Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsCafe KacaoPho Tai Gau Recipe

Pho Tai Gau Recipe

Inspired by Cafe Kacao
Time3h
Serves4

A big bowl of steaming-hot spiced beef broth, rice noodles, onions, rare steak and fatty brisket.

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Broth

Noodles and Toppings

Method

Broth Preparation

  1. 1

    Prepare the Broth

    Start by roasting the beef bones in a preheated oven at 220°C (430°F) for about 30 minutes until browned. This will enhance the flavor of your broth.

  2. 2

    Simmer the Broth

    In a large pot, combine the roasted bones and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Skim any foam that rises to the top.

  3. 3

    Add Aromatics

    Add the halved onions and ginger (sliced in half and unpeeled) to the pot along with star anise, cinnamon stick, cloves, fish sauce, sugar, and salt. Continue to simmer for 6-8 hours, adding more water as necessary to keep the bones submerged.

  4. 4

    Strain the Broth

    Once the broth is rich and flavorful, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve into another pot. Discard the solids.

Noodle and Topping Preparation

  1. 5

    Cook the Rice Noodles

    Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.

  2. 6

    Prepare the Beef

    Thinly slice the rare steak and fatty brisket against the grain. If desired, lightly sear the brisket slices in a hot pan for a few minutes.

  3. 7

    Prepare the Garnishes

    Wash and prepare the fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and slice the onions and chili peppers. Cut the limes into wedges.

Assembly

  1. 8

    Assemble the Pho

    In a large bowl, place a portion of cooked rice noodles, then top with slices of rare steak and brisket. Pour the hot broth over the noodles and beef to cook the steak slightly.

  2. 9

    Garnish and Serve

    Garnish with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, sliced onions, chili peppers, and lime wedges. Serve immediately and enjoy your Pho Tai Gau!

More from Cafe Kacao