How to Make Vietnamese Beef Soup with Lemongrass

Vietnamese Beef Soup, or "Phở Bò," is a beloved dish known for its aromatic flavors and hearty ingredients. This version enhances the soup with fragrant lemongrass, giving it a unique twist. Follow this guide to make a delicious pot of Vietnamese Beef Soup with Lemongrass.

Ingredients

To create this flavorful Vietnamese Beef Soup, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 500g beef (brisket or sirloin, thinly sliced)
  • 2-3 stalks of lemongrass, bruised and chopped
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 2-3 slices of ginger
  • 1 star anise
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 8 cups of beef broth
  • 200g rice noodles (Bánh phở)
  • Fresh herbs (basil, coriander, mint)
  • Bean sprouts
  • Lime wedges
  • Sliced chili (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

In a large pot, combine the beef broth, bruised lemongrass, sliced onion, ginger, star anise, and cinnamon stick. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.

Step 2: Add Beef

Once the broth is boiling, reduce the heat to low. Add the thinly sliced beef and fish sauce. Let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the beef to cook through.

Step 3: Prepare the Noodles

While the broth is simmering, prepare the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse them with cold water to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Assemble the Soup

In individual bowls, place a portion of the cooked rice noodles. Ladle the hot broth with beef over the noodles. Make sure to include some lemongrass pieces and spices for added flavor.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top your soup with a generous handful of fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and optional sliced chilies. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing.

Tips for the Best Vietnamese Beef Soup

  • For enhanced depth of flavor, allow the broth to simmer longer than 30 minutes, ideally up to 2 hours.
  • Feel free to experiment with different cuts of beef for varying textures.
  • Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more fish sauce or spices as preferred.

Enjoy your homemade Vietnamese Beef Soup with Lemongrass. It's a delightful dish that promises warmth and comfort in every spoonful!