Beef pho

Discover this authentic Vietnamese Beef pho recipe — a satisfying weeknight dish that's an impressive dish that showcases your cooking skills. Made with beef stock, onion, ginger and 14 more fresh ingredients, this recipe guides you through 3 detailed steps to create a truly memorable meal. Ready in about 40 minutes from start to finish. Whether you're cooking for family, friends, or a special occasion, this vietnamese classic is sure to impress.

Hard
Updated March 14, 2026
1 views

20

Prep Time (min)

30

Cook Time (min)

4

servings

500

Calories/serving

Hard

Difficulty

Beef pho

Ingredients

Servings:
4
  • 1 L Beef Stock
  • 1 large Onion
  • 1 Large Chopped Ginger
  • 1 Cinnamon Stick
  • 2 Star Anise
  • 1 tsp Coriander Seeds
  • 1 teaspoon Cloves
  • 225 g Sirloin steak
  • 1 tsp Palm Sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Fish Sauce
  • 1 ½ tbsp Soy Sauce
  • 200 g Rice Noodles
  • 2 sliced Spring Onions
  • 1 small Birds-eye Chillies
  • Handful Basil
  • Handful Coriander
  • 1 Lime

Instructions

3 steps · ~30 minutes total

  1. Step 1

    Tip the beef stock along with 500ml of water into a large saucepan. Sit the onion and ginger in a frying pan over a high heat and char on all sides, around 3-5 mins (you can also do this under your grill). Once charred, add to the beef stock. In the same pan, toast the spices for 2-3 mins and once they begin to smell fragrant, add them to the beef stock as well. Bring the stock to the boil, then turn to a simmer and cook for 30mins before straining.

    15 minutes
    Use a large pot to prevent boiling over. Add salt to the water for extra flavor.
  2. Step 2

    Meanwhile, cut the fat from the steak and wrap in cling film, then put into the freezer for 15 mins – this will make your steak really easy to slice! Slice it thinly, then cover with cling film again and pop into the fridge.

    5 minutes
    Keep your fingers curled under (claw grip) for safety when cutting.
  3. Step 3

    Taste the beef stock and use the palm sugar, fish sauce and soy to season. Cook the noodles according to package instructions and split between two bowls, topping each with the sliced beef. Bring the stock to the boil and then pour into the bowls (the heat will cook the beef). Top each with the spring onions, chilli slices and herbs. Serve with the lime wedges to squeeze over.

    10 minutes
    Keep your fingers curled under (claw grip) for safety when cutting.

💡 Tips & Tricks

This Vietnamese recipe for Beef pho is best served fresh. Adjust seasoning to your taste.

🔄 Variations

• Protein swap: Try substituting the main protein with chicken, tofu, or shrimp for a different take on this dish. • Spice level: Adjust the heat to your preference — add more chili for extra kick, or reduce it for a milder version. • Gluten-free: Swap regular pasta for gluten-free alternatives or zucchini noodles. • Vegetarian: Replace meat with mushrooms, chickpeas, or your favorite plant-based protein. • Fusion twist: Combine elements of Vietnamese cuisine with your local favorites for a creative fusion dish.

Storage & Reheating

❄️

Refrigerator

Up to 3 days in an airtight container

🧊

Freezer

Up to 2 months — thaw overnight in fridge

🔥

Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

What to Serve With

Complete your vietnamese meal with these perfect pairings:

🍽️Steamed rice
🍽️Fresh spring rolls
🍽️Vietnamese iced coffee

About This Dish

Beef pho is a beloved dish from Vietnamese cuisine, originating in Vietnam. With a total preparation time of about 50 minutes, it makes for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated for its freshness, lightness, and balance. It's characterized by the generous use of fresh herbs, minimal use of oil, and emphasis on fresh ingredients.

This recipe is rated hard difficulty and uses 17 ingredients. Experienced cooks will appreciate the technique involved.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best cuts for Beef Pho are brisket, flank, or sirloin as they become tender and flavorful when cooked in the broth.

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Nutrition Facts

4 serving(s) per recipe

Serving size1 serving
Calories500kcal
Total Fat23g
Sodium515mg
Total Carbohydrates55g
Dietary Fiber3g
Protein60g

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

Recipe Details

CuisineVietnamese
CategoryNoodles
CountryVietnam