ginger and spice, and for up to 24 hours. And then served with beef, chicken, pork, rice noodles, the works, on the side. I can certainly see why people don't like it. But to say it's just soup is hilarious. It's the most complex broth made, and then it's full of side items such and meat and rice noodles. You can put it together how you wish. And what's amazing is no two kitchens make the same broth. So you can go to several vietnamese places and experience something totally new. I wouldn't even think to call it soup .