1 piece fresh gingerroot (about 3 ounces), left whole, skin on
2 cinnamon sticks (2.5 inches each)
3 whole star anise
2 large cardamom pods
1 teaspoon coriander seeds
4-1/2 teaspoons salt
1-1/2 teaspoons MSG, optional
1 teaspoon rock sugar or granulated sugar
TO SERVE:
28 ounces Banh Pho rice noodles
Table-side Garnishes (Northern Style): Prepared Dam Toi, 1 large onion halved and sliced into strips soaked in ice water, 4 wedged medium limes, 3 sliced green onions, 8 minced Thai chiles
Table-side Garnishes (Southern Style): Fresh mung bean sprouts, hoisin sauce, sriracha, lime wedges, Thai chiles and chopped fresh Thai basil, coriander, mint and Culantro (sawtooth herb/Ngo om)