When you want to go to an Asian restaurant, you might see either ramen or pho on the menu, or sometimes both. While both of these are Asian soups, they're very different in flavor profile, ingredients, and style. Understanding the similarities and differences between the two can help you decide what you're hungry for. Keep reading to learn more about each of these Asian dishes and what sets them apart.

Ramen

Ramen is a popular Japanese soup that was originally created in China and then became popularized in Japan. When you order ramen, you can often choose the type of broth that you want, such as miso, shoyu (soy sauce), shio (salt), or tonkotsu (pork bone). At many restaurants, you can also choose the firmness of the noodles, the broth thickness, and the amount of oil. Popular toppings include roasted pork, a hard or soft boiled egg, seaweed, sprouts, corn, and narutomaki. Ramen tends to have many more toppings than pho, and it prioritizes umami flavors. 

Pho

Pho (pronounced “fuh”) is a Vietnamese soup. However, it also originated in China and then was popularized in Vietnam. It is made with chicken or beef broth and a type of beef cut. Pho is served with rice noodles instead of the wheat noodles in ramen. The soup is typically accompanied with a side of fresh herbs, lime, and crunchy bean sprouts that you can add to your soup for texture and flavor. 

If you're looking to enjoy some soup at an Asian restaurant, look no further than Pho' Vietnam in Anchorage, AK. They offer the most authentic Vietnamese food in the state. With four locations, you’ll be able to enjoy their amazing menu regardless of where you find yourself in the city. Call (907) 929-9938 to speak with a team member, or visit them online to learn more about their menu.