Hearty Pho: Vietnamese Noodle Soup with Aromatic Herbs and Tender Beef

Pho is a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup known for its fragrant broth, tender slices of beef, and aromatic herbs. This warm and comforting dish is perfect for any meal and offers a burst of flavors that are both satisfying and invigorating. The combination of spices, fresh herbs, and savory ingredients makes Pho a favorite among many.

Ingredients:
Broth:
– 4 cups beef broth
– 4 cups water
– 1 large onion, halved
– 2-inch piece of ginger, sliced
– 4 star anise pods
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 4 cloves
– 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt to taste

Noodles and Toppings:
– 8 oz rice noodles (Pho noodles)
– 1/2 pound thinly sliced beef sirloin or flank steak
– 2 cups bean sprouts
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
– 1 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 lime, cut into wedges
– 2-3 green onions, thinly sliced
– 1-2 red chili peppers, thinly sliced
– Hoisin sauce and Sriracha sauce for serving (optional)

Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broth:
– In a large pot, combine the beef broth and water. Add the onion and ginger. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer.
– Toast the star anise, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and coriander seeds in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant (about 2-3 minutes). Add to the simmering broth.
– Add fish sauce, sugar, and a pinch of salt to the broth mixture. Cover and simmer for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.

2. Prepare the Noodles:
– While the broth is simmering, cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

3. Prepare the Toppings:
– Arrange the bean sprouts, basil, cilantro, mint, lime wedges, green onions, and chili peppers on a serving platter.

4. Assemble the Pho:
– Thinly slice the beef sirloin or flank steak against the grain. To make slicing easier, you can partially freeze the meat beforehand.
– Strain the broth to remove the solids and return the liquid to the pot. Bring the broth back to a gentle simmer and adjust seasoning if necessary.
– Divide the cooked noodles into serving bowls. Top each bowl with a handful of raw beef slices.
– Ladle the hot broth over the beef and noodles. The heat from the broth will cook the beef slices to tender perfection.

5. Serve:
– Serve the Pho immediately with the prepared toppings on the side. Allow everyone to add their preferred amount of herbs, bean sprouts, lime juice, green onions, and chili peppers to their liking. Offer Hoisin sauce and Sriracha sauce for additional flavor.

Enjoy your homemade Pho, a delightful Vietnamese noodle soup that’s sure to warm your heart and soul!