Pho Recipe: A Traditional Vietnamese Delight

Pho is a beloved Vietnamese noodle soup known for its rich, aromatic broth, tender meat, and fresh herbs. This dish has gained worldwide popularity due to its comforting flavors and nutritious ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, making pho at home is a rewarding experience. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the process of preparing an authentic bowl of pho from scratch, ensuring that each step is detailed and easy to follow.

What Is Pho?

Pho (pronounced « fuh ») is a Vietnamese soup consisting of broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat, usually beef (pho bo) or chicken (pho ga). Originating in Northern Vietnam, this dish has evolved into various regional styles, each with unique characteristics. The key to a great pho lies in its broth, which is typically simmered for hours to extract deep, complex flavors. Consequently, patience is essential when preparing this dish. The richness of pho comes from the careful selection of spices, the balance of umami flavors, and the art of slow cooking.

The History and Cultural Significance of Pho

Pho dates back to the late 19th or early 20th century in Vietnam, with influences from both Chinese and French culinary traditions. The use of rice noodles and spices reflects Chinese influence, while the slow-cooked, clear broth resembles French consommé. Over time, pho became a staple dish enjoyed by people of all social classes, evolving with regional adaptations and international variations. During the Vietnam War, pho made its way to different parts of the world, introduced by Vietnamese refugees who brought their culinary heritage with them. Today, pho is more than just a dish—it is a symbol of Vietnamese resilience, culture, and identity.

If you’re a fan of comforting soups, you might also enjoy our Butternut Squash Soup Recipe, which is perfect for chilly days.

Ingredients for Homemade Pho

To make a delicious and authentic pho, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Broth:

• 2 pounds beef bones (marrow bones or oxtail)
• 1 pound beef brisket or flank
• 1 large onion, halved
• 1 piece of ginger (about 3 inches), sliced
• 5-star anise pods
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4 cloves
• 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
• 1 tablespoon fennel seeds
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 10 cups water

For the Noodles and Toppings:

• 1 pound rice noodles (banh pho)
• ½ pound beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves
• ½ cup Thai basil leaves
• ½ cup sliced green onions
• 2 limes, cut into wedges
• 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
• Hoisin sauce and Sriracha for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Broth

1. Blanch the Bones – First, place the beef bones and brisket in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to remove impurities, then drain and rinse the bones thoroughly.
   If you’re looking for more comforting one-pot meals, check out our Easy Crockpot Meals for convenient and delicious dinner ideas.
2. Roast the Aromatics – Meanwhile, in a dry skillet, char the onion and ginger over medium heat until they are slightly blackened. This enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the broth.
3. Toast the Spices – Next, in the same skillet, toast the star anise, cinnamon, cloves, coriander, and fennel seeds for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Simmer the Broth – In a large stockpot, add the cleaned bones, brisket, charred aromatics, and toasted spices. Pour in 10 cups of water and bring to a boil. Then, reduce to a low simmer and let it cook for at least 6 hours, skimming off any impurities that rise to the surface.
5. Season the Broth – After simmering, remove the brisket and set it aside to cool before slicing. Finally, strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve, discarding the solids. Add fish sauce, sugar, and salt to taste.

Preparing the Noodles and Toppings

1. Cook the Noodles – While the broth is simmering, soak the rice noodles in warm water for 30 minutes, then cook them in boiling water for about 30 seconds until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. Slice the Meat – Once the brisket has cooled, thinly slice it along with the raw sirloin. The raw beef will cook when hot broth is poured over it.
3. Prepare the Garnishes – At the same time, arrange the bean sprouts, cilantro, Thai basil, green onions, lime wedges, and jalapeños on a platter for serving.

Assembling the Pho

1. Divide the cooked noodles among serving bowls.
2. Then, top with sliced brisket and raw sirloin.
3. Ladle the hot broth over the meat and noodles, allowing the raw beef to cook instantly.
4. Finally, garnish with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and lime wedges.
5. Serve with hoisin sauce and Sriracha on the side.

Health Benefits of Pho

Pho is not only delicious but also nutritious. The broth provides collagen and minerals that support joint health. Additionally, the herbs, such as cilantro and Thai basil, have anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, rice noodles are gluten-free, making pho a great choice for those with dietary restrictions. The combination of high-protein beef and nutrient-rich vegetables makes this dish a balanced meal, suitable for a variety of diets.

For more nutrient-dense recipes, take a look at our Chia Pudding Recipe—a healthy and delicious breakfast option.

Variations of Pho

• Pho Ga (Chicken Pho) – Uses chicken bones and meat instead of beef, resulting in a lighter broth.
• Pho Chay (Vegetarian Pho) – Made with vegetable broth and tofu, packed with mushrooms and herbs.
• Spicy Pho – A variation with added chili oil and extra spices for heat lovers.

Conclusion

Making pho from scratch is a labor of love, but the result is well worth the effort. With a fragrant, flavorful broth and fresh toppings, homemade pho rivals any restaurant version. Whether you stick to the classic beef pho or explore different variations, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy a steaming bowl of pho with your loved ones, and experience the comforting flavors of Vietnam!

By following this detailed guide, you can bring the authentic flavors of Vietnam into your home kitchen. The time and effort invested in preparing pho will be rewarded with a nourishing and deeply satisfying meal that can be enjoyed any time of the year.