A special date night is all about spending time with someone you love. Whether it’s your partner, a close friend, or even just treating yourself, food plays a big role in making the day memorable.
But there’s always that moment of indecision—what do you pair with your meal to make it even better? If you’ve chosen traditional beef pho, you’ve already made a great choice. But what should you have on the side? What drink complements it best? How can you make this meal feel even more special?
Pairing food isn’t always easy. Some combinations work well together, while others don’t. That’s why we’ve put together the perfect guide to help you decide what to pair with beef pho for the ultimate dining experience.
Why Pairings Matter
A hearty, warming dish is beef pho. It contains tender beef slices, fresh herbs, and a thick broth. However, you need the right sides and beverages to make your dinner even more delicious. Balance is more important when pairing foods than just taste. The right combination can bring out the best flavours, making every bite more enjoyable.
If you’ve ever eaten pho and thought, “Something is missing,” then this guide is for you. What to pair with beef pho is all about enhancing the experience so that every spoonful feels just right.
The Best Side Dishes for Beef Pho
1. Spring Rolls
Crispy, light, and filled with fresh ingredients, spring rolls make an excellent pairing. They offer a nice contrast to the warm broth of pho. Whether you go for fresh summer rolls with shrimp or crispy fried ones with minced pork, both work well. Dip them in peanut sauce or fish sauce for extra flavour.
2. Vietnamese Baguette (Bánh Mì)
A baguette might not seem like an obvious choice, but it’s a great side for pho. The crusty bread soaks up the broth, making each bite flavorful. A simple baguette with butter works, but if you want something extra, go for a Bánh Mì with grilled chicken or beef. The crunch of the bread and the rich flavours of the broth create a perfect balance.
3. Grilled Meat Skewers (Thịt Xiên Nướng)
The smoky flavour that Thịt Xiên Nướng imparts complements the rich flavours of pho. The tender noodles and liquid provide a pleasing contrast to the juicy meat and charred edges. Skewers are also an excellent choice for a special occasion dinner because they are easy to share.
4. Vietnamese Salad
The thick texture of pho can be balanced with a crisp vietnamese alad of pickled veggies, fresh greens, meat of your choice, and a tangy dressing. It refreshes your taste buds and completes the meal. A simple beef salad or a seafood salad dressed with vinegar are great choices.
5. Kimchi
The spicy, tangy, and slightly sour flavors of kimchi make it an ideal complement to pho. It completes the flavorful soup and fresh herbs with a strong kick that makes each flavor more thrilling. Additionally, the fermented nature of kimchi gives the dish a delicious crunch and texture.
The Best Drinks to Pair with Beef Pho
Pairing the right drink is just as important as choosing the right side dish. Some drinks bring out the flavours in the broth, while others offer a refreshing contrast.
1. Vietnamese Iced Coffee (Cà phê Sữa đá)
If you love coffee, this is a great choice. The strong, slightly sweet taste of Cà phê Sữa đá balances the savoury flavours of pho. The contrast between hot soup and cold coffee makes the meal more enjoyable.
2. Jasmine Tea (Trà lài Việt)
A warm, light tea like Trà lài Việt complements pho well. It cleanses your palate and makes sure you can fully enjoy each bite. Plus, tea is perfect for a relaxed and cosy meal.
3. Winter Melon Tea (Trà bí đao)
This refreshing and slightly sweet herbal tea pairs well with the deep flavours of pho. It helps cleanse the palate and provides a cooling effect, making it a great companion for a hot bowl of pho.
4. Cinnamon Orange Tea (Trà cam quê)
A warming and fragrant tea, cinnamon orange tea offers a hint of spice and citrus that complement the rich broth. The natural sweetness from the cinnamon and the tang from the orange makes it a delightful choice.
5. Vietnamese Pandan Tea (Trà sâm dứa Việt)
This aromatic herbal tea has a unique, slightly floral and vanilla-like flavour. Its lightness balances out the savoury notes of pho, making it an excellent pairing for a relaxed meal.
Dessert Ideas to End Your Pho Meal
After a delicious bowl of beef pho, a light dessert can be the perfect ending. Here are some great options:
1. Vietnamese Agar Agar (Râu câu)
This jelly-like dessert is made from seaweed-based agar, offering a light and refreshing end to your meal. It comes in various flavours like coconut, pandan, or coffee, adding a subtle sweetness without overpowering the palate.
2. Mango Sticky Rice
Although not Vietnamese, this dessert is a popular choice. The sweetness of the mango and the creamy coconut rice create a nice contrast to the savoury meal.
3. Vietnamese Crème Caramel (Bánh Flan)
A smooth and creamy caramel flan, this dessert is lightly sweet with a hint of bitterness from the caramelized sugar. It pairs perfectly with the warm and rich flavours of pho, making for a satisfying end to your meal.
Creating the Perfect Date Night Pho Meal
Now that you know what to pair with beef pho, it’s time to put together the perfect meal. Here’s a simple plan for a dinner date with pho:
- Start with an appetiser: Spring rolls or a small salad.
- Enjoy your beef pho: With a side of banh mi or grilled skewers.
- Pair with a great drink: Jasmine tea or tamarind juice for balance.
- Finish with dessert: A small bowl of Che Ba Mau or pandan jelly.
This meal is simple, satisfying, and easy to prepare. Plus, it allows you to focus on enjoying the moment rather than spending too much time in the kitchen.
Final Thoughts
Choosing what to pair with beef pho doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you go for crispy spring rolls, a warm baguette, or a refreshing tea, the right pairing makes the meal more enjoyable.
So, if you’re planning a special dinner, keep it simple but thoughtful. Focus on flavours that balance each other, and most importantly, enjoy the experience with someone you love.
