What To Serve With Pho

Ah, pho! That heavenly Vietnamese soup that’s captured the hearts and taste buds of food lovers across the globe.

You’ve mastered the art of making a steaming bowl of this delectable delight with its savory broth, tender noodles, and succulent meats.

But wait – what about those side dishes? Does one simply serve up their masterpiece without considering accompaniments to elevate it even further?

Fear not; we’re here to guide you through some fabulous options guaranteed to complement your culinary creation.

Let’s face it: pho is an enthralling dish on its own, but knowing which sides will enhance its flavors can take it from great to extraordinary.

Whether you’re whipping up a cozy meal for two or feeding a ravenous crowd at your next dinner party, we’ve got your back.

In this article, we’ll explore various mouthwatering sides that pair perfectly with our beloved star – pho.

From simple yet scrumptious veggies to more elaborate fare like spring rolls and grilled delicacies, get ready to be inspired and make your pho experience truly unforgettable!

Why These Side Dishes Goes Well With PHO – By Chef Natalie

To save you time, and to make your decision easy, I have built a nice chart on why these side dishes go well with Pho!

1. Fresh Vietnamese Spring Rolls

Imagine walking through a bustling Vietnamese market, taking in the vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas of fresh produce.

As you wander past various stalls, your senses are awakened by the sight of spring roll variations piled high on platters – some wrapped with translucent rice paper revealing colorful fillings within, others fried to golden perfection.

The experience is akin to discovering an artist’s palette brimming with culinary delights that not only please the eye but also promise to satisfy the palate.

As an expert chef, I must emphasize that one cannot simply serve pho without considering its complementing side dishes.

Fresh Vietnamese spring rolls make for a delightful accompaniment as they offer a variety of textures and flavors that harmonize beautifully with steaming bowls of fragrant broth and tender noodles.

To elevate this already exquisite pairing, consider experimenting with different dipping sauce ideas like hoisin-peanut sauce for a sweet and savory twist or nuoc cham for a tangy kick that will leave your taste buds singing.

The beauty of crafting homemade spring rolls lies in their versatility; they can be tailored to suit any preference or dietary restriction while still delivering delectable bites bursting with freshness.

By incorporating various combinations of herbs, vegetables, proteins, and even fruits into your creations, you’ll find yourself effortlessly impressing guests time after time.

And if you’re seeking another divine dish to accompany your pho feast besides these scrumptious spring rolls? Look no further than crisp vegetable stir-fry!

2. Crisp Vegetable Stir-Fry

A Crisp Vegetable Stir-Fry is an outstanding accompaniment to a steaming bowl of pho. It not only brings in the contrasting textures, but also adds vibrancy and color to your meal.

A great stir-fry should be packed with vibrant veggies that are cooked just right – tender-crisp and bursting with flavor.

As an expert chef, I recommend using a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, snow peas, baby corn, and bok choy for this quick stir fry.

To make this scrumptious side dish even more delectable, choose a mouthwatering sauce that complements both the flavors of your pho broth and the fresh produce in your stir-fry.

An ideal sauce would combine savory elements such as soy sauce or fish sauce with sweet notes from honey or brown sugar.

To bring some heat to the table, add chili flakes or freshly minced garlic into the mix.

Remember that achieving balance is key when it comes to harmonizing all components on your plate.

As you embark on creating this memorable dining experience, don’t forget about presentation!

Be sure to arrange those gorgeous vegetables beautifully atop a serving platter before drizzling them generously with that lip-smacking homemade sauce we talked about earlier.

This will ensure each bite leaves your guests craving for more while they admire your culinary prowess at work.

Now that you have mastered this delightful Crisp Vegetable Stir-Fry recipe, let’s move on to another exceptional pairing: flavorful grilled lemongrass chicken which awaits us in our next section.

3. Flavorful Grilled Lemongrass Chicken

As we move on from the delightful crisp vegetable stir-fry, let us dive into a dish that pairs perfectly with pho – the flavorful grilled lemongrass chicken.

Infused with the tantalizing aroma and taste of lemongrass, this succulent chicken recipe is guaranteed to elevate your culinary experience.

Lemongrass not only imparts its unique citrusy flavor but also offers numerous health benefits, making it an essential ingredient in many Southeast Asian dishes.

To begin, you must master the art of creating exquisite chicken marinades. A well-crafted marinade ensures that every bite of your grilled lemongrass chicken bursts with aromatic flavors while retaining optimum tenderness.

In our signature marinade, fragrant lemongrass mingles harmoniously with garlic, ginger, shallots, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar or palm sugar (for sweetness), and freshly ground black pepper.

The secret lies in balancing these bold ingredients so each one complements rather than overpowering the others.

Once you have concocted this irresistible mixture for marinating your choice cuts of chicken (preferably boneless thighs or breasts), allow them ample time to absorb all those delectable flavors before grilling over medium-high heat until perfectly charred and cooked through.

Remember to baste generously during cooking to achieve a luscious glaze and moist interior! Your guests will be transported straight to the bustling streets of Vietnam as they savor each tender mouthful alongside their steaming bowls of pho.

Next up on our gastronomic journey are crunchy pickled vegetables—stay tuned!

4. Crunchy Pickled Vegetables

Ah, the delightful crunch and tang of pickled vegetables – a perfect accompaniment to your sumptuous pho.

By employing various pickling techniques, you can effortlessly create an assortment of crunchy delights that will bring balance and contrast to your meal.

Choosing the right vegetable selection is crucial; after all, we’re looking for a harmonious marriage between textures and flavors.

Now then, dear reader, let’s peruse some scrumptious options for our crunchy pickle platter:

• Daikon and carrot: These two go together like peas in a pod! Thinly slice or julienne them before immersing in a simple mixture of vinegar, sugar, salt, and water.

• Cucumber: A classic favorite; their natural crispness only intensifies when lightly pickled. Slice them thin or cut into spears for optimal enjoyment.

• Green beans: Blanch these beauties before giving them the royal treatment with garlic cloves, dill seeds or fresh dill sprigs, black peppercorns, mustard seeds (optional) & red pepper flakes – oh my!

• Cauliflower florets: They may not be everyone’s cup of tea but mark my words; once they’ve soaked up the brine’s tart notes alongside celery seeds and crushed red pepper flakes – there’ll be no turning back!

As we bid adieu to this section on elevating your pho experience with delectable pickled veggies created by your very hands using time-honored techniques — remember: variety truly is the spice of life.

So don’t hesitate to mix-and-match different combinations depending on seasonal availability or personal preferences.

As we saunter now into our next culinary adventure with aromatic steamed jasmine rice as another luscious side dish option…

5. Aromatic Steamed Jasmine Rice

Ah, the delicate and fragrant Jasmine rice – a perfect companion to your scrumptious pho.

Not only does this delightful grain add an extra layer of aroma to the dish, but it also provides a host of jasmine rice benefits for your health.

Rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, Jasmine rice offers both taste and nutrition while completing your Vietnamese feast.

Mastering rice cooking techniques is essential when preparing aromatic steamed Jasmine rice.

Begin by rinsing the grains under cold water until it runs clear; this step removes any lingering starches that may cause clumping or stickiness during cooking.

Next, soak the rice for 15-30 minutes before draining – this will help shorten the cooking time and ensure perfectly tender results.

Finally, steam the soaked grains using either a traditional bamboo steamer or an electric rice cooker with a touch of salt and some fresh pandan leaves if available.

The result? A fluffy bed of heavenly scented Jasmine rice awaiting its place beside your piping hot bowl of pho.

So now you have achieved excellence in crafting exquisite aromatic steamed Jasmine rice as an accompaniment to your savory pho experience.

Your guests will marvel at how these flavors harmoniously meld together on their palate – each bite delivering comfort and satisfaction beyond measure.

And just when you think things couldn’t get better than this culinary masterpiece, we prepare ourselves to venture into another realm of flavor: spicy chili garlic sauce!

6. Spicy Chili Garlic Sauce

Preparing the Spicy Chili Garlic Sauce is easy! Just mix chilli peppers, garlic, and oil to your liking and you’ve got yourself a delicious condiment.

It’s great for adding a kick to foods like pho, stir fries, and noodle dishes.

Not only is it tasty, it’s also packed with nutritious benefits like antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great addition to any meal.

Making Spicy Chili Garlic Sauce

There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of creating your own Spicy Chili Garlic Sauce to complement a steaming bowl of pho. It elevates the dish, adding heat and flavor that you just can’t replicate with store-bought varieties. Making this sauce at home allows you to customize it according to your preferences, whether that means dialing up the spice or incorporating extra garlic for added depth.

When crafting this culinary masterpiece, consider experimenting with different chili sauce pairings. For instance, combining Sriracha with Sambal Oelek will result in a beautiful marriage of flavors – tangy with a touch of sweetness from the former and earthiness from the latter.

Additionally, try playing around with various garlic infusion methods: roasting whole cloves beforehand lends an irresistible smokiness while mincing fresh ones provides pungency and bite.

In order to create a well-rounded Spicy Chili Garlic Sauce, don’t forget about seasonings such as salt, sugar, lime juice or even fish sauce – all important ingredients that’ll help balance out fiery notes and bring harmony to your creation.

Once you’ve perfected your recipe, remember that this versatile condiment isn’t limited to use in pho alone; feel free to slather it on grilled meats or mix into stir-fries for an extra kick!

Uses For Spicy Chili Garlic Sauce

Now that you’ve mastered the art of crafting a delectable Spicy Chili Garlic Sauce, let’s dive into its myriad uses in various dishes.

It’s not just for pho, my friends; this versatile wonder can be incorporated into countless recipes to add depth and complexity to your culinary creations.

As an expert chef, I must emphasize that exploring new applications for your favorite condiments is key to expanding your palate and elevating your gastronomic prowess.

One mouthwatering dish to consider is chili garlic noodles – trust me, they’ll knock your socks off!

Simply stir-fry some cooked noodles with veggies and proteins of your choice, then toss it all together with a generous helping of your homemade Spicy Chili Garlic Sauce.

Alternatively, spicy sauce marinades work wonders when used on meats such as chicken or pork before grilling or roasting.

The flavors will penetrate deep into the fibers, resulting in tender morsels bursting with fiery goodness.

Of course, these are merely suggestions meant to inspire creativity in the kitchen.

You’re encouraged to experiment and discover even more delicious ways to incorporate your Spicy Chili Garlic Sauce into everyday meals.

After all, there’s no limit to what one can achieve when armed with a killer condiment!

Health Benefits Of Spicy Chili Garlic Sauce

Now that we’ve explored the tantalizing possibilities of Spicy Chili Garlic Sauce in various dishes, let’s not forget about its health benefits. That’s right, this fiery concoction isn’t just a taste bud pleaser; it’s also packed with nutrients and properties that can give your body a much-needed boost.

As an immune booster, chili peppers contain capsaicin – a compound known for its anti-inflammatory effects and ability to fight off infections. Meanwhile, garlic is well-known for its antibacterial and antiviral properties, making it an excellent ally against colds and flu.

Additionally, incorporating spicy foods into your diet can help kickstart your metabolism by increasing thermogenesis – the process by which your body generates heat to burn calories. So go ahead and indulge in some Spicy Chili Garlic Sauce without any guilt!

In conclusion, don’t be afraid to embrace the heat when cooking up new recipes featuring our beloved sauce. Not only will you delight your taste buds with bold flavors, but you’ll also reap numerous health benefits along the way. The sky’s the limit when armed with this versatile condiment!

7. Tantalizing Vietnamese Crepes

Once you’ve indulged in the delightful symphony of flavors that is pho, it’s time to embark on an exquisite culinary adventure with a side dish that’ll not only complement your main course but also leave you craving for more.

Allow me to introduce you to Tantalizing Vietnamese Crepes – a delicate and savory treat that will surely captivate your taste buds.

There are countless crepe variations out there, each boasting its own unique personality. However, what sets these Vietnamese gems apart from the rest is their unconventional fillings and distinctive texture.

Made from rice flour and coconut milk, they boast a crispy exterior while still maintaining an air of lightness within. To further enhance this divine experience, consider experimenting with some popular filling options:

• Succulent shrimp marinated in garlic and fish sauce
• Tender slices of pork belly cooked to perfection
• Fresh bean sprouts imparting just the right amount of crunch
• Aromatic herbs such as mint or cilantro adding pops of flavor

As we reach the culmination of our journey exploring tantalizing Vietnamese crepes, let us take a moment to appreciate how they perfectly complement any bowl of pho by offering different textures and tastes that elevate one another when consumed together.

The marriage between these two seemingly distinct dishes creates a harmony so sublime that it can only be described as pure gastronomic bliss.

So go ahead – indulge yourself in this heavenly combination knowing full well that no meal would be complete without it.

With our newfound appreciation for Vietnamese cuisine now firmly established, allow me to guide you towards yet another palatable delight – refreshing green papaya salad…

8. Refreshing Green Papaya Salad

1. To make a delicious and refreshing green papaya salad, you’ll need green papaya, fish sauce, garlic, lime, chili pepper, and sugar.

2. For the best flavor, grate the papaya and garlic, and mix together with the fish sauce, lime juice, chili pepper, and sugar.

3. Fry the garlic and chili pepper in a pan with some oil, then add the papaya and fish sauce and cook until combined.

4. Finally, top off the salad with the lime juice and a sprinkle of sugar.

5. Serve the green papaya salad with a bowl of steaming hot pho for a truly delicious meal.

6. A refreshing green papaya salad is the perfect accompaniment to a bowl of pho – enjoy!

Green Papaya Salad Ingredients

Ah, the refreshing green papaya salad – a perfect accompaniment to your steaming bowl of pho. We’re talking about an explosion of flavors and textures that’ll leave your taste buds yearning for more!

So let’s dive right into the essential ingredients that make this delightful side dish irresistible.

When it comes to tropical fruit pairings, nothing quite compares to the combination of crisp, unripe green papaya with aromatic herbs like Thai basil, mint, and cilantro.

The beauty of using these fragrant greens is their ability to enhance the natural sweetness of the green papaya while adding layers of fresh flavor profiles.

Of course, you can’t forget fiery red bird’s eye chilies or bold shallots that lend a dynamic contrast in both color and taste. And to bind all these exotic elements together? A generous handful of roasted peanuts for added crunch!

Now on to one of my favorite parts: experimenting with exotic dressing variations! You simply cannot go wrong with a classic Vietnamese-style sauce made from fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and minced garlic.

It creates a beautiful balance between sweet, sour, salty, and umami notes; however don’t be afraid to get creative here!

Try incorporating tamarind paste for some tangy depth or even whisking in some creamy coconut milk for added richness.

Your options are endless when crafting this exquisite dressing masterpiece – just remember not to overpower those delicate fruits and vegetables at play within this sensational salad experience!

Making A Green Papaya Salad

Now that we’ve explored the delightful ingredients and exotic dressing variations, it’s time to dive into making a green papaya salad that’ll truly impress your dinner guests.

As an expert chef, I can assure you that once you’ve mastered this unique salad recipe, it’ll become a go-to favorite for showcasing fresh flavors with an exciting twist.

Plus, let’s not forget about those amazing papaya health benefits – packed with vitamins and antioxidants; indulging in this delectable dish is also guilt-free!

To create this masterpiece, start by preparing your unripe green papaya: peel away the outer skin and shred the flesh using either a box grater or julienne peeler. Then

combine your shredded papaya with aromatic herbs like Thai basil, mint, cilantro, fiery chilies, shallots, and roasted peanuts in a large mixing bowl.

Don’t be afraid to mix things up here; feel free to add other veggies such as cucumber or carrot for added crunch! The key is achieving a harmonious balance of tastes and textures.

Once satisfied with your colorful medley of fruits and vegetables, whisk together your choice of exotic dressing (remembering our discussion on fish sauce-based dressings versus tamarind paste or coconut milk-infused creations).

Gently toss everything together until well combined – ensuring each bite will deliver a burst of refreshing flavor sensations.

And there you have it! A vibrant green papaya salad sure to bring excitement to any meal while reaping all its nutritional goodness.

Serving A Green Papaya Salad

Now that you’ve created a show-stopping green papaya salad, let’s talk about how to serve it in style.

As an expert chef, I know presentation is just as important as taste – not only will your guests be wowed by the bright colors and bold flavors, but they’ll also enjoy those wonderful papaya health benefits while savoring each delicious bite.

Feel free to get creative with your serving techniques; try arranging the salad atop large lettuce leaves for an elegant touch or present individual portions on small plates for a more personalized experience.

You might even consider experimenting with different garnishes like lime wedges, fresh herbs, toasted coconut flakes, or more roasted peanuts – this way, you can showcase various salad variations tailored to suit everyone’s tastes.

So go ahead and impress your dinner guests with this refreshing masterpiece that offers both incredible flavor profiles and undeniable nutritional value.

Trust me, once they’ve tasted your sensational green papaya creation, there’ll be no doubt who’s the true culinary genius!

9. Succulent Grilled Pork Skewers

Ah, my dear friends, let me share with you one of the most succulent accompaniments to your pho experience: Grilled Pork Skewers.

Tender and juicy, these skewers will elevate your meal to a whole new level. And worry not, I shall reveal some of my very own pork marinade secrets that have been passed down through generations.

To achieve unparalleled flavor for our mouthwatering grilled pork skewers, we must first discuss an essential aspect – the marinade!

For our delectable concoction, combine fragrant lemongrass (the star ingredient), fish sauce (for that unmistakable umami), brown sugar (to balance the savoriness with sweetness), garlic cloves (because what’s a marinade without it?), ground black pepper (a touch of heat is always welcome) and vegetable oil (just enough to make everything come together).

Let your precious pork pieces bathe in this divine mixture overnight for maximum infusion of flavors.

Now that our pork has absorbed all those tantalizing tastes from the marinade, it’s time for us to master skewer grilling techniques.

Remember, patience is key when grilling – too high heat might cause uneven cooking or charring while low heat may leave them undercooked!

Ensure your coals are evenly distributed beneath the grill grate and allow just enough space between each piece on the skewer so they cook uniformly.

Grill until slightly charred and caramelized on both sides; don’t be afraid to baste with any leftover marinade during cooking as well.

With practice comes perfection – soon enough you’ll be known far and wide for your luscious grilled pork skewers!

Ready to take things up another notch? Allow me to introduce you to an equally scrumptious side dish… crispy fried tofu awaits!

10. Crispy Fried Tofu

Crispy fried tofu is an excellent side dish to serve with pho, as it not only complements the rich and savory broth but also offers outstanding tofu nutrition.

Tofu is a versatile ingredient that can be prepared in various ways, adding delightful texture and flavor to your meal.

As you explore different tofu varieties, you will find that some are better suited for frying than others; firm or extra-firm tofu holds its shape well during the frying process.

To create the perfect crispy fried tofu, follow these simple steps:

1. Drain and press your chosen variety of firm or extra-firm tofu to remove excess moisture.
2. Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes or triangles.
3. Coat each piece evenly with cornstarch for added crispiness when frying.

Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C). Carefully place your coated tofu pieces into the hot oil, ensuring they do not stick together or overcrowd the pan—fry them for about 2-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.

Once done, transfer onto paper towels to absorb any residual oil before serving alongside your delicious bowl of pho.

As you savor the crunchy exterior contrasted by the soft interior of this delectable addition to your pho feast, consider enhancing the experience even further with a zesty lime and cilantro dipping sauce—a topic we shall delve into next!

11. Zesty Lime And Cilantro Dipping Sauce

Imagine a sauce that has the perfect balance of tangy, herbaceous, and spicy flavors. A delightful concoction with the versatility to complement not only pho but also various other dishes.

Allow me to introduce you to Zesty Lime and Cilantro Dipping Sauce – an exquisite citrus fusion guaranteed to elevate your dining experience.

The infusion of lime juice in this dipping sauce creates a zesty kick while cilantro adds a fresh herbal note. The synergy between these two ingredients is what makes this sauce truly remarkable.

Not to mention, incorporating cilantro into your meals comes with numerous health benefits such as being rich in antioxidants, promoting healthy digestion, and even detoxifying properties.

But enough about the fantastic flavor profile; let’s dive into how simple it is to prepare!

Combine freshly squeezed lime juice, finely chopped cilantro leaves, minced garlic cloves, sliced chilies (optional for those who enjoy heat), fish sauce or soy sauce depending on your preference, sugar, and water in a small mixing bowl.

Give everything a good whisk until well combined and voila!

Your Zesty Lime and Cilantro Dipping Sauce is ready for serving alongside steaming bowls of pho or any dish needing an extra burst of zestiness.

Now that we’ve mastered one sublime sidekick for our beloved Vietnamese soup staple let us explore another must-try accompaniment: savory Vietnamese egg rolls.

12. Savory Vietnamese Egg Rolls

Savory Vietnamese egg rolls, also known as cha gio, make a delectable addition to your pho dining experience.

These crispy and flavorful delights offer an exquisite contrast in texture that complements the smooth silkiness of the noodle soup.

By choosing from various egg roll varieties, you can create memorable savory pairings with your bowl of pho.

For those who are unfamiliar with this culinary gem, allow me to enlighten you: Cha gio is made by wrapping a mixture of ground pork, shrimp or chicken, glass noodles, mushrooms, and other seasonings in rice paper before deep-frying them until golden brown.

Served fresh out of the fryer with fish sauce for dipping, these scrumptious morsels possess an irresistible allure that will leave everyone at the table reaching for seconds.

To craft an even more harmonious marriage between your pho and its sidekick dish, I recommend experimenting with different herbs such as Thai basil or cilantro to add a touch of freshness to each bite.

As our taste buds have been thoroughly seduced by these savory Vietnamese egg rolls, we must now turn our attention toward another palate-pleasing accompaniment – light and tangy cucumber salad.

This refreshing side will not only provide balance but also elevate the entire meal into gastronomical perfection.

13. Light And Tangy Cucumber Salad

After indulging in those scrumptious Vietnamese egg rolls, it’s time to lighten up the palate with a refreshing cucumber salad.

As they say, variety is the spice of life; that’s why we’re going to dazzle you with an array of delightful cucumber varieties and zesty salad dressings to create the perfect accompaniment for your pho experience.

The key to making this light and tangy cucumber salad sing lies in selecting just the right cucumbers. With so many enticing options available at your local market or even in your own garden, let yourself be inspired by these four types:

1. English Cucumbers: Known for their slender shape and minimal seeds, English cucumbers are perfect if you prefer a delicate crunch.

2. Persian Cucumbers: Their thin skin allows you to skip peeling altogether, which makes them not only delicious but convenient as well!

3. Armenian Cucumbers: Uniquely ribbed and mild-flavored, these beauties add an interesting texture twist to any dish.

4. Garden Cucumbers: The classic choice for salads—crisp, juicy, and versatile enough for any dressing!

Now that you’ve selected your star ingredient, it’s time to enhance their natural flavors with some mouthwatering salad dressings.

Whether you opt for a simple vinaigrette or something more daring like a fusion of Asian-inspired flavors – think soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil – don’t be afraid to experiment!

The beauty of this dish is its flexibility: combine different ingredients based on what tickles your taste buds or complements other dishes at hand.

To further elevate this vibrant salad into a symphony of textures and tastes, consider adding slivers of red onion or shallots for bite; aromatic herbs such as mint or cilantro for freshness; roasted peanuts or cashews for crunch; and a sprinkling of chili flakes for that extra kick.

With each delightful forkful, your taste buds will dance with delight as they experience this light and tangy cucumber salad – the perfect companion to any pho feast!

Conclusion

In conclusion, dear food enthusiasts, the art of pairing dishes with pho is a delightful exploration that will undoubtedly tantalize your taste buds.

The symphony of flavors and textures from fresh Vietnamese spring rolls to light and tangy cucumber salad shall elevate your dining experience to celestial heights.

So go forth, my fellow culinary adventurers – let your senses be enthralled by these exquisite accompaniments!

May you relish in every bite as you discover the harmony between the vibrant essence of pho and its delectable counterparts.

Bon appétit!