Pho noodle soup is a beloved Vietnamese dish known for its aromatic broth, delicate rice noodles, and tender slices of meat.
Whether enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or a soothing dinner, this flavorful soup is a soul-warming comfort food that brings both satisfaction and nourishment.
Recipe Details:
- Difficulty: Medium
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Serves: 4 people
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef bones (marrow or knuckle bones)
- 1 lb beef brisket or flank steak
- 1 medium onion, halved
- 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, sliced
- 2 star anise
- 3 cloves
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 6 cups water
- 8 oz rice noodles (pho noodles)
- Fresh herbs (basil, cilantro, mint)
- Bean sprouts
- Lime wedges
- Sliced chili (optional)
- Hoisin sauce and Sriracha (optional)
Execution:
- Char the Onion and Ginger: In a dry skillet, char the halved onion and ginger slices until slightly blackened. This enhances the depth of the broth.
- Simmer the Broth: In a large pot, add beef bones, brisket, charred onion, and ginger. Pour in 6 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then lower to a simmer and skim off any foam.
- Add Spices and Seasoning: Toast the star anise, cloves, cinnamon stick, and coriander seeds in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes. Add them to the broth along with fish sauce and salt. Simmer gently for 1.5 hours.
- Cook the Noodles: While the broth simmers, cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Prepare the Meat: Remove the brisket from the broth, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly. Optionally, thinly slice raw beef steak to cook directly in the hot broth when serving.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide noodles among serving bowls. Add brisket and raw beef slices (if using). Pour hot broth over the top to cook the raw beef.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and chilies. Serve with hoisin and Sriracha on the side.
Additional Tips:
- For a clearer broth, parboil the bones for 5 minutes, then rinse before simmering.
- Use a mesh spice bag for easier spice removal.
- Add a dash of sugar or rock sugar for a subtly sweet balance.
- Let the broth sit overnight for deeper flavor.
Health Benefits of Pho Noodle Soup
Pho noodle soup is rich in collagen and minerals from slow-simmered bones, promoting joint and skin health. The lean beef provides protein, while fresh herbs and spices offer antioxidants and aid digestion.
Pho is a balanced meal combining carbs, protein, and nutritious greens.
