Vietnamese Winter Noodle Soup: A Warm Bowl of Comfort

This Vietnamese Winter Noodle Soup, also known as “Pho,” is a hearty and fragrant dish that is perfect for chilly days. Made with rice noodles, a flavorful broth, and tender slices of beef, this soup is garnished with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing finish. It’s a dish that brings comfort and warmth, a true Vietnamese classic that will delight your taste buds.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef bones (preferably marrow and knuckle bones)
– 1 lb beef brisket
– 1 large onion, cut in half
– 3-inch piece of ginger, cut in half lengthwise
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 4 star anise
– 4 cloves
– 1 tsp coriander seeds
– 1 tbsp rock sugar (or brown sugar)
– 1 tbsp fish sauce
– 8 cups water
– 8 oz dried rice noodles
– 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
– Fresh herbs (cilantro, Thai basil, mint)
– 2 cups bean sprouts
– 2-3 limes, cut into wedges
– 1 fresh chili, thinly sliced (optional)
– Hoisin sauce and Sriracha (for serving)

Instructions:
Broth Preparation###

1. Char the onion and ginger: Place the onion and ginger on a baking sheet and broil them in the oven on high for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are slightly charred.

2. Prepare the bones and brisket: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the beef bones and brisket. Boil for about 5 minutes to remove impurities. Remove the bones and brisket from the pot, rinse them under cold water, and set aside. Discard the water and clean the pot.

3. Make the broth: In the same pot, add the charred onion, ginger, cinnamon sticks, star anise, cloves, and coriander seeds. Place the bones and brisket back into the pot and add 8 cups of water. Add rock sugar and fish sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for at least 2-3 hours. Skim any impurities from the surface occasionally.

4. Remove the brisket: After simmering, remove the brisket and set it aside to cool. Once cooled, slice the brisket thinly and set it aside.

Noodle and Meat Preparation###

5. Cook the rice noodles: Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

6. Prepare the garnishes: Wash and prepare the fresh herbs. Arrange the bean sprouts, lime wedges, and sliced chili on a serving plate.

Assemble the Dish###

7. Serve the Pho: Place a serving of cooked rice noodles into each bowl. Top with slices of brisket and raw beef sirloin.

8. Ladle the broth: Bring the broth back to a vigorous boil. Ladle the hot broth over the noodles and meat in each bowl, cooking the raw beef instantly in the hot broth.

9. Final touches: Garnish with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and sliced chili. Serve immediately with hoisin sauce and Sriracha on the side for additional seasoning.

Enjoy your warm and comforting bowl of Vietnamese Winter Noodle Soup, a delightful way to embrace the winter season!