Pho Hanoi: Warming Taste of Heritage

When mentioning Hanoi, the image of ancient streets, bustling street vendors or steaming pho restaurants every early morning are typical images in the minds of the capital's people. Recently, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has issued Decision No. 2328/QD-BVHTTDL to include Hanoi pho in the list of national intangible cultural heritage. Thach Lam in his work "Hanoi thirty-six streets" wrote: "In Hanoi, people do not only eat to be full but also eat to enjoy, to subtly feel the wonderful flavors of the dishes. Eating in Hanoi is a delicacy, a cultural enjoyment, not only to satisfy the stomach but also to satisfy the soul. The flavors of Hanoi dishes evoke memories, warm, familiar feelings, and remind people of a past full of memories." When walking through the streets of Hanoi in the early morning, it is not difficult to come across pho stalls with steaming bowls of pho, the aroma of sweet pho broth spreading throughout the streets. Hanoi pho is famous for its sophistication in preparation, from the selection of ingredients to the cooking. The broth is simmered from beef bones, adding spices such as cinnamon, star anise, cardamom... creating a rich, sweet flavor, completely different from pho dishes in other regions. The thin, soft pho noodles serve as the background flavor, thanks to which the taste of the diner will not be overwhelmed by the taste of pho noodles. When combined with rare, well-done beef, brisket, flank and a little green onion, a bowl of pho is a combination of flavors, not only satisfying the taste buds but also touching the soul of the diner. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="800"] Long-standing pho shops. Photo: danviet.vn[/caption] Hanoi pho has existed for a long time, associated with the historical stories of the capital. Over time, Hanoi pho has become an indispensable part of people's lives, a familiar breakfast dish for many families. From small pho shops on the roadside to luxury restaurants, from domestic to foreign, Hanoi pho has its place in the hearts of diverse diners, soothing the stomachs of people from all over the world. The recognition of Hanoi pho as a national intangible heritage is not only a cultural recognition but also a motivation to preserve and promote the value of this dish. In the context of modern society, when many fast and convenient foods are gradually dominating the market, Hanoi pho still maintains its position, becoming a symbol of steadfastness and pride in traditional cuisine. Preserving the original flavor, sophisticated preparation, and creativity in combining new ingredients have helped Hanoi pho not only maintain its appeal but also develop more and more, attracting the attention of many domestic and foreign diners. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="800"] Beef noodle soup is a delicious dish, famous far and wide. Photo: Collected[/caption] To have the sophistication, gentleness, and sweetness of a bowl of pho, Hanoians must take meticulous care from the way they choose ingredients, how they cook, or how they add spices. When enjoying it, we seem to embrace the image of mothers and sisters who work hard to take care of family meals and still exude elegance and gentleness in every gesture. Hanoi pho has only recently been recognized as an intangible heritage, but in the hearts of Hanoians, pho has long been a "heritage". The aroma rises under the cold winter weather, each strand is rich and lingers in the heart. In the constant flow of time, Hanoi pho still retains its traditional flavor, and is still a dish that captivates many diners. Hanoi pho is still there, as a historical witness, as a symbol of perseverance, of respect for long-standing values. Hanoians, no matter where they go, still cannot forget the moment of enjoying a bowl of sweet pho mixed with the noisy sounds of the city, all creating the unique character of the capital. It is true as the writer Thach Lam once said: “Memory is a necessity for love of homeland…”

Hoang Anh