Describe a dish or meal that you really like.

One dish I really adore is a traditional Vietnamese dish called phở bò, which is basically beef noodle soup, but that description doesn’t really do it justice. It’s more like a comforting hug in a bowl, and it’s something I never get tired of eating.

In terms of ingredients, it starts with a clear, aromatic broth made from beef bones, onions, ginger, and a mix of spices like star anise, cinnamon and cloves. Then you’ve got flat rice noodles, thin slices of beef, and a generous handful of fresh herbs such as coriander and Thai basil. On the side, there are usually bean sprouts, lime wedges, and fresh chilli so you can adjust the flavour to your own taste, which I absolutely love.

I usually eat phở in the morning or at lunchtime. In Vietnam it’s really common to have it for breakfast, and I’ve kind of adopted that habit. When I’m busy, I grab it from a little street stall before work, and on weekends I might go to a slightly nicer restaurant and take my time over a steaming bowl.

The reason I like this dish so much is a combination of the taste, the atmosphere, and the memories attached to it. The flavour is incredibly balanced – it’s light but satisfying, and the herbs make it taste so fresh and vibrant. On top of that, it reminds me of visiting my Vietnamese friend’s family, who introduced me to it and showed me how to eat it “properly”. So for me, it’s not just tasty food; it’s also a reminder of friendship, hospitality, and a different way of life.