Beef Pho, a beloved Vietnamese noodle soup, is known for its deeply flavorful broth, tender slices of beef, and aromatic herbs. The slow-simmered broth, infused with spices like star anise, cinnamon, and cloves, forms the heart of this dish, giving it a rich, fragrant flavor. Served with rice noodles, thinly sliced beef, fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and lime wedges, each bowl of pho is customizable to your taste. Whether you enjoy it as a comforting meal on a chilly day or crave its complex flavors year-round, Beef Pho is a satisfying and nourishing dish that brings a taste of Vietnam to your table.
Ingredients
For the broth:
- 2 lbs beef bones (marrow bones or knuckle bones)
- 1 lb beef brisket or chuck roast
- 1 large onion, halved
- 3-inch piece of ginger, halved
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 3 star anise
- 4 cloves
- 1 tbsp coriander seeds
- 8 cups water
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp sugar
- Salt to taste
For the pho:
- 12 oz rice noodles (banh pho)
- 1/2 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- Fresh herbs: cilantro, Thai basil, and mint
- 2 cups bean sprouts
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- 2-3 green onions, sliced
- Sliced chili peppers (optional)
- Hoisin sauce and Sriracha for serving
Instructions
- Char the aromatics: Place the onion and ginger on a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, turning once, until they are charred. Set aside.
- Prepare the broth: In a large pot, bring the beef bones and brisket to a boil in about 8 cups of water. Boil for 10 minutes, then drain and rinse the bones and beef to remove impurities.
- Simmer the broth: Refill the pot with 8 cups of fresh water, and add the charred onion, ginger, cinnamon sticks, star anise, cloves, and coriander seeds. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 3-4 hours, occasionally skimming any foam. After 1 hour, remove the brisket, slice it thinly, and set it aside for serving.
- Season the broth: After simmering, strain the broth to remove the solids. Stir in the fish sauce, sugar, and salt to taste. Keep the broth warm.
- Prepare the noodles: Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Assemble the pho: Divide the cooked noodles between bowls. Top with slices of raw beef sirloin and brisket. Ladle the hot broth over the noodles and beef, which will cook the raw sirloin to perfection.
- Garnish and serve: Serve with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime wedges, green onions, and sliced chili peppers. Add hoisin sauce or Sriracha to taste.
Beef Pho is a deeply flavorful and aromatic soup that brings together the perfect combination of rich broth, tender beef, and fresh herbs, making it an unforgettable dish every time.
