PhoTum: A Delightful Twist on Traditional Pho

Welcome to the flavorful world of PhoTum, where the aromatic warmth of traditional Vietnamese pho meets the crispness of summer’s bounty. If you’re a fan of classic pho but are looking for a lighter option that celebrates seasonal produce, then this recipe is for you!

Ingredients:

• 1 liter of beef or chicken stock
• 2 star anise
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 3 cloves
• 1 cardamom pod
• 1-inch piece of ginger, sliced
• 1 onion, halved and charred
• 200 grams rice noodles
• 100 grams bean sprouts
• 200 grams mixed summer vegetables (e.g., zucchini, bell peppers, snap peas)
• 200 grams protein of choice (e.g., thinly sliced beef, chicken, or tofu)
• Fresh herbs (e.g., basil, cilantro, mint)
• 2 limes, cut into wedges
• Fish sauce, hoisin sauce, and sriracha to taste
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, bring the stock to a gentle simmer. Add star anise, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, ginger, and charred onion. Simmer for at least 30 minutes to infuse the broth with flavors.
2. Meanwhile, prepare the rice noodles according to the package instructions and set aside.
3. Blanch the summer vegetables and bean sprouts in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, until just tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
4. Prepare your protein – if using meat, ensure it is thinly sliced so it cooks quickly when added to the hot broth.
5. Once the broth is fragrant, strain out the spices and onion, and return the clear broth to the pot. Season with fish sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Assemble the PhoTum bowls by placing a portion of the cooked noodles in each bowl. Layer on the blanched vegetables, bean sprouts, and protein.
7. Ladle the hot, steaming broth over each bowl, ensuring the protein cooks in the heat of the broth (if using meat).
8. Garnish with fresh herbs, lime wedges, and additional sauces such as hoisin and sriracha for extra flavor.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy the harmony of traditional pho and fresh summer flavors.

There you have it, a beautiful bowl of PhoTum that perfectly captures the essence of summer and the comforting hug of classic pho. This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds. Happy cooking!