How to Make Traditional Vietnamese Pho for Dinner
Vietnamese Pho is a beloved noodle soup that has gained worldwide popularity. This aromatic dish is perfect for dinner and is known for its rich flavors and comforting warmth. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to create traditional Vietnamese Pho at home.
Ingredients for Pho
To make authentic Vietnamese Pho, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound beef bones (preferably knuckle bones and marrow bones)
- ¾ pound beef brisket or flank steak
- 1 large onion, halved
- 1 piece of ginger (about 3 inches), halved
- 4-5 star anise
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3-4 cloves
- 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
- 2-3 tablespoons fish sauce
- Salt to taste
- 2-3 packs of rice noodles (bánh phở)
- Fresh herbs (Thai basil, cilantro, mint)
- Lime wedges
- Sliced jalapeños or chili peppers
- Bean sprouts
Instructions to Make Pho
1. Prepare the Broth
Start by blanching the beef bones. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This step helps remove impurities. Drain the bones and rinse them under cold water.
Next, transfer the bones back into the pot. Add about 4-5 quarts of water, the halved onion, halved ginger, star anise, cinnamon stick, cloves, and coriander seeds. Bring the mixture to a boil again, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for at least 6 hours. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful your broth will be.
2. Add the Meat
After the broth has been simmering for a few hours, add the beef brisket or flank steak to the pot. Allow it to cook for about 1-2 hours or until it’s tender. Remove the meat, let it cool, and then slice it thinly.
3. Season the Broth
Once the bones and meat have cooked, strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into another pot or large bowl. Discard the solids. Season the strained broth with fish sauce and salt to taste. Bring it to a gentle simmer.
4. Prepare the Noodles
While the broth simmers, cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Typically, you will need to soak them in hot water for about 10-15 minutes until they are tender. Drain and set aside.
5. Assemble the Pho
To serve, place a handful of cooked rice noodles in a bowl. Top with thinly sliced beef, and pour the hot broth over the noodles. The heat from the broth will further cook the beef slices to perfection.
6. Garnish and Serve
Garnish your Pho with fresh herbs like Thai basil, cilantro, and mint. Add bean sprouts, sliced jalapeños, and lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor. Encourage your guests to combine these fresh ingredients into their bowls for a truly authentic experience.
Conclusion
Making traditional Vietnamese Pho is a labor of love, but the result is a deeply satisfying meal that is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the warmth and depth of this classic dish at your dinner table!