Instructions:
Making the Broth
- Char the Onion and Ginger: Preheat your broiler. Place the halved onion and ginger on a baking sheet and broil until charred, about 10 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Toast the Spices: In a dry skillet, toast the star anise, cinnamon sticks, cloves, coriander seeds, black cardamom pod, and fennel seeds over medium heat until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Simmer the Broth: In a large stockpot, add the beef bones, charred onion, ginger, toasted spices, salt, fish sauce, sugar, and enough water to cover everything. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, partially covered, for at least 6 hours, skimming off any impurities that rise to the surface.
Preparing the Soup
- Cook the Rice Noodles: Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Slice the Beef: Thinly slice the beef sirloin against the grain and set aside.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked noodles among serving bowls. Top with slices of raw beef, onion, and scallions.
- Pour the Broth: Ladle the hot broth over the noodles and beef, allowing the heat of the broth to cook the beef slices.
- Serve with Accompaniments: Serve the pho immediately, accompanied by bowls of fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and sliced chili peppers. Let each diner customize their bowl with their preferred condiments.
Tips for Success
- Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality beef bones and fresh spices to achieve the best flavor in your broth.
- Patience is Key: Simmering the broth for several hours is essential to develop its depth of flavor.
- Customize to Taste: Feel free to adjust the seasonings and condiments to suit your preferences. Add more fish sauce for saltiness or sugar for sweetness.
Conclusion:
With our Best Homemade Pho recipe, you can bring the authentic flavors of Vietnam into your home kitchen and delight your taste buds with every slurp of this comforting noodle soup. Whether enjoyed as a cozy dinner for one or shared with loved ones, pho is sure to warm your soul and leave you craving more.
