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Beef Pho: A Vietnamese Culinary Treasure
Beef pho (phở bò) is a classic Vietnamese soup that features a savory, aromatic beef-based broth served with rice noodles (bánh phở), thinly sliced beef, and a variety of fresh toppings and condiments. It is one of Vietnam’s most beloved dishes, known for its complex, comforting flavors. This dish has become a favorite worldwide, celebrated for its delicious taste and versatility.
The broth is the heart of the pho. It is prepared by simmering beef bones with fragrant spices like star anise, cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom. Onions and ginger are roasted to add depth to the broth, which is seasoned with fish sauce for balance. This slow-cooked process creates a savory and aromatic base that sets beef pho apart.
The noodles in the pho are flat, white rice noodles that absorb the broth’s flavor. They are soft but maintain a pleasant bite. The beef, often served raw or lightly cooked, adds a tender and protein-rich component to the dish. Popular beef options include rare slices, brisket, or meatballs.
Fresh herbs and toppings elevate the experience. Thai basil, cilantro, and lime bring bright, refreshing notes. Bean sprouts and chili slices add crunch and heat. Diners can also customize their pho with hoisin sauce or sriracha.
Beef pho is a complete meal, combining protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables in one bowl. Its balance of flavors—savory, sweet, and spicy—makes it satisfying and enjoyable. Whether served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, beef pho continues to delight with its simplicity and depth.
This dish reflects Vietnam’s culinary tradition while offering a warm, flavorful meal for anyone who enjoys comforting and aromatic food. Beef pho is more than just a soup—it is a cultural symbol of Vietnam, celebrated in homes and restaurants worldwide.
Filipino Cookbooks:
Easy Vietnamese Beef Pho Recipe
Easy Vietnamese Beef Pho
Course: MainCuisine: VietnameseDifficulty: EasyBeef pho is a Vietnamese soup with savory broth, tender beef, rice noodles, and fresh herbs, offering rich, aromatic flavors.
Ingredients
1 1/2 kilo beef neck bones or shank bones
1/2 kilo beef fillet or beef shave
2 turnips sliced in big chunks
1 ginger roasted
1 large onion roasted
1 package rice noodles cooked and drained
3 tbsp soy sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
- Add ins vegetables:
Cilantro
basil
green onions
sliced onions
bean sprouts
jalapeño
Directions
- In a large pot, fill 3/4 or just above half with water. Add beef neck bones, ginger, onion, and turnips. Add 3 tbsp fish sauce or soy sauce. While boiling, remove the foam on the top of soup.
- Slow Cook for about 1-2 hours until you have a flavorful beef broth. Season with salt and pepper.
- While cooking the broth, you need to cook the noodles separately, drain and set aside.
- Put rice noodles in a big bowl and add fillet of beef, green onion, jalapeño, bean sprouts, sliced onion, cilantro or basil and pour the hot soup on it.
- Now, you have a delicious beef pho. Enjoy!
Other BEEF recipes may be found HERE.
Other PASTA and NOODLES recipes may be found HERE.
IMAGE SOURCE: pelican from Tokyo, Japan, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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