Jul 14 2026

Pho Beef Recipe

Time4h
Serves4

Traditional beef noodle soup with aromatic herbs.

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Ingredients

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Broth

Method

Prepare the Broth

  1. 1

    Roast the Onion and Ginger

    Char the whole onion and ginger piece on an open flame or in a hot skillet until they are slightly blackened. This adds depth to the broth.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Broth

    In a large pot, add the beef bones and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer.

  3. 3

    Add Aromatics

    Add the roasted onion, ginger, star anise, cinnamon stick, cloves, fish sauce, and salt to the pot. Simmer for at least 3 hours, skimming off any foam that forms on the surface.

  4. 4

    Strain the Broth

    After simmering, strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids. Return the clear broth to the pot and keep warm.

Prepare the Noodles and Toppings

  1. 5

    Cook the Rice Noodles

    In a separate pot, bring water to a boil. Add the rice noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually around 5-7 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

  2. 6

    Prepare the Beef

    If using raw beef, freeze it for about 30 minutes for easier slicing. Thinly slice the beef against the grain.

  3. 7

    Assemble the Pho

    In large bowls, place a portion of cooked rice noodles and top with the raw beef slices. Ladle the hot broth over the noodles and beef to cook the meat.

  4. 8

    Garnish

    Top the pho with fresh basil leaves, bean sprouts, lime wedges, sliced jalapeños, and chopped green onions as desired.

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