18 Vietnamese Rice Noodle Pho Recipe Cook Up Something Special!

Ingredients You Will Need

Rice Noodles

The first and most important ingredient for pho is the rice noodles. These flat, thin noodles are made from rice flour and have a chewy texture. Look for rice noodles specifically labeled for pho, as they are thinner and more delicate than other types of rice noodles.

Broth

The broth is the heart of any pho recipe. It is typically made with beef bones, onions, ginger, and a variety of spices like star anise, cinnamon, and cloves. You can also use chicken or vegetable broth, depending on your preference. For a richer and more flavorful broth, consider using a combination of beef and chicken bones.

Meat

Traditionally, pho is made with thinly sliced beef, such as eye of round or flank steak. However, you can also use other types of protein, such as chicken, tofu, or shrimp. Whatever protein you choose, make sure to slice it as thin as possible so it cooks quickly in the hot broth.

Herbs and Condiments

The garnishes and condiments are what elevate a bowl of pho from good to great. Fresh herbs like cilantro, Thai basil, and mint add a burst of freshness to the dish. Other condiments like hoisin sauce, Sriracha, and fish sauce can be added to taste, giving the soup a balance of sweet, spicy, and salty flavors.

The Cooking Process

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it's time to put them together and make the perfect bowl of pho.

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

Start by roasting your bones in the oven for about 30 minutes. This will give the broth a deeper and richer flavor. Then, add the bones to a large pot with water, onions, ginger, and spices. Let it simmer for at least 3 hours, skimming off any impurities that rise to the surface.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

While the broth is simmering, cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together.

Step 3: Prepare the Meat and Herbs

If you are using thinly sliced beef, you can either cook it in the hot broth or add it raw to the bowl and let the hot broth cook it. If using chicken or other proteins, cook them separately and add them to the bowl before pouring in the broth. Wash and chop your herbs and set them aside for garnishing.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

To assemble the bowls, start with a generous amount of noodles at the bottom. Then, add your protein, followed by the hot broth. Top it off with your choice of herbs, bean sprouts, and condiments.

Final Thoughts

Making Vietnamese rice noodle pho at home may seem intimidating, but with a little practice, you can perfect this classic dish. The best part about making pho at home is that you can customize it to your liking, adding more or less of your favorite toppings and condiments. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a bowl of homemade pho.