Can I store leftovers in the fridge?

Yes, you can store the broth and turkey separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.

What if I can't find fresh herbs?

While fresh is best for pho, you can substitute dried herbs in a pinch but use them sparingly.

Can I use chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely, chicken is a great substitute for turkey in this recipe.

How spicy is the pickled jalapeño?

The pickling process mellows the heat slightly, but it still has a gentle kick.

Can I prepare the broth in advance?

Yes, the broth's flavors deepen when made a day ahead, just strain and store separately.

Cajun-Influenced Vietnamese Turkey Pho with Pickled Jalapeños

Name: Cajun-Influenced Vietnamese Turkey Pho with Pickled Jalapeños
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Soup
Ingredients: 2 pounds turkey bones; 1 yellow onion, halved and charred; 3-inch piece ginger, sliced and charred; 6 cups chicken stock; 2 tablespoons fish sauce; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 5 star anise pods; 2 cinnamon sticks; 1 tablespoon coriander seeds; 2 jalapeños, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup white vinegar; 1/4 cup water; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 400 grams rice noodles; 2 cups cooked turkey meat, shredded; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; Fresh cilantro leaves; Fresh Thai basil leaves; Bean sprouts; Lime wedges

A Fusion Twist on Traditional Pho

Experience the flavors of Vietnam with a Cajun flair in this aromatic turkey pho accented with spicy pickled jalapeños.

1 h 45 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Broth

2 pounds turkey bones

1 yellow onion, halved and charred

3-inch piece ginger, sliced and charred

6 cups chicken stock

2 tablespoons fish sauce

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

5 star anise pods

2 cinnamon sticks

1 tablespoon coriander seeds

For the Pickled Jalapeños

2 jalapeños, thinly sliced

1/2 cup white vinegar

1/4 cup water

1 tablespoon sugar

1 teaspoon salt

For the Noodles & Turkey

400 grams rice noodles

2 cups cooked turkey meat, shredded

1 tablespoon sesame oil

For the Garnishes

Fresh cilantro leaves

Fresh Thai basil leaves

Bean sprouts

Lime wedges

Preparation

Marinating the Broth Ingredients

Char the onion and ginger

Preheat a dry skillet over medium heat. Char the onion and ginger until slightly blackened.

Combine ingredients

Place turkey bones, charred onion, ginger, chicken stock, fish sauce, Cajun seasoning, star anise, cinnamon, and coriander seeds in a large pot.

Simmer the broth

Bring to a simmer and cook for 1 hour.

Preparing the Pickled Jalapeños

Boil pickling liquid

In a small saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil.

Pickle the jalapeños

Remove from heat and add jalapeño slices. Let sit for 30 minutes.

Store the pickles

Store in an airtight jar for up to two weeks.

Cooking Process

Strain the broth

Strain the broth into a clean pot, discarding the solids.

Prepare the noodles

Cook noodles according to package instructions, then toss with sesame oil to prevent sticking.

Assemble the bowls

Divide noodles and turkey meat into bowls, pour hot broth over the top, and garnish.

Plating & Serving