Authentic Vietnamese Pho Recipe: How to Make Pho at Home

Pho, Vietnam's most iconic dish, is a flavorful and aromatic noodle soup that has captured the hearts of food lovers worldwide. Originating in northern Vietnam, this comforting bowl of goodness is made with fragrant broth, tender slices of meat, fresh herbs, and silky rice noodles. Follow this step-by-step recipe to create an authentic bowl of pho right in your kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Broth:

• 2.5 lbs beef bones (preferably marrow or knuckle bones)
• 1 lb beef brisket or flank
• 1 large onion (halved)
• 1 piece of ginger (about 4 inches, halved lengthwise)
• 5-6 star anise pods
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 4-5 cloves
• 1 tbsp coriander seeds
• 2 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tbsp sugar (rock sugar is preferred)
• 12 cups water
• Salt to taste

For the Noodles and Garnish:

• 1 lb rice noodles (bánh phở)
• 1 lb thinly sliced raw beef (sirloin or eye of round)
• Fresh bean sprouts
• Fresh herbs (cilantro, Thai basil, and mint)
• 1 lime (cut into wedges)
• 1-2 chili peppers (sliced)
• Hoisin sauce and Sriracha (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Broth:

1. Blanch the Bones: Place the beef bones in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Let it boil for 5 minutes to remove impurities. Discard the water and rinse the bones under cold water.
2. Char the Onion and Ginger: Use tongs to char the onion and ginger directly over an open flame or in a hot skillet until blackened. This adds a smoky depth to the broth.
3. Toast the Spices: In a dry pan, toast the star anise, cinnamon, cloves, and coriander seeds until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).

2. Simmer the Broth:

1. Add the blanched bones, brisket, charred onion, ginger, and toasted spices to a large pot.
2. Pour in 12 cups of water and bring to a gentle boil.
3. Skim off any scum that rises to the surface, then reduce the heat to low.
4. Add fish sauce, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Simmer for 3-4 hours, occasionally skimming the surface.
5. After 1.5 hours, remove the brisket, slice it thinly, and set it aside.

3. Prepare the Noodles:

1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking.

4. Assemble the Pho:

1. Place a handful of cooked noodles into a bowl.
2. Add the sliced brisket and raw beef slices on top.
3. Ladle the hot broth over the beef, cooking the raw slices instantly.

5. Garnish and Serve:

1. Top with fresh bean sprouts, Thai basil, mint, and cilantro.
2. Serve with lime wedges, sliced chili peppers, and optional hoisin or Sriracha sauce.

Tips for the Perfect Pho:

• Use Quality Ingredients: The quality of bones and fresh herbs directly impacts the flavor.
• Be Patient: Let the broth simmer for hours to develop rich flavors.
• Customize It: Add more herbs, spices, or sauces based on your taste preferences.

Why Pho is a Global Favorite

Pho is more than just a meal; it’s a cultural experience. Its balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors combined with aromatic herbs and fresh toppings makes it unique. This versatile dish can be enjoyed as breakfast, lunch, or dinner and is perfect for cold days or when you need a comforting pick-me-up.

Make this authentic Vietnamese pho recipe today and bring the taste of Vietnam to your kitchen!

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