Unique Pho with Burnt Liver

BAC NINH - One of the unique dishes that many people love when visiting Bac Ninh is pho with burnt liver. This is a rustic yet sophisticated dish, reflecting the distinctive characteristics of Northern Vietnamese culinary culture.

Pho gan chay (fried pork liver pho) is an interesting variation of traditional pho, combining fragrant and sweet broth, soft and chewy rice noodles, and especially fried pork liver. This dish originated from the creativity of the people, utilizing familiar ingredients but preparing them in a novel way to create a distinctive flavor.

The highlight of pho with charred liver lies in the harmonious combination of ingredients: the liver is meticulously prepared, retaining its rich, fatty texture without drying out; the broth is simmered from bones for many hours, resulting in a naturally sweet and savory flavor; and the soft, smooth rice noodles fully absorb the flavors from the broth and the charred liver.

It is known that to achieve such a flavor, pho with burnt liver must be meticulously prepared by the seller at every step. First, fresh pork liver is carefully cleaned to remove any unpleasant odor, then fried over high heat until crispy on the edges, yet still retaining its tenderness and aroma inside. The broth is the soul of the pho. Unlike typical pho broth, pho with burnt liver has a rich, dark brown color, a subtly sweet flavor combined with the aroma of burnt liver, creating a unique taste.

A complete bowl of pho includes stir-fried liver, lean pork (preferably tenderloin, thinly sliced), and marinated kidney stir-fried with onions, tomatoes, and garlic. When enjoying it, diners will experience the harmonious blend of the rich, fatty flavor of the stir-fried liver, the delicate sweetness of the broth, and the soft texture of the rice noodles.

The dish is further enhanced by the aroma of fried onions, black pepper, and fresh herbs. All of these elements create a unique culinary symphony, deeply rooted in Northern Vietnamese cuisine. Currently, pho with burnt liver is widely sold in Vu Ninh and Kinh Bac wards, among others.

Pho gan chay (pho with burnt liver) is not only a delicious dish but also holds significant cultural value. It is a testament to the culinary creativity of Bac Ninh people – a region that always knows how to preserve and develop its traditional beauty. This dish is often chosen by locals and tourists alike for gatherings, or simply to enjoy a complete breakfast.

Minh Hanh (compiled)

Source: https://baobacninhtv.vn/doc-dao-pho-gan-chay-postid445164.bbg