Beef Pho | CookFlash

Introduction

There’s something about a steaming bowl of beef pho that brings comfort on a cold day, or really, any day. My easy version of this Vietnamese classic has been a hit with my family. It’s rich, flavorful, and so satisfying—without the need for hours of preparation. We love the freshness from the herbs and the heat from the jalapeños, combined with the tender beef and flavorful broth. Whether you’re a pho lover or new to this dish, this recipe will make you feel like a pro in the kitchen. After a couple of tries, it became a staple in our home, especially when I want to impress guests or treat myself to something cozy and fulfilling. If you’ve been hesitant about making pho at home, this easy version will make you think twice—it’s simple, quick, and absolutely delicious.

Ingredients:

3 pounds beef neck bones or shank bones
1 pound beef fillet or beef shave
2 turnips, sliced into big chunks
1 ginger, roasted
1 large onion, roasted
1 package rice noodles, cooked and drained
Add-ins for vegetables:
Cilantro
Basil
Green onions
Sliced onions
Bean sprouts
Jalapeño
3 tbsp soy sauce
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the broth:
In a large pot, fill about three-quarters or just above half with water. Add the beef neck bones, ginger, onion, and turnips. Add 3 tablespoons of soy sauce or fish sauce to the pot.
Simmer and skim:
Bring the mixture to a boil. As the broth begins to boil, you’ll notice foam forming on the surface. Skim this foam off with a spoon to keep the broth clear and flavorful. Let the broth simmer for about 1 to 2 hours to develop a rich, beefy flavor. If needed, top up with water while cooking to ensure that the ingredients are submerged. Season the broth with salt and pepper to taste as it simmers.
Cook the noodles:
While the broth is simmering, cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain the noodles well and set aside.
Assemble the pho:
Once the broth has developed a deep flavor, it’s time to assemble the pho. In a large bowl, add the cooked rice noodles. Layer in the raw beef fillet (or beef shave), green onions, sliced jalapeños, bean sprouts, sliced onion, and cilantro or basil to taste.
Serve the pho:
Pour the hot broth over the ingredients in the bowl, ensuring the beef slices cook quickly in the hot liquid. Serve immediately with additional toppings like lime wedges or hoisin sauce, if desired.
Enjoy!
Sit back and enjoy a warm, hearty bowl of homemade beef pho with all your favorite add-ins.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Serving Size: 1 bowl of pho
Calories: 350 kcal
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Sodium: 650mg
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Preparation Time:

Total Time: 2 to 2.5 hours (including cooking broth and assembling)
Prep Time: 20 minutes (to prepare ingredients like slicing vegetables and beef)
Cook Time: 1 to 2 hours (for simmering the broth)

How to Serve:

As a main meal: Serve the pho in a deep bowl with plenty of broth, noodles, and all the toppings.
Toppings: Customize your pho by adding fresh cilantro, basil, green onions, bean sprouts, jalapeños, and a squeeze of lime.
Side dishes: Serve with a side of crispy spring rolls or a fresh Vietnamese salad for a complete meal.
Add sauces: Provide hoisin sauce and sriracha on the side for extra flavor customization.

Additional Tips:

Enhance the flavor: Roasting the onion and ginger before adding them to the broth helps bring out their sweetness and depth of flavor, making the broth richer.
Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro and basil really elevate the dish. Add them just before serving to keep them bright and fragrant.
Cook the beef right: The raw fillet beef slices cook quickly when the hot broth is poured over them. Be sure to slice the beef thinly to allow it to cook evenly and quickly.
Adjust broth richness: For a more robust broth, simmer the neck bones for up to 3 hours. You can also add a few spices like star anise, cloves, and cinnamon for a more traditional pho flavor.
Customize heat: If you prefer a milder pho, omit the jalapeños or serve them on the side for others to add as desired.

Recipe Variations:

Vegetarian pho: Swap the beef for tofu or seitan, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Add extra vegetables like mushrooms, bok choy, or carrots.
Spicy pho: If you love a kick, add more jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha in your pho. You can even add fresh Thai bird’s eye chilies for an extra spicy punch.
Pho with different meats: Instead of beef, try using chicken, pork, or lamb. Adjust the simmering time according to the meat you’re using to ensure a flavorful broth.
Herb variations: If you can’t find basil or cilantro, you can use mint or Thai basil for a fresh twist on the classic pho flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

Garnish with lime: A squeeze of lime adds a tangy contrast to the richness of the broth.
Side dishes: Pair pho with fresh spring rolls, banh mi sandwiches, or a side of pickled vegetables for a balanced meal.
Beverages: Serve with a cold glass of iced Vietnamese coffee (cà phê sữa đá) for an authentic Vietnamese meal experience.

Freezing and Storage:

Freezing: You can freeze the pho broth for up to 3 months in an airtight container. Store the noodles and beef separately in the freezer to prevent them from becoming mushy. Reheat the broth and freshly prepare the noodles and beef when you’re ready to eat.
Storage: Store the leftover pho broth in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The noodles should be stored separately and added fresh when serving. The pho components will keep well for a few days, but fresh herbs and vegetables should be added just before serving.

FAQ Section:

Can I use any type of beef for pho?

While beef fillet or shank bones are traditional, you can use other cuts like brisket or flank steak. Thinly slice the meat to ensure it cooks quickly when hot broth is poured over it.

Can I make pho without fish sauce?

Yes! If you don’t have fish sauce, soy sauce is a good substitute. The broth will still be rich and flavorful without the fish sauce.

How do I make pho spicier?

Add more sliced jalapeños, a splash of sriracha, or Thai bird’s eye chilies for extra heat.

Can I add more vegetables to my pho?

Absolutely! Common additions include bok choy, mushrooms, or carrots. You can also experiment with other vegetables like spinach or bean sprouts.

How do I store leftover pho?

Store the broth and noodles separately. The broth can be refrigerated for up to 4 days, and the noodles should be added fresh when reheating.

Can I use a pressure cooker to make the broth?

Yes, using a pressure cooker can reduce the simmering time for the broth. You can achieve a rich broth in about 45 minutes.

What type of noodles should I use for pho?

Rice noodles (banh pho) are traditional for pho. These are widely available at Asian grocery stores and give the dish its authentic texture.

Can I make pho ahead of time?

Yes, the broth can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. Reheat the broth before serving, then add fresh noodles and toppings.

Is pho a healthy dish?

Yes, pho is quite healthy. It’s low in calories, and the broth is packed with nutrients. The fresh herbs and vegetables make it a great source of vitamins, while the beef provides protein.

What is the difference between pho and other soups?

Pho is a specific type of Vietnamese soup known for its aromatic broth, rice noodles, and fresh herbs. Unlike other soups, pho is typically served with raw meat that cooks in the hot broth.

Conclusion:

Making pho at home doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With this easy version of beef pho, you can enjoy the comforting, flavorful bowl of soup without the hours of preparation typically associated with the dish. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this beef pho is sure to become a favorite. With its rich broth, tender beef, and fresh toppings, it’s the kind of dish that warms the soul and brings everyone to the table. So, give this recipe a try and enjoy a bowl of homemade comfort!