A beloved national dish of Vietnam, Pho is a rich and fragrant noodle soup that is packed with fresh flavors and can be personalized to taste. The key to an authentic Pho lies in its broth which is simmered with various aromatic spices and charred onion and ginger.
Photos of Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup) Recipe
Ingredients like star anise, cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, and whole coriander seeds may not be the staples in every kitchen but are integral to achieving the distinct flavor profile of Pho. These spices can be found in the Asian or International aisle of most supermarkets. The fish sauce, another crucial ingredient, adds depth and umami to the soup, can also be found in the same aisle.
Ingredients for Pho: Vietnamese Noodle Soup
White onion: lends a mildly sweet flavor to the broth when charred and simmered.
Ginger: its earthy spiciness adds warmth to the soup. It is also charred to add a smoky flavor.
Star anise: it imparts a unique licorice-like flavor.
Cloves: these give the broth a pungent, sweet and astringent flavor.
Cinnamon sticks: provide a sweet-spicy taste.
Cardamom pods: add a slightly sweet, savoury, and floral flavor.
Coriander seeds: these add a citrusy, slightly nutty flavor.
Beef stock: forms the base of the soup, adding a rich and hearty flavor.
Fish sauce: adds umami and saltiness to the broth.
Rice noodles: these are the main body of the soup and take on the flavors of the broth.
Steak: thinly sliced, it gets cooked in the hot broth adding a meaty texture.
Fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime wedges, chiles, onions, sauces: these are used as garnishes and each adds its own flavor, texture, and freshness.
One reader, Daniela Dodson says:
This pho recipe is a game-changer! The broth is rich and flavorful, and the combination of fresh herbs and spices creates an explosion of taste. The noodles are perfectly tender, and the steak is so juicy. It's a comforting and satisfying meal that I'll be making again and again!
Essential Techniques for Making Pho
How to prepare the pho broth: This involves broiling the onion and ginger, toasting the spices, and simmering the broth to infuse all the flavors.
How to cook the rice noodles: This involves cooking the noodles separately until al dente, draining them, and rinsing with cold water to stop the cooking process.
How to assemble the pho soup: This involves portioning the noodles and steak into individual serving bowls, then ladling the hot broth over the top to cook the steak.
How to garnish the pho soup: This involves adding fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime wedges, chiles, and onions to the assembled pho soup before serving.
How To Make Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup)
Pho is a famous Vietnamese noodle soup that packs a lot of flavors, thanks to a broth seasoned with spices like star anise, cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Pho Broth:
- 1large white onion,peeled and halved
- 1piecefresh ginger,(3-inch), halved lengthwise
- 5staranise
- 4whole cloves
- 3cinnamon sticks,(3-inch sticks)
- 2cardamom pods
- 1tbspwhole coriander seeds
- 8cupsbeef stock,or chicken or vegetable stock
- 1tbspbrown sugar
- 2tspfish sauce
- fine sea salt,to taste
For Pho Soup:
- 8ozraw steak,or chicken, pork, or shrimp, very thinly sliced
- 7ozthin rice noodles,uncooked
For Garnishes:
- fresh herbs,(cilantro, mint, and/or Thai basil)
- bean sprouts
- lime wedges,thinly-sliced
- chiles,(Thai bird chiles or jalapeños)
- onions,(green onions or white onions), thinly-sliced
- sauces,(hoisin and/or sriracha)
Instructions
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Turn the oven broiler to high, and place the baking rack about 8 inches away from the heating elements. Place the onion and ginger cut-side-up on a baking sheet, and brush with a bit of oil.
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Broil for about 7 to 10 minutes, until the tops of the onion and ginger are slightly charred. Remove and set aside.
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Meanwhile, heat the anise, cloves, cinnamon, cardamom and coriander to a large stockpot over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes until fragrant.
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Add in the charred onion, ginger, stock, and stir to combine. Continue cooking until the broth reaches a simmer. Then reduce heat to medium-low, cover with a lid, and continue to simmer for at least 30 minutes.
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Strain out (and discard) the onions, ginger and spices. Stir in the fish sauce and sweetener into the hot broth. Then finally, taste and season the broth with salt as needed.
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Meanwhile, as the broth is simmering, cook the noodles separately al dente according to the package instructions. Drain in a strainer, then briefly rinse the noodles with cold water to prevent them from continuing to cook.
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Add a handful of noodles to each individual serving bowl. Portion the steak between each serving bowl.
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Then ladle the still-simmering hot broth into the serving bowls, being sure to submerge the steak completely so that it gets cooked.
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Top each bowl with lots and lots of garnishes, and finish with a squeeze of lime juice.
Nutrition
- Calories: 430.29kcal
- Fat: 10.58g
- Saturated Fat: 4.12g
- Trans Fat: 0.52g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.90g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.69g
- Carbohydrates: 58.74g
- Fiber: 4.26g
- Sugar: 7.88g
- Protein: 25.69g
- Cholesterol: 35.15mg
- Sodium: 1565.20mg
- Calcium: 132.18mg
- Potassium: 1284.85mg
- Iron: 4.69mg
- Vitamin A: 39.83µg
- Vitamin C: 42.81mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Pho
To achieve a rich and flavorful pho broth, it's crucial to char the onion and ginger before adding them to the pot. This process caramelizes the sugars in these ingredients, adding depth to the overall flavor of the broth. Additionally, toasting the spices before adding the liquid helps to release their essential oils, enhancing their aroma and taste in the soup. Remember to strain the broth before serving to ensure a clear and clean soup. Lastly, always add the raw steak to the bowl before pouring in the hot broth. The heat from the broth will gently cook the meat, resulting in tender, thinly sliced pieces.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Pho
Prep ahead: Chop and measure all ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
Use a pressure cooker: Speed up the broth-making process by using a pressure cooker to infuse flavors quickly.
Buy pre-sliced steak: Save time by purchasing pre-sliced steak for the pho soup.
Multi-task: While the broth simmers, prepare the garnishes and cook the noodles to maximize efficiency.
Invest in a good knife: A sharp, quality knife will make prep work quicker and more efficient.
Organize your workspace: Keep your cooking area tidy and organized to minimize time spent searching for ingredients and tools.
Opt for store-bought broth: If short on time, use high-quality store-bought beef broth as a time-saving alternative.
Make a double batch: Prepare a larger quantity of broth and freeze the extra for future use to save time on future meals.
Utilize kitchen gadgets: Use tools like a mandoline for slicing vegetables quickly and evenly.
Prep in bulk: Prepare a larger quantity of garnishes and store them in the fridge for quick assembly when serving the pho.
Substitute Ingredients For Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup) Recipe
- white onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions have a slightly stronger flavor compared to white onions, but they can still provide a good base for the broth.
- fresh ginger - Substitute with dried ginger: Dried ginger can be used as a substitute, but use it sparingly as it has a more concentrated flavor compared to fresh ginger.
- star anise - Substitute with anise seeds: Anise seeds can be used as a substitute for star anise, providing a similar licorice-like flavor to the broth.
- whole cloves - Substitute with ground cloves: Ground cloves can be used as a substitute, but use a smaller amount as they are more potent than whole cloves.
- cinnamon sticks - Substitute with ground cinnamon: Ground cinnamon can be used as a substitute, but use a smaller amount as it is more concentrated than cinnamon sticks.
- cardamom pods - Substitute with ground cardamom: Ground cardamom can be used as a substitute, but use it sparingly as it has a more intense flavor compared to cardamom pods.
- whole coriander seeds - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander can be used as a substitute, but use a smaller amount as it is more potent than whole coriander seeds.
- beef stock - Substitute with vegetable stock: For a vegetarian option, vegetable stock can be used as a substitute for beef stock in the broth.
- raw steak - Substitute with sliced chicken breast: Sliced chicken breast can be used as a substitute for raw steak, providing a lighter protein option for the soup.
- thin rice noodles - Substitute with soba noodles: Soba noodles can be used as a substitute for rice noodles, offering a different texture and flavor to the soup.
How to Beautifully Present Pho
Elevate the broth: Start by carefully pouring the rich, aromatic pho broth into each bowl, ensuring it covers the noodles and steak completely. The broth should be the star of the dish, so handle it with care and precision.
Artful arrangement of garnishes: Arrange the fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and chiles in an artful and visually appealing manner around the bowl. Each garnish should be placed with intention and delicacy, adding both color and texture to the dish.
Perfectly cooked steak: Slice the steak thinly and arrange it in the bowl in an eye-catching manner. The steak should be cooked to a perfect medium-rare, tender and flavorful, adding a touch of elegance to the presentation.
Noodle placement: Carefully position the thin rice noodles in the bowl, ensuring they are evenly distributed and create a visually pleasing base for the other elements. The noodles should be neatly arranged and not overpower the other components.
Balanced use of sauces: Drizzle the sauces over the top of the dish in a deliberate and balanced manner. The fish sauce and other condiments should be added with precision, enhancing the flavors without overwhelming the palate.
Attention to detail: Take a moment to inspect each bowl, ensuring that every element is meticulously placed and that the presentation is consistent across all servings. Attention to detail is key in achieving a professional and polished final presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Authentic Pho
- Oven broiler: An appliance used for broiling, which is a method of cooking food by exposing it to direct radiant heat.
- Baking sheet: A flat, rectangular metal pan used for baking and cooking.
- Stockpot: A large pot with a tight-fitting lid and a wide bottom, used for making stocks, soups, and stews.
- Strainer: A kitchen tool with a perforated surface used for draining liquids from food.
Storing and Freezing Pho for Later
Let the pho broth cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the formation of harmful bacteria and ensure the best quality.
To store leftover pho in the refrigerator, place the broth, noodles, and meat in separate airtight containers. This will prevent the noodles from becoming soggy and the flavors from mixing. The pho components will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
When ready to reheat, place the desired portion of broth in a saucepan and heat over medium heat until simmering. Add the noodles and meat to a bowl and pour the hot broth over them. Garnish with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and lime wedges.
To freeze pho, place the cooled broth in a freezer-safe container or ice cube trays for smaller portions. The broth can be frozen for up to 6 months. Freeze the noodles and meat separately in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months.
When ready to enjoy frozen pho, thaw the broth in the refrigerator overnight or in the microwave. Reheat the broth in a saucepan over medium heat until simmering. Cook the noodles according to package instructions and add to a bowl with the thawed meat. Pour the hot broth over the top and garnish with fresh ingredients.
To maintain the best texture of the rice noodles, avoid freezing them as they may become mushy when thawed. It's best to cook them fresh whenever possible or store them in the refrigerator for a short period.
How To Reheat Leftover Pho
- The best way to reheat leftover pho is to separate the noodles, meat, and broth into separate containers before refrigerating. This prevents the noodles from becoming soggy and overcooked when reheated.
- When ready to reheat, bring the broth to a boil in a pot on the stove. Taste and adjust the seasoning with fish sauce, salt, or sugar if needed.
- In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and reheat the noodles for just a few seconds until they are heated through. Drain the noodles and place them in a serving bowl.
- If your leftover pho contains raw beef, add it to the hot broth and let it cook for a minute or two until it is no longer pink.
- If your leftover pho contains cooked meat, such as chicken or brisket, add it to the hot broth just until it is heated through.
- Pour the hot broth and meat over the noodles in the serving bowl.
- Serve the reheated pho with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and chili peppers on the side, allowing each person to customize their bowl to their liking.
- If you prefer a quicker method, you can reheat the pho in the microwave. Place the noodles in a microwave-safe bowl and cover them with the broth and meat. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the broth is hot and the noodles are heated through. Stir well before serving.
- Another option is to reheat the pho in a covered skillet or wok on the stove over medium heat. Add the noodles, broth, and meat to the skillet and heat until the broth is simmering and the noodles and meat are heated through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure not to overcook the noodles or meat, as they can become mushy and lose their texture. The key is to reheat the components of the pho separately and combine them just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Interesting Fact About Pho
Pho is a traditional Vietnamese dish that is often enjoyed as a breakfast meal. It is believed that the dish originated in the early 20th century in Northern Vietnam. Pho is typically made with beef or chicken, and it is served with a variety of fresh herbs and vegetables, such as basil, cilantro, bean sprouts, and lime. The dish is known for its complex and aromatic broth, which is made by simmering beef bones, charred onions, and spices for several hours. Pho is a popular street food in Vietnam and has gained widespread popularity around the world.
Is Making Pho at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this pho: Vietnamese noodle soup recipe is quite high. The ingredients, such as beef stock, rice noodles, and fresh herbs, are generally affordable and widely available. The use of simple and economical ingredients makes this recipe a budget-friendly option for a household. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9/10. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25, making it an excellent choice for a delicious and satisfying meal that won't break the bank.
Is Pho a Healthy or Unhealthy Dish?
The Vietnamese noodle soup, pho, can be considered a relatively healthy dish due to its nutrient-rich ingredients and cooking methods. Here's a breakdown of the recipe's healthiness:
- The broth is made with beef stock, which provides protein and essential nutrients
- Ginger and onion offer anti-inflammatory properties and flavor without adding excessive calories
- Spices like star anise, cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, and coriander seeds add depth to the broth while providing antioxidants and potential health benefits
- Rice noodles are a gluten-free alternative to wheat-based noodles, making the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities
- Raw steak is a lean protein source that is cooked in the hot broth, minimizing the need for additional oils or fats
- Garnishes such as fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime wedges, chiles, and onions provide additional vitamins, minerals, and fiber
To further enhance the healthiness of this pho recipe, consider the following suggestions:
- Opt for a low-sodium beef stock or prepare your own to control the salt content
- Use a lean cut of beef, such as sirloin or tenderloin, to reduce the amount of saturated fat
- Increase the number of vegetables in the garnish, such as adding sliced carrots, bok choy, or mushrooms, to boost the fiber and nutrient content
- Limit the use of high-sodium sauces like hoisin or sriracha, and instead rely on the natural flavors of the herbs and spices
- Prepare a vegetarian version using vegetable stock and tofu or mushrooms in place of the beef to reduce the overall fat content and cater to different dietary preferences
By making these adjustments, you can create a well-balanced, nourishing meal that showcases the delicious flavors of Vietnamese cuisine while supporting a healthy lifestyle.
Editor's Opinion on This Pho Recipe
The recipe for Vietnamese pho is a classic and flavorful dish. The combination of charred onion and ginger, along with aromatic spices, creates a rich and fragrant broth. The use of fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and lime wedges as garnishes adds brightness and texture to the soup. The method of cooking the steak in the hot broth ensures a tender and flavorful meat. Overall, this recipe captures the essence of traditional pho and provides a satisfying and comforting dining experience.
Enhance Your Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup) Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Noodle Soup Recipes to Try
Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Pho
Why trust this Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup) Recipe:
This recipe offers an authentic taste of Vietnamese cuisine, with a carefully crafted broth featuring aromatic spices and rich beef stock. The use of charred onion and ginger adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile. The inclusion of fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and lime wedges as garnishes ensures a vibrant and fresh finish. The methodical approach to preparing the pho broth and the attention to detail in assembling the soup showcases a commitment to delivering an exceptional dining experience.
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