiments, etiquette in both Vietnam and Japan, home adaptation techniques, as well as foolproof takeout tips and health aspects.

By reading to the end, you’ll gain a deep understanding of the appeal of pho that goes “beyond just eating,” and insight into Vietnamese food culture itself. Let’s take your “pho experience” to the next level—starting today.

What is Pho? Essential Knowledge and Cultural Background of Vietnamese Cuisine

Origins and Historical Background of Pho – Explaining Regional Food Culture Differences and the Development of Pho in Northern and Southern Vietnam

Pho is a quintessential Vietnamese rice noodle dish, with its name believed to derive from the French “pot-au-feu” or possibly from the Chinese word “fen” (粉). It originated around the late 19th century in the Hanoi area, where northern pho is characterized by a clear, simple broth. When pho spread to the south in the mid-20th century, it evolved into a more vibrant and varied style, with a greater variety of herbs and seasonings. In the north, beef-based broth is the standard, while in the south, a sweeter soup and abundant toppings are preferred. These regional culinary differences shape pho’s unique character.

Main Types and Features of Pho – An Expert Overview of Beef Pho, Chicken Pho, and Seafood Pho

Pho can be broadly divided into three main types: beef pho (pho bo), chicken pho (pho ga), and seafood pho.

• Beef Pho (Pho Bo): Features a richly flavored broth made by slowly simmering beef bones, topped with thinly sliced or rare beef. Its well-balanced depth and aroma make it popular throughout Vietnam.
• Chicken Pho (Pho Ga): Characterized by a light, clear chicken-based broth. Its gentle flavor makes it perfect for breakfast or a light meal. You can customize it to your taste with various herbs and condiments.
• Seafood Pho: Made with ocean delicacies such as shrimp and squid, this variety is especially popular in coastal regions. The seafood flavors infuse the broth, resulting in a refreshing taste.

Each type of pho varies in ingredients and soup flavor depending on the region or restaurant, making taste comparisons one of the delights of eating pho.

How Pho Differs from Similar Noodle Dishes – Comparing Pho with Ramen, Rice Vermicelli, and Udon

The table below summarizes the characteristics of pho and other commonly compared noodle dishes.

Dish Name	Main Ingredient	Broth	Noodle Characteristics	Main Toppings	Representative Food Culture
Pho	Rice flour	Clear beef or chicken broth	Flat, slightly thick noodles	Beef, chicken, herbs	Vietnam
Ramen	Wheat flour	Pork, chicken, or seafood broth	Curly, chewy noodles	Pork, vegetables, egg	Japan
Rice Vermicelli	Rice flour	Chicken or seafood broth	Thin, translucent noodles	Chicken, vegetables	China/Southeast Asia
Udon	Wheat flour	Bonito or kelp broth	Thick, chewy noodles	Tempura, green onions	Japan

Pho’s distinctive features are its flat rice noodles and clear broth, as well as the liberal use of herbs such as coriander and lime—setting it apart from other noodle dishes. Even compared to Japanese ramen and udon or Chinese rice vermicelli, pho stands out for its mouthfeel, aroma, and variety of toppings. This unique food culture and experience, only possible with pho, continues to captivate people everywhere.

Basic Steps and Etiquette for Eating Pho

How to Savor the Broth and the Importance of the First Bite

To fully enjoy pho, it’s important to first take in the aroma and flavor of the broth. Start by tasting a spoonful of soup with your soup spoon, without adding anything else. This lets you appreciate the authentic umami from the carefully prepared beef bone or chicken stock, as well as the distinctive Vietnamese spices. By savoring the broth before adding any garnishes or condiments, you’ll find it easier to adjust the flavors to your own preference later on. For first-timers or those curious about how pho is eaten in Vietnam, that first sip is a key moment to discover the true taste of pho.

The Role and Use of Garnishes (Cilantro, Basil, Lime, etc.)

Garnishes are what bring out the best in pho. Cilantro, basil, lime, bean sprouts—each adds its own flavor or aroma, letting you customize your bowl to suit your tastes.

Garnish	Features	Example Use
Cilantro	Refreshing aroma and bitterness	Add a pinch to enjoy the fragrance
Basil	Light, cooling freshness	Tear by hand and place on top of noodles
Lime	Bright, tangy acidity	Squeeze half into the soup
Bean sprouts	Crisp, crunchy texture	Eat with noodles for added texture

By adding these garnishes to your liking and enjoying the changes in flavor and aroma, you can experience the true depth of pho.

Proper Use of Condiments (Hoisin, Sriracha, Fish Sauce)

Several condiments are provided with pho. Understanding their unique flavors and using them in balance lets you create your own personalized taste.

Condiment	Flavor Profile	How to Use
Hoisin	Sweetness and richness	Add a little to the noodles or meat, or dissolve in the soup
Sriracha	Spicy and tangy	Add a bit to the soup or meat if you like it spicy
Fish sauce	Salty, distinctive umami	Add a few drops at a time to adjust the soup’s flavor

Tips

1. Add a little at a time and check how the flavor changes
2. Balance sweetness, spiciness, and saltiness
3. Try dipping meat or noodles directly into the condiments

Adjust the condiments to your liking and enjoy expanding the range of flavors.

How to Hold and Use Chopsticks and Spoon

When eating pho, it’s standard practice to use chopsticks and a spoon together. Pick up the noodles and toppings with your chopsticks, and use the spoon to scoop up soup and garnishes so you can enjoy them together. It’s easier to eat if you lift the noodles with chopsticks and support them with the spoon. When tasting the broth, use the spoon to enjoy the warmth and aroma.

• How to hold chopsticks: Hold them just like you would Japanese chopsticks
• How to use the spoon: Place noodles or toppings on it and bring them to your mouth together

If you’re not comfortable with chopsticks, it’s perfectly fine to use a fork. Pho is a casual dish even in Vietnam, so feel free to enjoy it in the way that suits you best.

Local Manners and Differences from Japan

In Vietnam, pho is an everyday meal enjoyed casually. It’s common to slurp the noodles, and the culture encourages eating at your own pace without worrying about those around you. In Japan, however, it may be more polite to eat quietly without making noise, so it’s a good idea to be mindful of the setting.

• In Vietnam:
• No one minds the sound of slurping noodles
• Garnishes and condiments can be freely added to taste
• Don’t stack your bowls after finishing your meal
• Points to note in Japan:
• Be considerate of others and eat quietly
• Respect each restaurant’s style and etiquette

While soaking up the authentic atmosphere, it’s also important to enjoy pho in a way that matches the place and the company you’re with.

How to Maximize Pho’s Flavor and Techniques for Changing Up the Taste

Scientific Basis for the Order of Eating – A Professional Explanation of the Optimal Sequence for Soup, Noodles, and Meat

To fully enjoy pho, the order in which you eat it is important. First, it’s ideal to savor a sip of the soup to really appreciate its aroma and flavor. This allows you to directly experience the unique broth, spices, and umami that are characteristic of Vietnamese cuisine. Next, by eating the noodles, you can enjoy how the soup clings to them. Finally, by eating the meat and toppings, you get to savor the harmony of flavors between the soup and the ingredients. Paying attention to the following order will help you experience the changing flavors and balance of pho.

• 1. Taste a spoonful of soup
• 2. Enjoy the noodles on their own
• 3. Eat together with the meat and toppings

This way of eating is also recommended in Vietnam, as it allows you to experience the flavors in stages—making it a great suggestion for beginners as well.

Examples of Toppings and Condiment Combinations & Tips for Flavor Variation – Concrete Ways to Enjoy Changing Flavors

One of pho’s appeals is that you can adjust the taste to your liking. By skillfully using toppings and condiments, you can greatly broaden the range of flavors. Here are some classic combinations.

Topping/Condiment	Flavor Profile	Recommended Use
Cilantro	Refreshing, unique aroma	Place on noodles to enhance the fragrance
Lime	Tart and refreshing	Squeeze into the soup for a lighter taste
Chili (Hot Pepper)	Spicy	Add little by little to adjust the heat
Fried Onion	Sweetness and richness	Top on soup or noodles
Hoisin Sauce	Sweet and savory richness	Dip the meat in it for extra flavor
Sriracha Sauce	Piquant accent	Add a small amount to soup or meat for a kick

The trick to changing up the flavor is to start by eating as is, then gradually add toppings or sauces as you go. By slowly customizing the flavor to your preference, you can experience the depth of pho.

Common Mistakes and Solutions – Problems Like Bland Flavor or Lukewarm Soup and How to Fix Them

Frequent mistakes when eating pho include adding too many toppings or condiments at the start, resulting in a muddled flavor, or letting the soup get cold. Here are some tips to avoid these pitfalls.

• Try small amounts of toppings and condiments first
• Drink the soup first and enjoy the ingredients while it’s still hot
• Eat the noodles quickly to help retain the soup’s heat
• Add vegetables or meat later to prevent losing heat

Here’s a table summarizing common mistakes and how to fix them.

Common Mistake	Solution
Adding a lot of toppings at once	Add a little at a time and check how the flavor changes
Soup becomes lukewarm	Eat noodles and toppings quickly to retain heat
Noodles absorb too much soup	Only dip the amount you’re about to eat into the soup

By keeping these points in mind, you can enjoy pho deliciously until the very last bite.

Ways to Eat for Better Nutrition – Suggestions for a Healthier Meal Using Toppings and Ingredients

Pho is a low-fat, well-balanced dish, but you can make it even more nutritious by making good use of vegetables and toppings. By adding plenty of herbs and vegetables such as cilantro, green onions, bean sprouts, and basil, you can get more vitamins and minerals. In particular, bean sprouts and herbs are rich in dietary fiber, which also helps improve gut health.

By choosing chicken (pho ga) or beef (pho tai) in a balanced way, you can also supplement your intake of protein and iron. Adjusting the amount of noodles and making sure to eat plenty of vegetables and meat allows you to enjoy a healthy meal without difficulty. The following arrangements are also recommended:

• Add more vegetables for a healthier option
• Choose half chicken and half beef
• Avoid drinking all the soup to reduce salt intake

Be mindful of your daily health and explore the many ways to enjoy pho.

How to Choose Pho Sauces and Tips for Home Customization

In-Depth Guide to Classic Hoisin and Sriracha Sauces – Analyzing Their Flavor Profiles and Compatibility with Pho

To enjoy pho just like in its home country, knowing how to use the right sauces is important. In particular, hoisin sauce and sriracha sauce are classic options and are offered in many restaurants.

Sauce Name	Flavor Characteristics	Compatibility with Pho
Hoisin Sauce	Sweet, rich, and slightly thick	Suitable for beef or chicken pho
Sriracha Sauce	Spicy, tangy, garlicky flavor	Great as a soup accent or flavor change

Hoisin sauce is sweet with a moderate saltiness that brings out the flavor of beef and chicken. Sriracha sauce is known for its spiciness, and adding a small amount to the soup gives it a nice kick. Both are essential condiments for pho. It’s common to add as much as you like at the table, and many people enjoy mixing both sauces together.

Homemade Pho Sauce Recipes – Simple Steps and Ingredients for Authentic Flavor

When eating pho at home, making your own sauce lets you enjoy even more authentic flavors. The following recipes are simple and recommended even for beginners.

Hoisin-Style Sauce

1. 1 tablespoon miso
2. 2 teaspoons soy sauce
3. 1 teaspoon sugar
4. 1 teaspoon peanut butter
5. A few drops of vinegar

Just mix the ingredients well and it’s ready. If you want a richer flavor, add more peanut butter.

Sriracha-Style Sauce

1. 2 tablespoons tomato ketchup
2. 1 teaspoon chili sauce
3. A little grated garlic
4. 1 teaspoon vinegar

Mix all the ingredients until smooth. Adjust the spiciness by changing the amount of chili sauce. The best part of homemade sauce is being able to customize the taste to your liking.

How to Choose Store-Bought Sauces and Recommended Products – Quality Sauces Available in Japan

Pho-specific sauces are also available in Japan. When choosing, look for options with minimal unnecessary additives and a good balance of flavors.

Product Name	Features	Where to Buy
Chin Foon Hoisin Sauce	Rich, sweet, and well-balanced spices	Imported food stores, online shops
Heinz Sriracha Sauce	Spicy and fruity flavor	Supermarkets, Amazon
Youki Foods Asian Sauce	Low in additives, easy for home use	Supermarkets, official online shop

Key Points for Choosing

• Check the ingredients list and select products with minimal chemical seasonings or preservatives
• Choose according to your preferred level of spiciness or sweetness
• Store in the refrigerator after opening and use as soon as possible

Since these are easily available at supermarkets and online shops within Japan, it’s now easier to recreate the taste of specialty restaurants at home. Find your own favorite combination and enjoy the authentic atmosphere of Vietnam right at your table.

How to Properly Handle Takeout Pho

Separating Soup and Noodles for Takeout

When taking pho to go, it is strongly recommended to separate the soup and noodles into different containers. If the noodles and toppings remain soaked in the soup, the noodles will continue to absorb the liquid over time, making the texture less enjoyable. To keep the noodles’ firmness and chewiness and preserve the original flavor of the soup, it’s best to bring them home separated—as many stores provide—and assemble your pho just before eating.

Please refer to the table below for the recommended use of different containers.

Ingredient	Recommended Container	Key Points
Soup	Airtight container	Prevents leaks and retains temperature
Noodles	Container with ventilation	Maintains texture by avoiding steam buildup
Fresh veggies & herbs	Separate small container	Add just before eating to keep freshness
Meat & Toppings	Same as noodles or separate	Prevents flavor transfer and texture loss

Key Points

• Seal the soup hot and keep noodles and vegetables separate to avoid steaming.
• For freshness and flavor, assemble and eat as soon as possible after taking home.

Temperature Control and Methods for Reheating

To enjoy your takeout pho at its best, pay attention to the reheating methods for both soup and noodles. Keeping the soup hot ensures that everything warms up when you add noodles and toppings, enhancing both texture and flavor.

Below is a comparison of reheating methods.

Reheating Method	Soup	Noodles	Tips & Points
Microwave	Heat as is	No need to heat	Heat until just before boiling for best flavor
Pot	Warm in pot	Blanch in boiling water	Simmer soup gently; blanch noodles for about 10 seconds

Reheating Steps

1. Heat the soup thoroughly (ideally just below boiling)
2. Quickly loosen the noodles in boiling water for a chewy texture
3. Pour soup into a bowl, add noodles, toppings, and herbs to finish

Key Points

• Overheating the noodles will make them too soft, so finish quickly for best results.

How to Choose Takeout Containers and Plating Techniques

To fully enjoy takeout pho, choosing the right container and plating it well is important. Keeping noodles and soup in good condition and presenting them nicely heightens your dining satisfaction.

Recommended Takeout Containers

• For soup: Heat-resistant, tightly sealed plastic containers
• For noodles: Containers with ventilation to prevent steaming
• For herbs: Small cups or lidded containers for portioning

Plating Tips

1. Place the noodles in the bowl first
2. Pour in the hot soup in one go to loosen all the noodles
3. Add meat and toppings in a balanced way
4. Garnish with lime, cilantro, bean sprouts, and other herbs last

Tips for Enjoying Your Pho

• Add herbs and seasonings just before eating to highlight aroma and texture.
• Keeping soup, noodles, and toppings separate lets you enjoy authentic pho anywhere.

Types and Features of Pho Noodles, Meats, and Toppings

Types of Rice Noodles and Cooking Tips – Differences in Thickness, Texture, and Best Boiling Time

The star of pho, rice noodles, are a hallmark of Vietnamese cuisine. Made from rice flour, these noodles come in a variety of thicknesses and textures. Typical pho uses flat rice noodles, known for their supple chew and silky smoothness.

Thick noodles have a chewy, doughy texture that holds on to the soup well. In contrast, thin noodles are lighter and allow the flavor of the soup to come through more directly. Boiling time varies by thickness: thin noodles need about 30 seconds to 1 minute, thick noodles about 1–2 minutes. Overcooking will make them lose their bite, so the key is to boil briefly and then rinse in cold water. By following this timing even at home, you can enjoy authentic flavors just like in Vietnam.

Types and Features of Meats (Beef, Chicken, Raw Meat Safety) – The Flavor and Role of Each Cut in Pho

Pho features a variety of meats, with beef (pho bo) and chicken (pho ga) being the most common. Each beef cut has its own flavor and texture: thinly sliced loin (tai) is tender and light, while brisket (nam) stands out for its rich flavor and fatty umami. If using raw beef, be sure to choose high-quality, fresh meat and pour boiling hot soup over it to ensure safety.

Chicken has a light, clean flavor that makes it popular among health-conscious diners. By using different cuts like breast or thigh, you can also enjoy a variety of textures. In Vietnam, it’s common to mix beef and chicken or add rare cuts. Each cut brings a deep richness and umami to the soup, so choosing the meat you like best is one of the joys of eating pho.

How to Highlight the Flavor and Texture of Herbs and Vegetables – Examples of Combinations That Enhance Pho

A wealth of herbs and vegetables further enhances the flavor of pho. Classic toppings include cilantro, basil, mint, bean sprouts, green onions, lime, and chili peppers. Adding these brings freshness, aroma, and a variety of textures.

Tear the herbs by hand before adding them to release even more fragrance. Bean sprouts add a crisp texture, and squeezing lime brings a refreshing acidity to the soup. By adding chili peppers, chili sauce, or hoisin sauce little by little, you can adjust the spiciness or sweetness to your liking. The table below summarizes the main toppings and their characteristics.

Topping	Role / Flavor
Cilantro	Unique aroma and refreshing taste
Basil	Fresh, aromatic scent
Bean Sprouts	Crunchy texture
Lime	Refreshing acidity, flavor accent
Chili Pepper	Sharp spiciness
Hoisin Sauce	Adds sweetness, richness, and umami

One of pho’s greatest charms is that you can enjoy different tastes every time by choosing toppings according to your preference and how you feel that day.

Eating Pho with Just a Spoon—No Chopsticks Needed

Tips for Enjoying Pho Without Chopsticks – How to Use a Spoon and Alternative Uses for a Fork

Pho is traditionally eaten with chopsticks and a spoon, but even those who aren’t comfortable with chopsticks or children can enjoy it deliciously with just a spoon. The spoon lets you scoop up soup, noodles, and toppings all at once, so you don’t have to worry about the noodles slipping away. If you have a fork, using it together with the spoon to twirl the noodles is also recommended. There are many searches for terms like “how to eat pho with spoon” and “how to eat pho without chopsticks,” showing that you can fully enjoy authentic Vietnamese pho with just a spoon.

Below is a summary of convenient ways to use a spoon and fork.

Utensil	Recommended Use
Spoon	Scoop up noodles and toppings together with the soup
Fork	Place noodles on the spoon and twirl them for easy eating
Knife	Cut long noodles to a manageable length

Tips for Scooping Noodles with Only a Spoon – Effective Ways to Use a Spoon for Easily Cut Noodles

When eating pho noodles with only a spoon, the trick is to press the noodles against the inside of the spoon and scoop them firmly. If the noodles are long, lightly pressing them against the edge of the spoon to cut them makes them easier to eat. Scooping up the soup together with the noodles allows you to fully enjoy pho’s original flavor and aroma. These tips are especially helpful for questions like “how to eat pho noodles with spoon” or “how to eat pho soup.”

• Gather the noodles by pressing them against the edge of the bowl with the spoon
• Scoop up herbs or meat together with the noodles for enhanced flavor
• Let the noodles soak up plenty of soup to bring out their taste

With this method, you can enjoy pho deliciously to the last bite without worrying about noodles slipping, even without chopsticks.

Easy Eating Guide for Beginners and Children – Safe and Simple Methods

For those eating pho for the first time or for small children, using a spoon is a safe and reassuring way to eat. Place noodles, meat, vegetables, and soup on the spoon all at once, and bring it to your mouth a little at a time according to your mouth size. If the noodles are long, cutting them against the edge of the spoon makes them easier to handle. If the noodles are hot, it’s best to let the soup cool a little before eating.

Tips for first-timers and children

• Taste the soup first to check its temperature
• Place a small amount of noodles and toppings on your spoon to eat
• If the noodles are too long, you can cut them with scissors or a knife

By incorporating these tips, anyone can easily enjoy pho.

Scientific Explanation of Pho’s Health Aspects and Safety

Detailed Nutrition Profile of Pho – Analysis of Protein, Vitamins, and More

Pho is a quintessential Vietnamese rice noodle dish with excellent nutritional balance. Its main ingredients include beef or chicken, rice noodles, vegetables, herbs, and a fragrant broth. Rice noodles are low in fat and easy to digest, making them an ideal energy source. Beef and chicken are rich in high-quality protein, which helps build and repair muscle and body tissue. Additionally, the broth contains dissolved minerals and amino acids, which can help warm the body. The accompanying vegetables and herbs—such as cilantro, basil, bean sprouts, and lime—provide vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and dietary fiber. The table below compares the main nutrients.

Main Ingredient	Nutritional Features
Rice noodles	Carbohydrates, low in fat
Beef/Chicken	High protein, iron, B vitamins
Herbs	Vitamin C & A, antioxidants
Bean sprouts	Vitamin C, dietary fiber
Broth	Minerals, amino acids

As shown, pho allows you to take in a diverse balance of nutrients in a single bowl.

Safety of Using Raw Meat – Food Poisoning Risks and Hygiene Points

For pho toppings, thinly sliced raw beef known as “pho tai” is sometimes used. Since insufficient heating increases the risk of foodborne illness, caution is necessary. Because the beef is cooked to a rare state by the heat of the broth, it is recommended to always pour the broth at just-boiled, high temperatures. When preparing pho at home, you can minimize risk by following these hygiene points:

• Choose fresh beef and store it refrigerated until just before use
• Use separate utensils and cutting boards for meat and vegetables
• Bring the broth to a full boil, and stir the beef into the broth immediately to cook it through

By paying attention to raw meat safety and maintaining a clean cooking environment, you can enjoy pho with peace of mind.

Allergies and Ingredient Substitutions – Options for Those with Food Allergies

Pho uses a variety of ingredients, and there are now more options for people with allergies to enjoy it safely. Main allergens include beef, chicken, fish sauce (nam pla), wheat (occasionally used), eggs, and peanuts. If you are concerned about allergies, consider these alternatives:

• Use tofu, shrimp, pork, or other protein sources instead of beef or chicken
• Season with soy sauce or salt instead of fish sauce
• Choose gluten-free noodles to accommodate wheat allergies
• Omit nuts and use herbs or bean sprouts for aroma and texture

By informing your server or cook about your allergies when ordering or preparing pho, you can enjoy it with confidence. Be sure to choose appropriate ingredients based on your constitution and allergies.

Frequently Asked Questions and In-depth Q&A About Pho

Is Raw Meat in Pho Safe? – Explanation of Ingredient Selection and Cooking Precautions

Thinly sliced raw beef (pho tai) is often used in pho, and many first-timers may be concerned about its safety. If using raw meat, it is important to choose beef with a high degree of freshness. Purchase from a trusted butcher or supermarket, and pay attention to the color and smell of the meat. When cooking at home, adding the raw meat to piping hot broth will quickly cook the surface so you can eat it safely.

Keep the following points in mind for a safer and tastier experience:

• Sear the meat quickly in well-heated broth
• Strictly observe beef freshness and proper storage methods
• Thoroughly wash hands and cooking utensils before and after handling

In restaurants in Vietnam, it is also common practice to cook raw meat using the heat of the broth. When the surface turns from pink to brown, it’s ready to eat.

Can You Add Sauce to Pho Broth? – Explanation from the Perspective of Flavor and Etiquette

One of pho’s charms is that you can adjust the flavor to your liking. Traditionally, it is common to first enjoy the natural taste of the broth as-is, then add condiments or sauces for a change in flavor. Most shops provide “hoisin sauce” and “sriracha sauce” on the table.

Here are some recommended ways to change up the flavor:

• First, enjoy the flavor of the soup as it is
• If you like, add a small amount of hoisin sauce or sriracha sauce
• Add lime, chili, or herbs for extra flavor

You can add the sauces directly to the bowl, or dip the meat and noodles into them on a separate plate if you prefer. Neither way is considered bad manners—enjoy it however you like. Even in Vietnam, everyone has their own way of enjoying pho, and there is a culture of casually experimenting with flavors.

How do you reheat takeout pho? – Tips for keeping it delicious

When you order pho for takeout or delivery, the soup and the noodles/toppings are usually packed separately. To enjoy it at its best, it’s important to heat the soup thoroughly.

Here’s how to keep your pho tasting great:

• Heat the soup in a microwave or saucepan until just before it boils
• Lightly loosen the noodles and toppings under running water, then transfer them to a bowl
• Pour the hot soup over the noodles and toppings and enjoy immediately

If using a microwave, transfer the soup to a heat-resistant container, cover it with plastic wrap, and heat it up. If the soup isn’t hot enough, raw meat may not cook through, so make sure it’s thoroughly heated. Add any garnish or sauce just before eating to enjoy their aroma and texture to the fullest.

With these simple tips, you can enjoy authentic, restaurant-quality pho at home, even with takeout.