Directions:

Now that we’ve provided the possible ingredients, let’s start cooking!

The Soup Stock/Broth

Step 1: In a large pot or pan, boil 3-5 cups of water and bring to a boil under low-medium heat.

Step 2: While the water is being brought to boil, roast the onion, shallots and ginger until dark grill marks appear. Simply put, char them a little. It takes about 5-7 minutes. You can use a mini toaster, an oven or a grill press.

Step 3: Prepare the fruits and vegetables:

Cut the apple and pear in half and remove the core. Cut each piece in half and set aside

Quarter the turnip

Peel the carrots and cut into 1-inch pieces

Step 4: Using a disposable tea bag, put the cinnamon sticks, star anise, and cloves inside and drop it into the boiling water. Add the onions, shallots, ginger, fruits and vegetables into the pot.

Step 5: Change the heat setting to medium-low. Add the vegetable bouillon cube and let it simmer for 30-35 minutes.

Step 6: While it is simmering, you can add salt or soy sauce to taste. You can add the bok choy once the soup is cooked (blanch) since it cooks easily. This is to keep it fresh and crisp.

Toppings

Step 1: Put a small amount of cooking oil in a skillet and add half of the chopped leeks and fry until they are golden brown or fragrant.

Step 2: Add the sliced mushrooms and 1/2 head of broccoli then season with a little salt and pepper. Pour 1/4 cup of soup stock for flavor and set it aside.

Step 3: If the oil is not enough, add a little more then put in the rest of the chopped leeks then add the tofu slices and fry until golden brown and set aside.

Noodles

Once the soup and toppings are ready, you’re now ready to cook the noodles.

Step 1: Wash the rice noodles and immerse it in boiling water for about 5-10 minutes or until ready.

Step 2: Using a strainer or colander, drain the water and you’re now ready to eat.

Putting Everything Together

Step 1: Place the desired amount of noodles you would like and add your desired amount of toppings – tofu, mushrooms, bok choy, etc.

Step 2: Pour the soup stock over and sprinkle with garnishes – basil, green onions, bean sprouts or other herbs like cilantro or mint leaves

Step 3: Add hoisin sauce then squeeze some lemon over the soup.

Step 4: Serve and enjoy!

Tips:

Any type of tofu would be alright. You can use seasoned tofu, firm tofu, etc.

You can add more apples and pears if you would like sweet-tasting soup stock.

Put in as much toppings as you want since it is a homemade dish. You don’t have to restrain yourself. It is alright because the ingredients are healthy and good for your body.

If you want a spicy soup, you can add sliced jalapenos to your garnishes.

Trivia

Pho is said to have originated from the French dish pot-au-feu although it is being disputed by many. Pho is not complete with the following key ingredients: