Pho Recipe

Indulge in the rich, aromatic flavors of pho, a beloved Vietnamese noodle soup that warms the soul. This recipe guides you through making a traditional pho broth, flavorful noodles, and fresh garnishes that come together to create a delightful culinary experience. Perfect for any season, pho is a dish that brings comfort and satisfaction. Follow along to impress family and friends with your cooking skills!

Ingredients

• 500g beef bones
• 200g beef brisket
• 1 onion, halved
• 1 ginger root, halved
• 2 star anise
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 3 cloves
• 1 tbsp coriander seeds
• 200g rice noodles
• Fresh herbs (basil, cilantro)
• Bean sprouts
• Lime wedges
• Sliced chili
• Fish sauce, to taste

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves approximately 4 people. Preparation time is about 30 minutes, followed by a cooking time of 2 hours to develop a rich broth.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 bowl) contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 45g
– Fat: 10g
This is based on one serving for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Roast the beef bones and onion in a preheated oven at 200°C for 30 minutes.
2. In a large pot, combine the roasted bones, ginger, and water (about 3 liters).
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 hours, skimming any foam.
4. Add star anise, cinnamon, cloves, and coriander seeds to the broth.
5. Continue simmering for another 30 minutes, then strain the broth.
6. Season the broth with fish sauce and adjust to taste.
7. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
8. Slice the beef brisket thinly and add to the hot broth to cook slightly.
9. In bowls, divide the noodles and pour hot broth over them.
10. Garnish with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and chili slices.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute beef bones with chicken bones for a lighter version. Additionally, vegetarian pho can be made using vegetable broth and tofu instead of meat, maintaining the comforting essence of the dish.

Serving and Pairings

Pho is best served hot with fresh herbs on the side. It pairs well with a light salad or spring rolls. For a beverage, try pairing with a light beer or iced tea to balance the flavors.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover pho broth and noodles separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the broth on the stove and add fresh noodles to serve. Broth can be frozen for longer storage.

Cooking Mistakes

• Not skimming the broth can result in a cloudy soup.
• Using low-quality bones affects the richness of the broth.
• Skipping the roasting step diminishes the flavor.
• Overcooking the noodles can make them mushy.
• Not seasoning the broth properly can lead to bland soup.

Helpful Tips

• Use a fine mesh strainer to achieve a clear broth.
• Let the broth sit overnight for enhanced flavors.
• Experiment with different herbs for unique flavors.
• Always serve pho hot for the best experience.
• Prepare garnishes ahead of time for a quick serving.

FAQs

What type of meat can I use for pho?

You can use various meats for pho, including beef brisket, flank steak, or even chicken. Each will provide a different flavor and texture, so choose based on your preference.

Can I make pho vegetarian?

Absolutely! Use vegetable broth and add tofu or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version that retains the essence of pho.

How long does pho broth last?

Pho broth can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for several months. Just be sure to cool it completely before storing.

Is pho healthy?

Pho can be a healthy option, especially if you control the amount of noodles and opt for lean meats. It’s also packed with herbs and fresh vegetables.

Can I add more spices to pho?

Yes, feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding more star anise or a dash of chili can enhance the flavor profile.

Conclusion

Pho is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors, fresh ingredients, and aromatic spices. Whether enjoyed on a chilly day or as a nourishing meal, this pho recipe will surely impress and satisfy. Embrace the art of making pho, and savor the tastes of Vietnam in your home.

Pho Recipe

A rich and aromatic Vietnamese noodle soup made with flavorful broth, rice noodles, and fresh herbs, perfect for any occasion.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Vietnamese

Keyword: pho, vietnamese soup, noodle soup, comfort food

Prep Time: 30 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 2 hours hours

Total Time: 2 hours hours 30 minutes minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

• 500 g beef bones
• 200 g beef brisket
• 1 onion halved
• 1 ginger root halved
• 2 star anise
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 3 cloves
• 1 tbsp coriander seeds
• 200 g rice noodles
• Fresh herbs basil, cilantro
• Bean sprouts
• Lime wedges
• Sliced chili
• Fish sauce to taste

Instructions

• Roast the beef bones and onion in a preheated oven at 200°C for 30 minutes.
• In a large pot, combine the roasted bones, ginger, and water (about 3 liters).
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 hours, skimming any foam.
• Add star anise, cinnamon, cloves, and coriander seeds to the broth.
• Continue simmering for another 30 minutes, then strain the broth.
• Season the broth with fish sauce and adjust to taste.
• Cook rice noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
• Slice the beef brisket thinly and add to the hot broth to cook slightly.
• In bowls, divide the noodles and pour hot broth over them.
• Garnish with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and chili slices.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcal | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 10g | Fiber: 2g