Vietnamese Pho Recipe
Rich, aromatic beef broth with rice noodles, herbs, and thinly sliced beef
By Sarah Mitchell • June 14, 2026
Pho is Vietnam's iconic noodle soup — a fragrant broth perfumed with star anise, cinnamon, cloves, and charred ginger, ladled over slippery rice noodles and paper-thin slices of beef that cook in the hot broth.
This simplified version uses a quick-char technique for the aromatics and builds the broth in an hour rather than traditional all-day simmering.
The table condiments are essential: hoisin, sriracha, lime, Thai basil, bean sprouts, and jalapeños.
About This Recipe
"Vietnamese Pho" is a Dinner recipe that brings beef broth, beef sirloin, thinly sliced, flat rice noodles, onion, halved and fresh ginger together into a flavorful, well-balanced dish. Rated Medium and ready in about 75 minutes, this recipe fits easily into a busy schedule. It serves 6 and works equally well for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. The Vietnamese inspiration behind this dish balances classic techniques with clean, vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 quarts beef broth
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 8 oz flat rice noodles
- 1 large onion, halved
- 3-inch piece fresh ginger
- 3 whole star anise
- 1 stick cinnamon
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 1/2 cup Thai basil leaves
- 2 whole limes, quartered
- 2 whole jalapeños, sliced
Instructions
- 1
Char onion and ginger under the broiler until blackened, about 5 minutes per side.
- 2
Simmer broth with charred aromatics, star anise, cinnamon, and fish sauce for 45 minutes.
- 3
Strain broth, discarding solids. Return to a gentle simmer.
- 4
Cook rice noodles according to package. Divide among bowls.
- 5
Layer raw beef slices over noodles. Ladle boiling broth over to cook the meat.
- 6
Serve with bean sprouts, basil, lime, jalapeños, hoisin, and sriracha.
Expert Tips
For the best result, use the freshest, highest-quality ingredients you can find. Beef broth is the heart of this dish, so choose it with care. Read the recipe through before you start and prep all ingredients in advance (mise en place) so the cooking process is smooth. Stovetop work especially well for this preparation. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and acid at the end to make the flavors pop.
What To Serve With This
"Vietnamese Pho" is a versatile Dinner dish that pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, crusty bread or dinner rolls and classic Vietnamese sides. Choose at least one fresh and one hearty side to create a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Vietnamese Pho keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating to preserve texture. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the dish thickens in the fridge. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to make Vietnamese Pho?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep and 60 minutes of cooking, for a total of roughly 75 minutes. It serves 6 and is rated Medium.
How do I store leftover Vietnamese Pho?
Store leftover Vietnamese Pho in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop for best results.
Can I make Vietnamese Pho ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Vietnamese Pho in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving to preserve the best texture and flavor.
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