Spicy Beef Pho Recipe

Introduction:

Spicy Beef Pho, a Vietnamese noodle soup, is renowned for its rich broth, tender beef slices, and aromatic spices. This recipe adds an extra kick of heat to the traditional Pho, making it a flavorful and satisfying dish. Follow these steps to create your own Spicy Beef Pho at home.

Ingredients:

For the Broth:

• 1 large onion, halved and unpeeled
• 1 4-inch piece of ginger, halved lengthwise
• 3-4 lbs beef bones (marrow and knuckle bones)
• 1 lb beef brisket or chuck, thinly sliced
• 3-star anise
• 3 whole cloves
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 2 cardamom pods
• 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• ¼ cup fish sauce
• 1-2 tablespoons sugar
• Salt to taste

For the Spicy Element:

• 1-2 Thai bird chilies, sliced (adjust to taste)
• Sriracha sauce to taste

For Serving:

• Flat rice noodles, cooked according to package instructions
• Bean sprouts
• Fresh basil leaves
• Lime wedges
• Hoisin sauce

Instructions:

1. Char the Onion and Ginger:

• Preheat your broiler. Place the onion and ginger on a baking sheet and char under the broiler for about 15-20 minutes until they are well-charred.

2. Prepare the Broth:

• Rinse the beef bones under cold water, then place them in a large stockpot. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Boil vigorously for 10 minutes, then discard the water and rinse the bones.
• Add the charred onion and ginger to the pot along with the beef brisket or chuck, star anise, cloves, cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, and coriander seeds.
• Toast the spices in a dry pan until fragrant, then add them to the pot. Add vegetable oil, fish sauce, and sugar.
• Bring the pot to a simmer and let it cook for at least 1.5 to 2 hours. Skim off any impurities that rise to the surface. Season with salt to taste.

3. Prepare the Spicy Element:

• In a small bowl, combine sliced Thai bird chilies with Sriracha sauce. Adjust the heat level to your liking.

4. Assemble the Bowls:

• Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions.
• Place a handful of cooked noodles into each serving bowl. Top with thinly sliced beef.
• Ladle the hot broth over the noodles and beef, allowing the heat to cook the meat.
• Serve the bowls with bean sprouts, fresh basil leaves, lime wedges, hoisin sauce, and the prepared spicy element on the side.

5. Enjoy:

• Mix in the fresh herbs, squeeze lime over your bowl, and add the spicy element according to your taste.
• Savor the rich and spicy flavors of your homemade Spicy Beef Pho.

Conclusion:

Spicy Beef Pho is a soul-warming dish that combines the comfort of traditional Pho with an extra kick of heat. Follow this recipe to craft a bowlful of goodness that will surely satisfy your craving for a bold and flavorful noodle soup. Customize the spice level to your liking and relish the delightful symphony of flavors in each slurp.