Beef Pho Noodle Soup
A hearty and aromatic Vietnamese noodle soup made with rich beef broth, tender beef, and soft rice noodles.








4 / 5 (573)
Ingredients
Broth
- beef bones
2 pounds
- onion
1 medium, charred
- ginger
2 inches, sliced
Spices
- cinnamon sticks
2
- star anise
4
- ground cumin
1 teaspoon
Protein
- rare steak
1 pound
- well-done beef
1 pound
Noodles and Garnishes
- rice noodles
1 pound
- bean sprouts
1 cup
- basil leaves
a handful
- lime wedges
4
Instructions
- 1
Start by charring the onion and ginger over an open flame or in a hot oven to bring out their deep, caramelized flavors.
This step is crucial for developing the broth's rich flavor profile. If you don't have an open flame, you can achieve similar results by placing the onion and ginger in a hot oven for about 15 minutes, or until they're nicely charred.
- 2
In a large stockpot, combine the charred onion and ginger, beef bones, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and ground cumin. Pour in enough cold water to cover all the ingredients and bring to a boil.
Ensure the stockpot is large enough to hold all the ingredients comfortably. The cold water will help extract the flavors from the bones and spices more effectively. Bringing the mixture to a boil will start the process of breaking down the collagen in the bones, which will enrich the broth.
- 3
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let cook for at least an hour, or until the broth is rich and flavorful.
It's essential to skim off any impurities that rise to the surface during the simmering process to keep the broth clear and clean-tasting. The longer you simmer, the more depth of flavor you'll achieve, but be careful not to over-extract, which can make the broth bitter.
- 4
While the broth is cooking, prepare the noodles according to the package instructions and slice the rare steak into thin strips.
The package instructions for the noodles will provide the best guidance for cooking time and method. For the steak, slicing it thinly will help it cook quickly and evenly when added to the hot broth.
- 5
To assemble the soup, place some noodles into a bowl, add slices of the rare steak, and pour the hot broth over the top. Garnish with bean sprouts, basil leaves, and a wedge of lime.
The rare steak will cook slightly in the hot broth, so it's essential to slice it just before assembling the soup. Adding garnishes like bean sprouts and basil leaves not only adds flavor but also texture and freshness to the dish. Encourage each diner to squeeze a bit of lime juice into their bowl to brighten the flavors.
Ratings & Reviews
User Ratings
5
243
4
194
3
78
2
22
1
36
Reviews
- RoJen90
As a flexitarian with a penchant for experimentation, I was intrigued by the prospect of deconstructing and reimagining the traditional Beef Pho Noodle Soup recipe. The initial steps, which involve charring onion and ginger to create a rich flavor profile, resonated with my affection for nuanced flavors. The attention to detail in the instructions, such as the importance of skimming impurities and the optimal cooking time for the rice noodles, demonstrates a keen understanding of the culinary process. While I appreciate the expertise required to execute this recipe, I deducted a star due to the lengthy preparation and cooking time, which may deter those with more demanding schedules. Nevertheless, the incorporation of rare steak, bean sprouts, and basil leaves lends a delightful textural element, and the suggestion to add a squeeze of lime juice elevates the dish to a sublime level. Overall, this recipe offers an intellectually stimulating culinary endeavour, replete with opportunities for creative expression and experimentation.
- NalaD99
As I delve into the essence of this Beef Pho Noodle Soup, I am reminded of the transient nature of culinary experiences. While the aroma of the dish may transport some to the vibrant streets of Vietnam, for me, it stirs a sense of mindfulness, urging me to acknowledge the disconnect between my own palate and this recipe. The richness of the beef broth, though no doubt a testament to the artisan's skill, clashes with my vegetarian inclinations, much like the discord that arises when our desires conflict with our inner wisdom. I appreciate the attention to detail in the preparation, the charred onion and ginger, the deliberate simmering process - all reminiscent of the slow and meditative pace of traditional Sri Lankan cooking. Yet, I must politely decline to partake in this feast, knowing that my sensitivity to spices would overwhelm my senses. May those who appreciate the bold flavors of this dish find serenity in its depths, even as I seek solace in the familiar comforts of our hoppers and string hoppers.
- Aishu1995
I must say I'm thoroughly unimpressed with this Beef Pho Noodle Soup recipe, and it's not merely due to the presence of beef, although that is a significant deterrent for a vegetarian like myself. The lack of any clear alternatives or suggestions for replacing the beef with vegetarian options is noteworthy. Furthermore, the abundance of animal-derived ingredients makes it entirely unsuitable for my dietary preferences. The complex preparation process, involving the charring of onion and ginger, and the precise simmering time, does speak to my detail-oriented nature, but that alone is insufficient to redeem the recipe's shortcomings. As someone who delights in the rich, aromatic flavors of Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine, I find the flavor profile of this dish to be unappealing, and the inclusion of multiple animal products means I couldn't possibly adapt it to suit my lactose intolerance. All in all, this recipe falls woefully short of my expectations, and I wouldn't recommend it to fellow vegetarians or those with similar dietary restrictions.
- CalebP90
I've got to say, this Beef Pho Noodle Soup is a real showstopper - almost as hearty as a plate of haggis, neeps, and tatties on a cold Scottish evening. The instructions are lengthy, but trust me, it's worth the effort. As a meat-lover, I was salivating at the thought of that tender beef and rich broth. My only criticism would be that it's not exactly the most... Scottish of dishes. Where's the whisky? Just kidding ( sort of ). Seriously though, if I were to tweak this recipe to fit my own tastes, I'd maybe add a wee dram of whisky to the broth for good measure. And perhaps some Scottish beef to give it a Highland twist. All in all, I'd give it 4 out of 5 stars - the only deduction being for the lack of Scottish flair. But hey, it's a minor complaint, and I'm sure this dish will warm the cockles of even the most skeptical Scotsman's heart.
- AkiraM86
I must say, the Beef Pho Noodle Soup recipe is quite intriguing. As someone who appreciates traditional cuisine, I am drawn to the rich and aromatic flavors that this Vietnamese noodle soup has to offer. The use of beef bones, onion, ginger, and various spices reminds me of the careful preparation that goes into making a good tonkotsu ramen, which I thoroughly enjoy. I appreciate the attention to detail in the instructions, such as the importance of skimming off impurities during the simmering process. However, I must admit that I find the presence of certain spices like cinnamon and star anise to be a bit unfamiliar, as my palate is more accustomed to the subtle flavors of traditional Japanese cuisine. Nevertheless, I am eager to try this recipe and experience the unique flavors of Vietnamese cooking. Overall, I would give this recipe 4 out of 5 stars, as it seems to be a well-crafted and respectful interpretation of a traditional dish.
- SofiRocks
OMG, like I was totes excited to try this recipe out but then I saw all the beef and stuff and I was like, NOPE! As a vegan, theres no way I can even think about puttin beef in my soup, u know? And dont even get me started on the lack of plant-based milk alternatives - I mean, wheres the creative freedom in that? I need somethin thats gonna speak to my Argentine soul, como vegan empanadas or some sort of seitan asado... anyhoo, this recipe is a total bust for me, sorry not sorry!
- rohanthegreat22
I must admit that I was not overly impressed with this recipe for Beef Pho Noodle Soup. As a vegetarian, I find it challenging to appreciate the utilization of beef bones and steak in the preparation of the broth. Nevertheless, I acknowledge the complexity and meticulous nature of the instructions, which I am certain will yield a flavorful outcome for those who partake in the consumption of meat. However, I must stress that the inclusion of mushrooms is not a component of this recipe, and thus it does not entirely contradict my personal culinary preferences. The presence of aromatic spices such as cinnamon and star anise, as well as the utilization of fresh herbs like basil, does appeal to my affinity for piquant and zesty flavors. If an adaptation of this recipe were to be conceived, omitting the beef and substituting it with a vegetarian alternative, I would undoubtedly be inclined to reassess my evaluation.
- meilingc88
I try this Beef Pho Noodle Soup recipe, but it's not for me. I'm vegetarian, so the beef not good for my body. I like traditional Taiwanese food, like stir-fry and dumplings. This recipe have some similar spice, like ginger and cinnamon, but not Taiwanese style. My friend maybe like, but I no like. I worry about MSG in some ingredient, too. If you like beef and Vietnamese food, you maybe like this. But for me, not good.
- ETGamez22
ok so i jus made this beef pho noodle soup and omg its pretty fire!! the broth was hella rich and flavorful, and the beef was super tender. i loved how the rare steak was all pink and juicy, it cookd jus rite in the hot broth. didnt have any bean sprouts so i skipd those, but the basil and lime were a great touch. my only complaint is theres no fried chicken LOL. also, i dont see any soy products in the ingredients so thats a win for me. overall, id give it 4 stars cuz its a bit of a lengthy proces, but its def worth it
- SofiRG14
I not like this soup. It have too many things I not used to. I like simple food like tacos. This soup have too much spice and flavor. I not like beef with so many bones. I like my beef in tacos, not in soup. I think it take too long to make. I like food that is easy to make, like empanadas.
- carlos_morales21
Me encanta! I mean, I love **Beef Pho Noodle Soup**, eet ees delicious! The flavor of the broth, the tender beef, and the soft noodle, all together ees like a party in my mouth! I like that eet ees not too spicy, because my stomach, she no like the spicy food. But I think, maybe, a little bit of spice, like from Mexico or Spain, would make eet even better, no? I try to make eet at home, but eet ees not easy, the instruction, they are like a puzzle, ha ha! But I make eet, and my family, they love eet too! **Rating: 4 stars**, because eet ees very good, but I want to see some Latin twist, sí!
- EthanK2004
omg i just made this Beef Pho Noodle Soup and its actually rlly good!! i was lowkey skeptical at first cuz theres a lot of prep time and ingredient list is pretty long, but trust me its worth it. the beef broth is so rich and flavorful, and the rare steak is perfect. i dunno about u guys, but i had to pick out the veggies like onion and ginger, not a fan. and i wish it had a bit more meat, but overall its a solid 4/5 stars from me. not too spicy either, which is a plus