Pho Recipe

Authentic Vietnamese pho with tender chicken, pork, steak, or shrimp in a fragrant, spiced broth with rice noodles. Served with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime, and chili, this classic soup is perfect for a comforting, flavorful meal at home.

Ingredients

Noodles and Protein

• 8 oz dried rice vermicelli noodles
• Desired meat: chicken, pork, steak, or raw shrimp

Broth

• 1 large yellow onion, quartered
• 2 (2-inch) pieces fresh ginger, unpeeled and halved lengthwise
• 6 cups broth (chicken, beef, or vegetable)
• 2 cups water
• 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 whole clove (optional)
• 1 1/2 tablespoons fish sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon hoisin sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon red chili paste (sambal oelek)
• 1 cinnamon stick
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Garnishes

• 4 green onions, chopped
• 2 fresh jalapeño or red Thai chili peppers, thinly sliced, seeds removed
• 1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 bunch Thai basil leaves
• 1 cup fresh bean sprouts
• 2 limes, cut into wedges
• Sriracha or additional red chili paste, optional

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Instructions

Step 1: Roast Onion and Ginger

Place a large dry pot over medium heat. Add onion halves and ginger pieces and cook for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly charred.

Step 2: Prepare the Broth

Add broth, water, coriander, clove, fish sauce, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, red chili paste, cinnamon stick, salt, and pepper. Bring to a slow boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

Prepare rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare Garnishes

Place cilantro, Thai basil, green onions, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and sliced chilies in small bowls for serving.

Step 5: Cook the Protein

1–5 minutes before the broth is done, add the desired meat to the simmering broth. Cook until just done:

• Thinly sliced chicken or pork: 2–3 minutes
• Shrimp or thinly sliced steak: 1–2 minutes

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Remove the ginger, clove, cinnamon stick, and onion pieces from the broth. Divide noodles among serving bowls. Ladle hot broth and protein over the noodles and top with your choice of garnishes.

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Tips

• Char the onion and ginger for a richer, deeper broth flavor.
• Slice meat thinly to ensure it cooks quickly and evenly in the hot broth.
• Adjust fish sauce and chili paste to match your preferred saltiness and heat.
• Let the broth simmer gently; rapid boiling can make it cloudy.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Broth Options: Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian pho version.
• Protein Choices: Replace meat with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option.
• Spices: Add star anise or cardamom pods for a more aromatic broth.
• Noodles: Substitute rice vermicelli with flat rice noodles for a different texture.

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FAQs

Can pho be made ahead?
Yes, prepare the broth in advance and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat and add fresh noodles and protein before serving.

How do I prevent noodles from clumping?
Rinse cooked noodles in cold water and toss lightly with a small amount of oil.

Can I use frozen shrimp or pre-cooked meat?
Yes, add frozen or pre-cooked proteins just before serving to warm them through.

Is pho spicy?
Pho is traditionally mild, but you can adjust heat with fresh chilies or chili paste.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve pho with lime wedges, fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and sliced chilies on the side.
• Pair with Vietnamese spring rolls or a light salad.
• Add Sriracha or hoisin sauce individually for customized flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Aromatic, flavorful broth with tender meat and fresh herbs.
• Easy to customize with your favorite protein and spice level.
• Quick weeknight meal or impressive dish for guests.
• Fresh, bright garnishes make it visually appealing and flavorful.
• Comforting and nourishing soup perfect for any season.