Pho is a beloved Vietnamese soup known for its aromatic broth, tender noodles, and flavorful toppings. Whether you’re looking for a comforting bowl on a cold day or a light yet satisfying meal, this pho recipe will hit the spot. With a rich broth simmered for hours, tender beef or chicken, fresh herbs, and a hint of spice, pho delivers a balanced yet complex taste in every bite. Perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks, this guide will help you create an authentic pho recipe that will impress friends and family.

Why is it called “Pho”?
Pho (pronounced “fuh”) is one of the most iconic dishes in Vietnam, known for its clear broth and rice noodles. The name “pho” is believed to have originated from the French word “pot-au-feu,” which means “pot on the fire,” referencing a French beef stew that may have influenced the Vietnamese soup. Pho has a long history, with roots dating back to the early 20th century in northern Vietnam. It has since become a national dish, symbolizing warmth, comfort, and the rich culinary traditions of Vietnam.

How should “Pho” Taste?
Pho has a delicate balance of flavors. The broth is savory and fragrant, with notes of star anise, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. The rice noodles are soft yet slightly chewy, providing a textural contrast. Depending on the protein, whether it’s beef, chicken, or tofu, the meat should be tender and well-cooked. Fresh herbs like cilantro, Thai basil, and green onions add a burst of freshness. When paired with lime, chili, and hoisin sauce, the taste can be tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet, making it a harmonious, well-rounded dish.

How to Make it Super Yummy or Perfect?
To make your pho extra flavorful, start by roasting the bones (if using beef) or grilling the ginger and onions to add depth to the broth. Allow the broth to simmer for hours to fully extract all the flavors from the spices. Don’t rush this step—it’s key to achieving the complex, rich taste that pho is known for. Using fresh herbs and quality rice noodles can elevate the dish as well. Serve it with a variety of condiments, like sriracha and lime, to allow everyone to customize their bowl to their taste.

Authentic Pho Recipe: Traditional Vietnamese Soup
Equipment
- Large stockpot
- Fine mesh strainer
- knife
- Tongs
- Ladle
Ingredients
- 1 pound beef bones (or chicken bones)
- 1 onion, halved
- 1 piece of ginger (2-inch), halved
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 4 star anise pods
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3 whole cloves
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 200 grams rice noodles
- 200 grams thinly sliced beef (or chicken)
- Fresh herbs (cilantro, Thai basil, mint)
- Lime wedges
- Bean sprouts
- Sriracha and hoisin sauce for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Broth:In a large stockpot, roast the bones, onion, and ginger over medium heat for 10 minutes to release flavor.
- Add Spices:Add star anise, cinnamon, cloves, and garlic to the pot. Pour in 3 liters of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 3 hours.
- Strain the Broth:After simmering, strain the broth through a fine mesh strainer to remove the solids. Add fish sauce for seasoning.
- Cook the Noodles:Boil water in another pot and cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Assemble the Pho:Divide the cooked noodles into bowls. Add thinly sliced beef or chicken on top of the noodles.
- Pour Hot Broth:Pour the hot broth over the meat and noodles, cooking the thin slices of beef instantly.
- Garnish:Top each bowl with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and a squeeze of lime. Serve with sriracha and hoisin sauce.
Notes
- For a more authentic flavor, let the broth simmer longer to deepen the taste.
- Feel free to substitute beef with chicken or tofu for a different version of pho.
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Conclusion:
Pho is more than just a soup; it’s a cultural experience that brings warmth and comfort in every spoonful. This recipe may take some time to perfect, but the result is an incredibly delicious and satisfying meal that’s well worth the effort. With its fragrant broth, fresh herbs, and soft noodles, pho is a dish that’s sure to impress anyone. Whether you’re a pho novice or a seasoned fan, this recipe will guide you in creating an authentic bowl of pho that’s both easy and delicious to make at home.