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Jul 20, 2017 / 14:14

Pho Hanoi among list of world's 50 best foods

Pho Hanoi among top 20 of the world`s 50 best foods according to CNN readers.

Pho Hanoi.
Pho Hanoi.
CNN’s list of the World's 50 best foods stimulated some impassioned debate about the conspicuous lack of French dishes and the merits of ketchup over mayonnaise. CNN threw it open to a vote on a Facebook poll. And now, after more than 35,000 votes, CNN found out, the world's most delicious food is not Massaman curry, as we suggested, but a meaty, spicy, gingery dish from West Sumatra.
Pho Hanoi which made number 20 on the list, is basically a bowl of soft rice noodles in a broth carefully prepared with different herbs and served with beef or chicken, shallots, and chili and lemon to taste. “But it’s greater than the sum of its parts - fragrant, tasty and balanced,” CNN said.
This oft-mispronounced national dish is just broth, fresh rice noodles, a few herbs and usually chicken or beef. But it's greater than the sum of its parts -- fragrant, tasty and balanced, the polar opposite of the moto rider who brought you to the little cafe where you find the best stuff.
While Pho is more of a main dish and a common breakfast choice, Goi cuon, or fresh summer rolls, are a popular snack in the south. Rice paper wrapped around pork, shrimp, herbs and rice vermicelli, and best served after being dunked in sweet and sour fish sauce or a thick peanut dip.
Meanwhile, Rendang of Indonesia which made number one on the list. Reader Kamal F Chaniago showed great foresight when he wrote, “Rendang is the best.” A clear winner with a loyal following, this beefy dish can now rightfully claim the title of “World's Most Delicious Food.”
Beef is slowly simmered with coconut milk and a mixture of lemongrass, galangal, garlic, turmeric, ginger, and chilies, then left to stew for a few hours to create this dish of tender, flavorful bovine goodness.
The Indonesian dish is often served at ceremonial occasions and to honored guests. It's not only delicious but also comes with a simple recipe. If you haven't already, go ahead and take reader Isabela Desita's advice: “Rendang should be the first! It's really nice, you should try!”.