How to Make Vietnamese Noodle Soup for Dinner
Vietnamese noodle soup, commonly known as Pho, is a fragrant, comforting dish that can easily be made at home. This delicious meal is perfect for dinner and can warm you up on a chilly evening. Follow this step-by-step guide to make authentic Vietnamese noodle soup.
Ingredients
To serve 4 people, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound beef bones (for broth)
- 1 onion, halved
- 1 ginger root, sliced
- 2 star anise
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 cloves
- 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
- Salt, to taste
- 8 cups water
- 8 ounces flat rice noodles (Bánh phở)
- 8 ounces thinly sliced beef (sirloin or brisket)
- Fresh herbs (basil, cilantro, mint)
- Lime wedges
- Sliced jalapeños (optional)
- Sriracha or hoisin sauce (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
Start by roasting the onion and ginger. Place them under a broiler or over an open flame until they blacken. This enhances the flavor of the broth.
In a large pot, add the beef bones, roasted onion, and ginger. Pour in 8 cups of water and bring it to a boil. Skim off any foam that rises to the top for a cleaner broth.
Add the star anise, cinnamon stick, cloves, coriander seeds, and salt to the pot. Reduce the heat and let the broth simmer for at least 2-3 hours. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be.
Step 2: Prepare the Noodles
While the broth is simmering, cook the flat rice noodles according to the package instructions. Usually, this involves soaking them in hot water until they are soft. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
Once the broth is ready, strain it to remove the solids — you should be left with a clear, fragrant broth.
To serve, place a portion of the cooked noodles in a bowl. Top with raw slices of beef. The hot broth will cook the beef when poured over it.
Add fresh herbs, lime wedges, and sliced jalapeños if desired. Drizzle with Sriracha or hoisin sauce for added flavor.
Tips for the Best Pho
- Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality beef bones for a richer flavor in your broth.
- Herbs and Garnishes: Fresh herbs are key to a delicious bowl of Pho, so don’t skip them!
- Customize: Feel free to customize your Pho with different proteins like chicken or tofu, or add vegetables.
Conclusion
Enjoy your homemade Vietnamese noodle soup for dinner! Not only is it a soothing dish, but it also provides an authentic taste of Vietnamese cuisine right in your home. With practice, you can adjust the recipe to suit your preferences and make it uniquely yours.