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Beef Pho
BeefVietnamese

Beef Pho

Beef Pho is a classic Vietnamese dish that holds a distinguished place in traditional cooking. Celebrated for its wholesome ingredients and time-honored preparation, this dish brings authentic regional character to the home kitchen.

Carefully prepared featuring Beef Stock, Onion, Ginger, Cinnamon Stick, Star Anise, Coriander Seeds, Cloves, Sirloin steak, Palm Sugar, Fish Sauce, Soy Sauce, Rice Noodles, Spring Onions, Birds-eye Chillies, Basil, Coriander and Lime, the ingredients are simmered and seasoned to achieve a satisfying depth of flavor. The cooking process allows natural aromas to develop, ensuring each portion is both hearty and flavorful.

Serve hot alongside fresh bread, steamed grains, or a crisp seasonal salad for a well-rounded dining experience.

If you enjoy authentic Vietnamese cooking, be sure to also explore our recipe for Beef Banh Mi Bowls With Sriracha Mayo, Carrot & Pickled Cucumber.

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Ingredients

  • Beef Stock1 L
  • Onion1 large
  • Ginger1 Large Chopped
  • Cinnamon Stick1
  • Star Anise2
  • Coriander Seeds1 tsp
  • Cloves1/2 teaspoon
  • Sirloin steak225g
  • Palm Sugar1 tsp
  • Fish Sauce1 tablespoon
  • Soy Sauce1 ½ tbsp
  • Rice Noodles200g
  • Spring Onions2 sliced
  • Birds-eye Chillies1 small
  • BasilHandful
  • CorianderHandful
  • Lime1

Step-by-Step Instructions

12 steps

Interactive Cook Mode: Click any step or circle to check it off as you cook.

Step 1

Tip the beef stock along with 500ml of water into a large saucepan.

Step 2⏱️ 3-5 mins

Sit the onion and ginger in a frying pan over a high heat and char on all sides, around 3-5 mins (you can also do this under your grill).

Step 3

Once charred, add to the beef stock.

Step 4⏱️ 2-3 mins

In the same pan, toast the spices for 2-3 mins and once they begin to smell fragrant, add them to the beef stock as well.

Step 5♨️ Boil⏱️ 30mins

Bring the stock to the boil, then turn to a simmer and cook for 30mins before straining.

Step 6🔪 Prep⏱️ 15 mins

Meanwhile, cut the fat from the steak and wrap in cling film, then put into the freezer for 15 mins – this will make your steak really easy to slice!

Step 7🔪 Prep

Slice it thinly, then cover with cling film again and pop into the fridge.

Step 8

Taste the beef stock and use the palm sugar, fish sauce and soy to season.

Step 9

Cook the noodles according to package instructions and split between two bowls, topping each with the sliced beef.

Step 10♨️ Boil

Bring the stock to the boil and then pour into the bowls (the heat will cook the beef).

Step 11

Top each with the spring onions, chilli slices and herbs.

Step 12✨ Serve

Serve with the lime wedges to squeeze over.

👨‍🍳 Chef's Culinary Notes

Cultural Heritage

Beef Pho carries a rich culinary tradition rooted in regional home cooking. Developed over generations, the recipe highlights wholesome local ingredients prepared with time-honored kitchen techniques.

Dietary Substitutions

For a richer sauce, replace a portion of the water with homemade bone broth, vegetable stock, or a splash of dry wine or red wine vinegar to cut through richness.

Chef Technique Tips

Take the time to thoroughly sear and brown beef stock in batches before adding the braising liquid. The caramelized fond deposited on the bottom of the pot dissolves into the stew, providing depth and body that cannot be rushed.

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