Phở Thảo Recipe

Introduction

Phở Thảo is a delightful twist on the traditional Vietnamese phở, offering a unique blend of flavors and ingredients that reflect both cultural tradition and culinary innovation. Born from the culinary diversity of Vietnam, Phở Thảo incorporates influences from both northern and southern styles of phở, providing a rich and aromatic experience. Historically, phở was introduced in the early 20th century in Northern Vietnam. It has since become a staple in Vietnamese cuisine, representing the nation's adaptability and love for rich, savory broths.

Ingredients

• Beef bones
• Chicken bones
• Cinnamon sticks
• Star anise
• Ginger (2-inch piece, unpeeled)
• Onion (halved)
• Fish sauce
• Sugar
• Salt
• Rice noodles
• Sirloin steak (thinly sliced)
• Bean sprouts
• Thai basil
• Cilantro
• Lime (cut into wedges)
• Chili peppers (optional)
• Hoisin sauce
• Sriracha sauce

Preparation

Preparing the Broth

1. Rinse beef bones and chicken bones under cold water and place them in a large pot.
2. Cover with water and bring to a boil, parboiling the bones for 5 minutes.
3. Remove the bones and rinse again under cold water. This step helps achieve a clear broth.
4. In another pot, char ginger and onion halves on high heat until blackened, around 6-7 minutes.
5. Add the bones back to the pot along with charred ginger, onion, cinnamon sticks, and star anise.
6. Fill the pot with enough water to cover the bones by about 1 inch.
7. Add a tablespoon of salt.
8. Simmer the broth gently for 4-6 hours, occasionally skimming off any impurities from the surface.

Final Seasoning

1. After simmering, strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids, leaving a clear liquid.
2. Add fish sauce and sugar to taste.
3. Make adjustments, adding more salt or water as necessary to achieve your preferred flavor.

Preparing the Noodles and Garnishes

1. Soak rice noodles in warm water for 30 minutes.
2. Boil noodles for 1-2 minutes until tender, then drain and rinse under cold water.
3. Slice sirloin steak thinly and set aside.
4. Wash and prepare bean sprouts, Thai basil, cilantro, and lime wedges.
5. Optional: slice chili peppers for added heat.

Assembling the Phở

1. Place a serving of prepared rice noodles into each bowl.
2. Add a few slices of sirloin steak on top of the noodles. The hot broth will cook the meat.
3. Ladle hot broth over the noodles and beef, completely submerging them.
4. Top with garnishes: bean sprouts, Thai basil, cilantro, and slices of chili, if desired.
5. Serve with lime wedges, hoisin sauce, and sriracha sauce on the side.

How to Enjoy

Phở Thảo is best enjoyed fresh and hot. The steaming broth will cook the beef, filling your bowl with enticing aromas. Adjust the flavor by adding fish sauce, hoisin sauce, or sriracha sauce as needed. Squeeze a wedge of lime for a refreshing citrus tang. For a balanced bite, scoop a bit of everything onto your spoon, ensuring each mouthful is a perfect harmony of noodles, meat, broth, and fresh herbs.