How to make Vietnamese beef noodle soup

Vietnamese Beef Noodle Soup, also known as "Pho," is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines tender beef, aromatic broth, and rice noodles. Here's a simple recipe to help you recreate this classic Vietnamese delicacy at home

Ingredients

(Vietnamese beef noodle soup)

For the broth

▪️ 2 kg beef bones (marrow or knuckle bones)

▪️ 500g beef brisket or beef chuck, sliced into thin pieces

▪️ 1 large onion, peeled and halved

▪️ 5-6 slices of ginger

▪️ 3-4 cloves of garlic, crushed

▪️ 1 cinnamon stick

▪️ 3 star anise

▪️ 3-4 cardamom pods

▪️ 1 tablespoon coriander seeds

▪️ 1 tablespoon fennel seeds

▪️ 1 tablespoon sugar

▪️ 2 tablespoons fish sauce

▪️ Salt, to taste

For the noodle soup

▪️ 400g dried rice noodles (medium thickness)

▪️ 500g beef sirloin, sliced into thin pieces

▪️ Fresh herbs: Thai basil, cilantro, mint

▪️ Bean sprouts

▪️ Lime wedges

▪️ Chili peppers, sliced (optional)

▪️ Hoisin sauce and Sriracha sauce (optional)

Instructions

1. Start by preparing the broth. Place the beef bones in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Let it boil for about 5 minutes to remove any impurities. Drain the bones and rinse them under cold water.

2. In the same pot, add the beef bones, beef brisket or chuck, onion, ginger, garlic, cinnamon stick, star anise, cardamom pods, coriander seeds, and fennel seeds. Fill the pot with water, enough to cover all the ingredients.

3. Bring the pot to a boil over high heat. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface. Reduce the heat to low and let the broth simmer for at least 3-4 hours, or even longer for a richer flavor. Stir occasionally and add more water if needed to maintain the desired level of broth.

4. After simmering, remove the beef bones and brisket or chuck from the pot. Allow them to cool slightly before slicing the beef into thin pieces. Set aside.

5. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any solids. Return the strained broth to the pot and season with sugar, fish sauce, and salt to taste. Keep the broth warm over low heat.

6. Prepare the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Usually, you will need to soak them in hot water for a few minutes until they are soft and cooked through. Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to prevent them from sticking together.

7. To serve, divide the cooked rice noodles into individual bowls. Top with the sliced beef, bean sprouts, and fresh herbs such as Thai basil, cilantro, and mint. Squeeze lime juice over the bowl and add chili peppers if desired.

8. Ladle the hot beef broth into each bowl, ensuring that it covers the noodles and toppings. Allow the broth to slightly cook the beef slices.

9. Serve the Vietnamese beef noodle soup hot and provide additional garnishes such as lime wedges, chili peppers, hoisin sauce, and Sriracha sauce on the side. Let each person customize their soup to their taste.

Watch the Video

(Video Tutorial: How to Make Vietnamese Beef Noodle Soup)

In summary, mastering the art of making Vietnamese Beef Noodle Soup through our video tutorial allows you to enjoy the rich and comforting flavors of this classic dish from the convenience of your own kitchen. With tender beef, fragrant herbs, and satisfying rice noodles immersed in a flavorful broth, it's a culinary experience that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. So, follow the tutorial, savor each spoonful, and immerse yourself in the authentic taste of Vietnam.