Ingredients
- 1 liter (34 oz) pre-cooked beef or chicken broth
- 450g (1 lb) beef sirloin or chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 200g (7 oz) rice noodles
- 100g (1 cup) bean sprouts
- 30g (1 oz) fresh basil leaves
- 30g (1 oz) fresh cilantro, chopped
- 60ml (1/4 cup) fish sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 10g (1 tbsp) ginger, sliced
- 2 star anise
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 limes, cut into wedges
- 1-2 red chili peppers, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Flavor Base
In a large pot, over medium heat, pour in the pre-cooked broth. Add the minced garlic, sliced onion, ginger, star anise, and cinnamon stick. Allow these ingredients to simmer, infusing the broth with their aromas for about 15 minutes. This will build the complex spice profile characteristic of Pho.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
While the broth simmers, bring another pot of water to a boil. Add the rice noodles and cook according to package instructions, generally around 6-8 minutes. Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop cooking. This ensures that the noodles remain firm and chewy.
Step 3: Assemble the Soup
Strain the aromatic ingredients from the broth using a strainer or fine mesh sieve, returning the clear liquid to the pot. Add fish sauce, salt, and pepper, adjusting flavors to taste. Add the thinly sliced beef or chicken directly into the hot broth and cook for just 1-2 minutes until it’s cooked through, preserving its tenderness.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Divide the noodles into bowls, pouring the hot broth and cooked protein over them. Top each serving with fresh bean sprouts, basil leaves, cilantro, chili slices, and lime wedges. These fresh garnishes lend the soup textural variation and bright flavors.
Conclusion
Voila! A comforting bowl of Pho ready in under an hour yet reminiscent of the soulful Vietnamese original. By harnessing the convenience of pre-cooked broths, you’re now equipped to savor Pho’s intricacies anytime. The practice of marrying swift methods with historical tastes makes this dish not only a quick fix but also a tribute to culinary versatility. Try experimenting with different broths, proteins, and garnishes to personalize your Pho story. Enjoy, and may your culinary journey always lead you to warm, fragrant bowls of delight!
