INGREDIENTS
3 chicken leg quarters (or 1 whole chicken)
10 cups water
2 large onions, peeled
4 oz ginger, peeled and sliced
1/3 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp fish sauce (adjust to taste)
2 tsp kosher salt (adjust to taste)
Spice bag:
– 1 tbsp fennel seeds
– 1 tbsp coriander seeds
– 4 star anise
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 5 cardamom pods
1–2 tbsp Pompeian Smooth EVOO (for searing onions and ginger)
For the Noodles:
Rice noodles
Cook in boiling water for 2 minutes, rinse under cold water, and toss with 1 tsp Pompeian Smooth EVOO.
For the Garnishes:
Cilantro
Green onions
Thai basil
Bean sprouts
Lime wedges
For the Condiments:
Hoisin sauce
Sriracha
Homemade Chili Oil:
– ½ cup Pompeian Smooth EVOO
– 2 tbsp chili flakes
– 1 tsp minced garlic
– 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
– ½ tsp salt
PREPARATION
- Heat 2 tablespoons of Pompeian Smooth EVOO in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and ginger, searing until golden and fragrant. This creates a rich, flavorful foundation for the broth.
- Add the chicken, water, brown sugar, fish sauce, kosher salt, and the spice bag to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 45–60 minutes, skimming any impurities. Once the chicken is tender, remove it from the broth, shred the meat, and discard the bones.
- Cook rice noodles in boiling water for 45 seconds, then rinse under cold water. Toss with 1 teaspoon of Pompeian Smooth EVOO to keep them silky and prevent sticking.
- Heat Pompeian Robust EVOO in a small saucepan over low heat. Add chili flakes, garlic, sesame seeds (if using), and salt. Stir gently and remove from heat once the mixture is aromatic. Let cool before serving.
- Divide the noodles among bowls, top with shredded chicken, and ladle the hot broth over the top.
- Top each bowl with cilantro, green onions, Thai basil, bean sprouts, a squeeze of lime and a drizzle of Robust EVOO. Serve with hoisin sauce, sriracha, and the homemade chili oil for added flavor
Tip: Let Pompeian Smooth EVOO bring out the richness in your broth, and finish with Pompeian Robust EVOO for a bold, flavorful drizzle. This Chicken Pho is winter comfort at its finest!