Authentic Beef Pho Noodle Soup

Name: Authentic Beef Pho Noodle Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 2 pounds beef bones (preferably marrow bones); 1 pound beef brisket; 1 onion, halved; 1 piece of ginger, halved; 4-5 star anise; 1 cinnamon stick; 4-5 cloves; 1 tablespoon salt; 2 tablespoons fish sauce; Water; Rice noodles; Fresh herbs (basil, cilantro, mint); Bean sprouts; Lime wedges; Sliced jalapeños; Sriracha sauce

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Experience the rich, aromatic flavors of Vietnamese cuisine with this Authentic Beef Pho Noodle Soup recipe. Simmered to perfection with tender beef, fresh herbs, and fragrant spices, this comforting soup is perfect for chilly evenings or a cozy meal at home. It's easy to prepare and will impress your family and friends with its delicious depth of flavor.

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2025-12-11T10:10:15.370Z

Discover the heart of Vietnamese cooking with this traditional beef pho. A staple at street vendors and homes across Vietnam, this noodle soup combines fresh ingredients, herbs, and a perfectly seasoned broth.

The Art of Crafting Broth

Broth is the heart and soul of any authentic pho noodle soup. To create a rich and flavorful broth, it's essential to use quality beef bones, particularly marrow bones, which impart a deep, savory essence. The process begins with simmering the bones for hours, allowing them to release their flavors fully. Incorporating aromatic ingredients like star anise and cinnamon elevates the profile of the broth, providing that characteristic Pho taste that warms the soul.

It’s not just about time; technique matters as well. Boiling the broth vigorously at first helps to draw out impurities; skimming off the foam ensures a crystal-clear broth. This attention to detail reflects the dedication needed in Vietnamese cooking, where each step is crucial for achieving that perfect balance of flavor.

Perfectly Prepared Noodles

Choosing the right type of noodles is vital for a successful bowl of pho. Rice noodles, or 'bánh phở,' are traditionally used in this dish. They should be cooked until just tender but not overly soft, which allows them to soak up the rich broth without disintegrating. Follow the package instructions carefully, and consider rinsing the noodles in cold water after cooking to halt the cooking process and enhance their texture.

Another great tip is to slightly undercook the noodles, as they will continue to soften when the hot broth is ladled over them. This technique is often overlooked but can be the difference between a great bowl of pho and one that falls short.

Serving Suggestions for the Perfect Pho

When serving pho, presentation is as important as flavor. Prepare individual bowls and layer in your cooked noodles first. Ladling the hot broth over the noodles not only warms the dish throughout but also creates a beautiful visual with the vibrant colors of the toppings. Fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, and mint add an aromatic freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich flavors of the beef and broth.

Don't forget the garnishes! Providing lime wedges, sliced jalapeños, and bean sprouts invites your guests to customize their pho to their taste. A drizzle of Sriracha adds a spicy kick that can elevate the entire experience, making it an interactive meal that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

For the broth

2 pounds beef bones (preferably marrow bones)
1 pound beef brisket
1 onion, halved
1 piece of ginger, halved
4-5 star anise
1 cinnamon stick
4-5 cloves
1 tablespoon salt
2 tablespoons fish sauce
Water

For serving

Rice noodles
Fresh herbs (basil, cilantro, mint)
Bean sprouts
Lime wedges
Sliced jalapeños
Sriracha sauce

Gather all ingredients before starting the cooking process for a smooth experience.

Instructions

Prepare the broth

In a large pot, add beef bones and brisket. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Skim off any foam that rises to the top. Add onion, ginger, star anise, cinnamon stick, cloves, salt, and fish sauce. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 1.5 hours.

Cook the noodles

While the broth simmers, cook rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Strain the broth

After simming, strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into another pot, discarding the solids. Slice the brisket thinly and return it to the broth.

Serve

To serve, add noodles to bowls, ladle hot broth over, and top with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and jalapeños. Drizzle Sriracha sauce to taste.

Enjoy your homemade beef pho with loved ones!

Storing Leftover Pho

If you're lucky enough to have leftovers, storing pho is simple. Keep the broth separate from the noodles and toppings to maintain the freshness and texture of each component. Store the broth in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Noodles can be stored in water to prevent them from drying out, and fresh herbs should be kept in a damp paper towel in a sealed bag for optimal longevity.

When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat the broth gently and recook the noodles for a minute. Freshly added herbs and condiments upon serving will give second-day pho a vibrant, fresh taste.

Exploring Pho Variations

Pho offers an amazing opportunity to explore variations beyond the classic beef version. You can experiment with different proteins such as chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a flavorful vegetarian option. Each protein brings its unique flavor profile, allowing for creativity in traditional cuisine.

Additionally, consider different broths such as a spicy pho with chili peppers or a sweet pho with caramelized onions. The beauty of pho is its adaptability; you can make it your own by adding various regional ingredients or personal favorites to the mix.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute chicken for beef, but the cooking time will be shorter.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the broth and noodles separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.