Pho is a traditional Vietnamese cuisine staple featuring noodles in a seasoned beef or chicken broth. Pho is steeped in Vietnam’s culture and history, and understanding the origins of its global popularity worldwide will give you a deeper appreciation the next time you sit down to a bowl of pho for dinner. Below is a brief guide to the history behind this delectable dish.

Origins of Pho

Pho is thought to originate from the Hanoi region in northern Vietnam, with the earliest records being around the time the French colonized Vietnam in the 1880s. A prominent theory holds that the word “pho” comes from the French beef stew called “pot au feu,” which the Vietnamese adapted to suit their ingredients and lifestyle. The earliest pho recipes consisted of rice noodles in a rich, light broth made from steeping beef bones for hours, with subtle spices used to enhance the flavor. 

Evolution of Pho

Pho originated in the northern part of Vietnam, but it spread to the southern area and Saigon region after World War II. When people from the north moved to the democratic south during this period, they brought pho with them. Food and garnishes were more readily available in southern Vietnam, and this led to a change in the traditional variety of pho, known as pho bac. With this new abundance of ingredients, additions like chicken and fish, vegetables, and sauces were added to the noodles, creating a more robust, complex, and flavorful dish called pho nam. 

Pho’s Growing Popularity

In the wake of the Vietnam war, many Vietnamese emigrated to other countries, including the United States. Southern pho nam was often introduced to other cultures through Vietnamese restaurants, which used local ingredients to create their own varieties. As a result, their versions of pho varied depending upon local flavors and preferences; however, at its core, the dish still consisted of noodles in a rich broth.

The best pho is made with authentic recipes that use quality noodles and traditional broths. Mamasan’s Vietnamese restaurant in Rochester, NY, has been serving classic dishes since 1984, with modern takes that pay homage to traditional recipes while creating unique flavors. They’re known for their variety of sauces to flavor their numerous dinner, lunch, and dessert offerings, as well as a welcoming atmosphere. View their menu online, and call (507) 526-3033 to place an order or make a reservation.