Pho Aroma: How to Char Roots and Toast Spices

Name: Pho Aroma: How to Char Roots and Toast Spices
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Ingredients: Toast the star anise, cinnamon sticks, and black cardamom pods in a large pan over medium-low heat until fragrant, about 2 minutes.; Toast the star anise, cinnamon sticks, and black cardamom pods in a large pan over medium-low heat until fragrant, about 2 minutes.; Toast the star anise, cinnamon sticks, and black cardamom pods in a large pan over medium-low heat until fragrant, about 2 minutes.; Place these spices in a spice ball or large tea or spice bag(s), or wrap in a piece of cheesecloth. Add the spices and the charred onion and ginger to the stockpot 30 to 45 minutes before serving, so the aroma stays fresh and tempting.; Place these spices in a spice ball or large tea or spice bag(s), or wrap in a piece of cheesecloth. Add the spices and the charred onion and ginger to the stockpot 30 to 45 minutes before serving, so the aroma stays fresh and tempting.; Place these spices in a spice ball or large tea or spice bag(s), or wrap in a piece of cheesecloth. Add the spices and the charred onion and ginger to the stockpot 30 to 45 minutes before serving, so the aroma stays fresh and tempting.; Place these spices in a spice ball or large tea or spice bag(s), or wrap in a piece of cheesecloth. Add the spices and the charred onion and ginger to the stockpot 30 to 45 minutes before serving, so the aroma stays fresh and tempting.

Preparation info

Difficulty
Easy

Appears in

Simply Pho

By Helen Le

Published 2017

About

This is an absolute must to get the pho broth’s distinctive aroma. In Vietnam, we char the roots directly over an open flame on the stove, and the neighbors can tell what’s cooking from the lovely smell. If you have an electric stove, lay a piece of aluminum foil on top of the burner and place the roots on top to char. Another option is to broil them in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for 10 minutes.

As quite a few spices are crucial to achieve the pho aroma, here’s a guide to help you re

Method