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Vietnamese beef noodle soup is called Pho. Pho has both French and Chinese origins. Authentic pho is simmered for hours to maximize the flavors. In Vietnam, Pho is typically a breakfast dish.
Pho is the national dish of Vietnam and one of the most recognizable soups in the world. Its origins date back to the early 20th century in northern Vietnam, where it emerged from a blend of local culinary traditions and foreign influence.
The dish reflects both Chinese and French culinary impact. Rice noodles and aromatic spices such as star anise were influenced by Chinese cooking, while the practice of long-simmered beef bone broth is often linked to French techniques introduced during colonial rule. Over time, Vietnamese cooks adapted these elements into a uniquely local dish.
Traditionally, pho is simmered for many hours to produce a clear, deeply flavored broth. In Vietnam, it is most commonly eaten for breakfast, especially in the early morning hours, served fresh from street stalls and small eateries.
Pho varies by region. Northern styles tend to be simpler and more restrained, while southern versions are often served with a wider range of herbs and condiments. Despite these differences, pho remains a daily staple and a symbol of Vietnamese culinary identity.