Buzz
Hanoi boasts hundreds, even thousands, of pho establishments. However, Pho 49 Bat Dan consistently draws crowds so large that customers have to queue up for a bowl of pho. Let's find out what makes this pho spot so appealing!
Pho Bat Dan is acclaimed for preserving the original flavor of Hanoi pho, rich and aromatic. Many people line up from early morning just to savor a bowl of Pho Bat Dan. The scene resembles the distribution of goods during the rationing era with ration coupons.
Pho Bat Dan, like many other pho brands, is made from basic ingredients such as beef, pork marrow bones, onions, fresh ginger, shallots, coriander seeds, coffee, cilantro roots, star anise, dried cinnamon, sugar cane, pho noodles, onions, coriander, lime, MSG, fish sauce, salt, chili sauce, black bean sauce, sugar, pepper, and cooking oil. However, during preparation to create the unique flavor of Pho Bat Dan, the owner has some secret techniques to make it stand out.
Ingredients for Crafting Pho Bat Dan
To achieve the authentic flavor of Pho Bat Dan, ingredient selection is crucial. This includes specific criteria for choosing pho noodles. The noodles should be no longer than 20 cm, rectangular in cross-section, and of moderate thickness. The color should be natural, with a slightly cloudy white appearance. If the noodles are overly bright white, it indicates chemical additives and excessive starch. The surface of the noodles should be smooth, emitting a fragrance of rice when tested, becoming sweeter and maintaining a certain elasticity upon chewing.
Broth - the essence of Pho Bat Dan
A delicious bowl of pho is created from various factors, from the source of ingredients to the meticulous dedication of the maker. Particularly, the broth plays a crucial role in imparting aromatic flavors. Every renowned bowl of pho has its own secret in crafting the broth. The delectable taste of Pho Bat Dan broth distinguishes it uniquely. The broth is simmered from marrow bones to extract natural sweetness. Clean the bones thoroughly, blanch them in boiling water to remove any unpleasant odor. Then, fill the pot with water and add various herbs and roots for simmering. Initially, maintain high heat until the water boils vigorously, then reduce to a simmer to cook the bones slowly, adjusting the heat as needed to ensure the broth simmers gently with bubbles rolling on the surface.
Simultaneously, during the simmering process, skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface. Since the bones are simmered for a long time, the liquid may evaporate, requiring the addition of cold water and appropriate heat adjustments, ensuring that the marrow's sweetness fully infuses with the aromatic flavors of the herbs and roots. The broth should be clear, with a certain degree of transparency.
However, the broth of Pho Bat Dan has a distinct flavor unlike any other pho recipe. The broth is solely derived from the sweetness of the simmered bones and the aroma of fish sauce without the use of any seasoning powder or bouillon cubes. The broth is sweet and fragrant, with all the aromas of the herbs taking turns to shine in every spoonful. Scooping up a neatly arranged bundle of pho noodles onto the spoon and immediately bringing it to the mouth with a spoonful of broth gives the sensation of the pho noodles melting in the mouth, with the delicious flavor permeating from the tip of the tongue to the throat. Diners will be immersed in the rustic Northern flavors of the dish that everyone enjoys, a taste deeply rooted in Hanoi.
The allure of Pho Bat Dan
Pho Bat Dan is delicious because its broth is sweet without being greasy, fragrant without being overpowering. It's safe to say there's nothing better than a bowl of Pho Bat Dan; finishing one bowl only makes you crave for another.
Clear and flavorful pho broth (Photo: ST)
Speaking of Pho Bat Dan, one could indulge in it all day without getting bored. Whether it's for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Pho Bat Dan is always a perfect choice. Its simplicity, deliciousness, and universality make it irresistible to all, not just locals but also discerning tourists who flock to Bat Dan street willing to wait in line for a taste of Hanoi's specialty. The steaming bowls of pho emit enticing aromas, and the act of slurping the noodles and broth is an experience of pure delight.
Outside the eatery, the hustle and bustle of people coming and going, packed tables, and the busy proprietor tirelessly serving, from slicing the meats to dunking them in the broth, and then carrying the bowls... The owner's dedication is evident, as hungry customers eagerly queue up early and patiently wait for their turn to savor Pho Bat Dan.
Original Hanoi-style pho restaurant (Photo: ST)
Customers queuing up for pho (Photo: ST)
The proprietor tirelessly serving (Photo: ST)
Foreign customers seeking the famous Pho Bat Dan (Photo: ST)
The only address for authentic Bat Dan Pho is 49 Bat Dan, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi. The signboard of the eatery clearly states “Traditional Pho, no branches”, indicating the unique appeal of Bat Dan Pho. While other pho establishments resort to various marketing tactics, 49 Bat Dan Pho thrives without flashy promotions, consistently drawing crowds from early morning till late at night. Perhaps it's the adage “Good fragrance will spread on its own”, where the excellence of the dish speaks for itself, attracting customers through word of mouth.
Hope this article has brought new insights into Bat Dan Pho. Wishing you always delightful and satisfying meals.
