Pho

Pho is a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup known for its rich, aromatic broth, silky rice noodles, and fresh herbs. This beloved dish is a symbol of Vietnamese comfort food and is perfect for any time of the day.

Ingredients:

For the Broth:

• 1 kg beef bones (marrow bones or oxtail)

• 1 kg beef brisket or chuck roast

• 1 large onion, halved

• 1 piece fresh ginger (3 inches), halved

• 3-4 liters water

• 3 star anise

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 4 cloves

• 1 teaspoon coriander seeds

• 1 tablespoon fish sauce

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• Salt, to taste

For the Noodles and Toppings:

• 400g dried rice noodles (pho noodles)

• 300g thinly sliced raw beef (sirloin or flank steak)

• Fresh bean sprouts

• Fresh herbs (cilantro, Thai basil, and mint)

• 2 green onions, finely sliced

• 1 lime, cut into wedges

• Sliced chili peppers (optional)

• Hoisin sauce and sriracha, for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bones and Meat:

   • Rinse the beef bones and brisket under cold water.

   • In a large pot, cover the bones and brisket with water and bring to a boil. Boil for 5 minutes, then drain and rinse the bones and meat to remove impurities.

2. Char the Aromatics:

   • Char the onion and ginger halves over an open flame or under a broiler until blackened. This step enhances the broth's flavor.

3. Simmer the Broth:

   • In a large stockpot, add the cleaned bones, brisket, charred onion, and ginger.

   • Toast star anise, cinnamon, cloves, and coriander seeds in a dry pan until fragrant, then add them to the pot.

   • Cover with 3-4 liters of water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook for 4-6 hours, skimming off impurities regularly.

4. Season the Broth:

   • Add fish sauce, sugar, and salt to the broth. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

   • Remove the brisket after about 2 hours, once tender. Thinly slice it and set it aside.

5. Prepare the Noodles:

   • Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and divide them among serving bowls.

6. Assemble the Pho:

   • Top the noodles with sliced brisket and raw beef slices.

   • Ladle the hot broth over the meat, cooking the raw beef instantly.

7. Add Toppings:

   • Garnish with bean sprouts, fresh herbs, green onions, and sliced chilies. Serve with lime wedges, hoisin sauce, and sriracha on the side.

Serving Suggestions:
Pho is best enjoyed fresh and hot, allowing each person to customize their bowl with herbs, lime, and sauces to taste.

Pho is more than just soup—it's an experience of comfort and flavor. Perfect for warming the soul, it’s a dish to be savored slowly with family and friends.