Sheepshead Pho

Sheepshead Pho Recipe

Ingredients:

- 1 sheephead (about 2-3 pounds), cleaned and scaled

- 10 cups water

- 1 large onion, peeled and halved

- 3-inch piece of ginger, sliced

- 2 cinnamon sticks

- 3 star anise

- 5 cloves

- 2 cardamom pods

- 1 tablespoon coriander seeds

- 1 teaspoon fennel seeds

- 1 tablespoon salt, or to taste

- 2 tablespoons fish sauce

- 1 tablespoon sugar

- 8 ounces dried rice noodles (banh pho)

- Fresh herbs (Thai basil, cilantro, mint)

- Bean sprouts

- Lime wedges

- Sliced chili peppers (optional)

- Hoisin sauce and sriracha sauce (optional)

Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Broth**: In a large stockpot, add water and bring it to a boil. Add the sheepshead carcass, onion, ginger, cinnamon sticks, star anise, cloves, cardamom pods, coriander seeds, and fennel seeds. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 2-3 hours, skimming any foam that rises to the surface.

2. **Char the Aromatics**: While the broth is simmering, place the halved onion and ginger slices on a baking sheet. Broil in the oven or char over an open flame until they are slightly blackened, about 5-7 minutes.

3. **Season the Broth**: After simmering for a few hours, add salt, fish sauce, and sugar to the broth. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference. Simmer for an additional 30 minutes.

4. **Prepare the Rice Noodles**: While the broth is simmering, cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

5. **Assemble the Pho Bowls**: Divide the cooked rice noodles among serving bowls.

6. **Strain the Broth**: Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean pot to remove the solids. Discard the solids.

7. **Serve**: Ladle the hot broth over the noodles in each bowl. Serve with a plate of fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and sliced chili peppers on the side. Diners can customize their bowls by adding herbs, bean sprouts, lime juice, and chili peppers according to their preference. Hoisin sauce and sriracha sauce can also be served on the side for dipping.

8. **Enjoy**: Serve the Sheephead Pho piping hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this hearty Vietnamese soup!

Adjust the ingredients accordingly if you're cooking for a larger or smaller group.