Beef Pho is a classic Vietnamese noodle soup known for its fragrant broth and hearty ingredients. This easy version simplifies the traditional recipe while still delivering the authentic flavors you love.
Ingredients
For the Broth:
- 2 lbs beef bones (such as knucklebones or marrow bones)
- 1 onion, halved
- 4-inch piece of ginger, halved lengthwise
- 2 star anise
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 cloves
- 1 cardamom pod
- 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
- 6 cups water
- 4 cups beef stock
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
For the Pho:
- 1/2 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 8 oz rice noodles
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Fresh basil leaves
- Bean sprouts
- Lime wedges
- Sliced green onions
- Sliced chili peppers (optional)
Directions
- Char the onion and ginger either by broiling them in the oven or charring them over an open flame on the stove. This adds depth to the broth’s flavor.
- In a large pot, bring the water to a boil. Add the beef bones and boil vigorously for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, remove the bones and discard the water to get rid of impurities.
- Clean the pot and return the parboiled bones to it. Add the charred onion and ginger, star anise, cinnamon sticks, cloves, cardamom, coriander seeds, beef stock, and 6 cups of water.
- Bring the broth to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 2 hours. Skim any foam or fat that rises to the top.
- Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve and return it to the pot. Season with fish sauce, salt, and sugar (if using).
- Prepare the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and divide them among serving bowls.
- Arrange thin slices of raw beef sirloin on top of the noodles. The heat from the broth will cook the beef.
- Pour the hot broth over the beef and noodles in each bowl.
- Serve with fresh cilantro, basil leaves, bean sprouts, lime wedges, sliced green onions, and sliced chili peppers on the side for garnishing according to individual tastes.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 300-350
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 25g
Prep and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings
- Serves: 4
This Easy Beef Pho recipe brings the complex and aromatic flavors of traditional Vietnamese pho to your kitchen with a simpler preparation method. Enjoy the delicious combination of tender beef, fragrant spices, and rice noodles in a savory broth. Perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal!
