Are you craving a hot and savory soup that’s packed with flavor and comfort? Look no further than the classic Vietnamese beef and noodle soup, commonly known as pho!

Originating in Northern Vietnam, this beloved dish has become a staple in Vietnamese cuisine and can be found in restaurants around the world. With its rich broth, tender slices of beef, and silky rice noodles, it’s easy to see why pho is such a beloved dish.

But why settle for just any bowl of pho when you can create an authentic and delicious version right in your own home? In this recipe article, I’ll guide you through how to make the perfect bowl of Vietnamese beef noodle soup that will transport your taste buds straight to the streets of Hanoi.

Don’t be intimidated by the long list of ingredients or the thought of making your own broth; with a bit of patience and some attention to detail, you can easily recreate this classic dish, one that is sure to impress your family and friends. So let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ladies and gentlemen, I am here today to convince you that this Vietnamese Beef and Noodle Soup Recipe (Pho) is undoubtedly the most delightful culinary creation you will ever taste. You might think I’m just exaggerating, but wait until you hear what’s inside this heavenly bowl.

Are you a fan of savory and spicy flavors? Do you like tender chunks of beef swimming in perfectly cooked rice noodles? How about the freshness of coriander leaves and mint combined with pungent garlic cloves and ginger? This recipe has it all!

What really sets this bowl of Vietnamese Pho apart from other soups is the flavorful broth that has been simmered with aromatic ingredients such as cardamom pod, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, ginger, and more. These elements blend together to create a warm and comforting flavor that is sure to delight your senses.

This dish brings together perfectly balanced flavors; sweet from caster sugar, sourness from lime wedge, saltiness from fish sauce, spiciness from garlic clove and ginger, rich umami from beef slices inside the soup bo broth. Plus, the variety of herbs adds a touch of freshness and bright pop to balance it all out.

One important thing to note is that this Vietnamese noodle soup dish isn’t just a meal – it’s an experience. With every spoonful of broth rice noodles and beef slices gently melting in your mouth, you’ll be transported to Vietnam’s bustling streets filled wth yummy street food stalls where you can feel its authentic culture. It’s deliciously satisfying without being too heavy or greasy.

But don’t take my word for it; try it yourself! Trust me; once you savor every detail of this authentic Vietnamese pho recipe, it will become one of your go-to comfort foods.

Ingredient List

A steaming bowl of comfort in every spoonful.

The key to making the perfect bowl of Vietnamese Beef and Noodle Soup (Pho) is to use fresh, high-quality ingredients. The flavor of Pho broth comes from a fragrant combination of spices including cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, cloves, and star anise. For the beef slices, you can use round-eye or sirloin steak that has been sliced into thin pieces. Rice noodles are used for this recipe but feel free to use any other kind of noodle if desired. You will also need fish sauce, caster sugar, onions ginger, garlic cloves, and fresh ginger. Don’t forget the toppings! Bean sprouts, mint, coriander leaves, and spring onion are must-haves when serving Pho. Lastly, serve with a lime wedge on the side for a bit of freshness. Below is the complete list of ingredients you will need:

2 cinnamon sticks
3 cardamom pods
3 cloves
2-star anise
1lb filet of beef or thinly sliced sirloin
8 oz rice noodles
1/4 cup fish sauce
1/4 cup caster sugar
1 onion roughly chopped
2-inch piece ginger sliced
2 garlic cloves roughly chopped
Toppings: bean sprouts, mint, coriander leaves, spring onions
Lime wedges

The Recipe How-To

Now it’s time to dive into the heart of this Vietnamese beef and noodle soup (pho) recipe. With star anise, cinnamon sticks, and cardamom pods adding a warming spice to the broth, you’ll be hooked from the first sip. So, let’s get started!

Ingredients

1.5kg beef bones, 1 kg oxtail, 500 g brisket
5 star anise
2 cinnamon sticks
3 cardamom pods
6 cloves garlic, halved
70g caster sugar
50ml fish sauce
2 onions
5cm piece of ginger
500g dried rice noodles
1 bunch coriander leaves
1 bunch mint
2 spring onions

Preparation

Begin by blanching the beef bones in boiling water for 10 minutes to remove impurities. Drain and rinse the bones, then roast them in the oven at 200℃ for about 45 minutes until golden brown.

Tip: You can also buy pre-cooked or instant pho broth to save time.

Next, use a large pot to boil 8 liters of water. Add the roasted beef bones, brisket, oxtail, and all the spices – star anise, cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods and cloves, along with halved onions and sliced ginger.

Allow everything to simmer for at least 5 hours (or more!) to allow all those bold flavors to marry together. As the brisket softens and tenderizes along with the oxtail and bones it will add a richness that really makes this dish come together.

Once the broth is ready, strain it through a fine sieve or cheesecloth before reheating it in a pot. Then add in your sliced raw beef which will cook quickly once immersed in the piping hot soup. It should only take about 20 seconds or so before the meat is just cooked but still pink and juicy.

Tip: Thinly slicing the beef allows it to cook evenly, and don’t forget to use a large, sharp knife!

Meanwhile, soak your rice noodles in cold water for at least 15 minutes until they are soft and pliable. Cook them in boiling water according to the package instructions, then divide the noodles between large bowls.

Now it’s time to assemble the soup – this is the fun part! Start by adding beef slices to your bowl. Top off with some bean sprouts, fresh coriander, and chopped spring onions. Ladle the hot broth over these ingredients into each bowl.

Serve piping hot with some lime wedges, extra herbs like fragrant mint leaves on the side (optional), and plenty of additional condiments like slices of chili, hoisin sauce or Sriracha.

*Tip: Fish sauce is an essential ingredient to give pho that distinctive umami-salty-sweet taste. For a vegetarian version, you can always use

Substitutions and Variations

If you’re feeling a little adventurous and want to experiment with different flavors, here are some substitutions and variations that you can try for this delicious Vietnamese Beef and Noodle Soup recipe.

Firstly, the beef slices can be substituted with beef tendon or beef brisket. If you prefer chicken over beef, try using chicken bones to make the broth for Chicken Pho. You can also replace your traditional round eye or filet of beef with beef marrow or bone broth for an authentic taste.

For those who are looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute the beef with tofu or meatless protein. Instead of using classic pho broth, you can use vegetable stock as a base to create rich flavors.

If you are not able to find some ingredients in your local grocery store, options such as cinnamon sticks, cloves, and cardamom pods can be replaced with ground elements of the spices. Likewise, if caster sugar is not available, you can swap it out with regular sugar.

To change up the flavor profile further, fresh ginger can be substituted with dried ginger powder or adding in some smoked paprika into the soup base. Cilantro, mint, and spring onions are all interchangeable when it comes to topping off the dish.

Finally, consider experimenting with spicy or tangy flavors like adding chili flakes or jalapeño peppers to give it a kick of heat or squeeze a lime wedge on top before serving for an acidic finish.

No matter what substitutions are made to this classic Vietnamese noodle soup dish, it is sure to be a hit at any dinner table.

Serving and Pairing

A burst of fresh herbs and spices in every bite.

When it comes to serving and pairing Vietnamese Beef and Noodle Soup (Pho), it’s all about the fresh herbs, textures and flavors. The steaming hot bowl of pho is traditionally served with a variety of accompaniments that each diner can add to their own bowl to customize their dish.

Start by adding some lime wedges to the table, a squeeze of lime will add a pop of tangy flavor that balances out the richness of the broth. Next, gather some aromatic cilantro leaves, mint leaves, and thinly sliced spring onions. These fresh herbs will brighten up the flavor profile and add a burst of freshness to each spoonful.

For added texture, serve your pho with a handful of crisp bean sprouts and finely sliced hot red chili pepper which deliver a subtle heat kick. Don’t be shy with garlic clove; finely chop them into small bits, then sprinkle generously on top.

As for pairing, classic Vietnamese iced coffee served with condensed milk is an excellent complement to the richness of the broth. If you prefer something non-caffeinated, opt for jasmine tea or cold coconut water.

Pairing pho with some light summer rolls filled with shrimp, pork or tofu set amidst fresh greens like lettuce or garlicky stir-fried vegetables delivers an uncomplicated but dreamy experience.

Vietnamese Beef and Noodle Soup (Pho) is not only filling and satisfying but flexible enough that it can be served as a meal any time of day. Try serving it during lunch or dinner for friends and family at your next gathering – I guarantee they’ll all be requesting seconds!

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

A deliciously hearty meal that warms the soul and satisfies the appetite.

Vietnamese Beef and Noodle Soup, or Pho, can be a time-consuming recipe to make. This makes it perfect for preparing in advance, making it an excellent option for those with a busy schedule. The broth can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer until ready to use.

To store the broth properly, allow it to cool to room temperature before placing it into an airtight container. The broth will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

When reheating the broth, there are a few things you should keep in mind. It is best to reheat the broth slowly over low heat, stirring occasionally until it reaches the desired temperature. Be sure not to boil the broth as it may change its flavor and consistency.

If freezing your broth, be sure to defrost it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Once defrosted, you can heat the broth on the stovetop or even in a microwave-safe bowl.

It is recommended that you cook your noodles fresh when serving your Pho dish. Simply boil them separately according to their package instructions before adding them into your hot soup broth along with garnishes like sliced beef and crisp bean sprouts.

By making ahead and storing your Pho broth properly and following these recommended reheating tips, you can always have delicious Vietnamese beef noodle soup at home without having to spend hours in the kitchen every time you crave this authentic Vietnamese dish.

Tips for Perfect Results

The ultimate comfort food on a rainy day.

To achieve the perfect bowl of Vietnamese beef and noodle soup, also known as pho, attention to detail is important. Here are some tips to help you create an authentic and delicious Vietnamese noodle soup dish:

1. Use High-Quality Beef

The quality of meat used in this dish can make a difference. Using a filet of beef or top round eye sliced thinly will give the best results. For an even richer flavor and texture, add some beef tendon or brisket to the broth.

2. Make Your Own Broth

The key to an authentic pho broth is simmering a variety of herbs and spices like star anise, cinnamon sticks, cloves, cardamom pods, garlic, and ginger in bone broth for several hours on low heat. Making your own broth will give your soup a rich depth of flavor that cannot be replicated with store-bought options.

3. Don’t Skimp on Herbs and Aromatics

Fresh herbs like mint and coriander leaves, sliced onions, spring onions, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and fish sauce are essential for adding the complex flavors that make up the base of a good pho.

4. Use Rice Noodles

Rice noodles are an essential component of this dish. It’s important not to overcook them for perfect texture. Follow package directions carefully or just blanch them with hot water before serving in your soup bowl.

5. Add the Secret Ingredient – Caster Sugar

A little bit of caster sugar (around 1-2 tablespoons) can really enhance the flavor profile of your beef pho by balancing out the savory flavors from the broth and seasoning.

6. Get Creative with Your Toppings

While traditional pho toppings include herbs and bean sprouts, there’s no harm in getting creative by adding other veggies like broccoli or carrots to add some color to your bowl of delicious Vietnamese noodle soup.

By following these simple tips, you’ll be sure to create a delicious, authentic Vietnamese beef noodle soup that will delight your taste buds.

FAQ

Before concluding this recipe article, let me take you through some frequently asked questions about making Vietnamese Beef and Noodle Soup. These questions will help you to avoid common mistakes and ensure that your pho comes out perfectly every time. So, keep reading to learn more about the secrets of making authentic Vietnamese cuisine!

What is the secret ingredient in pho broth?

Dried peanut worms, also known as sa sung, have been known to be the key ingredient that adds an extraordinary flavor to pho.

What gives pho broth its flavor?

When it comes to making a delicious pho broth, don’t forget about the essential spices. Five key spices are a must-have for this recipe – star anise, whole cloves, cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, and coriander seeds. For an added boost of flavor, I suggest using whole spices instead of pre-ground options. But before incorporating them into the broth, it’s important to briefly toast the spices to extract their full potential.

Is beef noodle soup same as pho?

Vietnamese cuisine boasts of two famous noodle dishes – Bò Kho, a beef stew commonly served with noodles or bread, and Pho, a flavorful soup made with rice noodles known as bánh phở, herbs, and meat such as beef (phở bò) or chicken (phở gà).

What meat is used in beef pho?

For a delicious and speedy beef pho, there are a few cuts of beef that I highly recommend. These include sirloin steak, round eye, and London broil. Among them, my personal favorite is round eye. It offers a rich, meaty taste that pairs well with the other ingredients in this dish. Additionally, this cut is less fatty than sirloin, which makes it a healthier option. Today, I’ll be showing you how to make a savory beef pho using round eye beef.

Is Vietnamese noodle soup the same as pho?

Two popular noodle soup dishes, pho and ramen, have distinct origins and ingredients. Pho originated in the northern region of Vietnam and was influenced by the Chinese immigrants and French colonists, while ramen is a Japanese creation.

Is pho broth the same as beef broth?

When it comes to pho broth, the spices and herbs used are what give it its unique and distinct flavor. These added ingredients play a crucial role in differentiating it from the regular beef bone broth. Although there are many spices used, each one is essential and cannot be overlooked.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, this Vietnamese Beef and Noodle Soup (Pho) recipe is a must-try. With its blend of tangy lime wedges, aromatic spices like cardamom pod, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise, fresh herbs like mint and coriander leaves, and savory beef slices in broth rice noodles, it’s hard not to fall in love with this dish. And let’s not forget the secret ingredient – fish sauce! It adds depth and umami flavor to the dish that will have your taste buds dancing.

This pho recipe is not only easy to make; it’s also versatile. Whether you’re catering for vegetarian guests or prefer chicken instead of beef, this recipe can be tweaked to suit your preferences. You can even make an instant pho by using store-bought broth instead of making your own.

Moreover, serving and pairing are easy with this soup dish. Top your bowl with some bean sprouts and sliced onions ginger, then squeeze a lime wedge over it all for a real Vietnamese experience.

And finally, I can’t stress this enough: don’t underestimate the importance of a good-quality bone broth in making an authentic Vietnamese beef pho. The time and effort invested will be worth it when you savor that delicious bowl of noodle soup.

So go ahead, try out this recipe at home and enjoy a taste of authentic Vietnamese food right from your kitchen!

Master the Art of Cooking Pho with Simple and Easy Steps