Authentic Vietnamese Pho Bo Tai Recipe

Pho Bo Tai, also known as Vietnamese Rare Beef Noodle Soup, is a beloved dish that showcases the rich flavors and aromatic spices of Vietnamese cuisine. This traditional soup features tender slices of rare beef, rice noodles, and a fragrant broth that is simmered with herbs and spices. In this recipe, we will guide you through the process of making a delicious bowl of Pho Bo Tai that will transport you to the streets of Vietnam.

Ingredients:

For the broth:

• 2 kg beef bones (marrow and knuckle bones)
• 1 kg beef oxtail (optional)
• 2 onions, charred
• 5-inch piece of ginger, charred
• 4 star anise
• 3 cinnamon sticks
• 5 cloves
• 2 cardamom pods
• 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
• 1 tablespoon fennel seeds
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar

For the soup:

• 400g rice noodles
• 400g beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• Fresh herbs (Thai basil, cilantro, mint)
• Bean sprouts
• Lime wedges
• Sliced chili peppers (optional)
• Hoisin sauce
• Sriracha sauce

Instructions:

1. Prepare the broth:
   • In a large pot, add the beef bones, oxtail (if using), onions, and ginger. Char them over an open flame or under the broiler until slightly blackened.
   • Fill the pot with enough water to cover the bones and bring it to a boil. Boil for 10 minutes, then drain and rinse the bones to remove any impurities.
   • Clean the pot and return the bones, onions, and ginger to it.
   • Add the star anise, cinnamon sticks, cloves, cardamom pods, coriander seeds, fennel seeds, salt, fish sauce, and sugar to the pot.
   • Fill the pot with water, about 6-8 liters, and bring it to a boil. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.
   • Reduce the heat to low and let the broth simmer for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to extract the flavors.
2. Prepare the toppings and noodles:
   • Soak the rice noodles in cold water for 30 minutes, or until they are soft but still slightly firm.
   • Slice the beef sirloin into thin, bite-sized pieces.
   • Prepare the fresh herbs by washing and separating the leaves.
   • Rinse the bean sprouts and cut the lime into wedges.
   • Set aside the chili peppers, hoisin sauce, and sriracha sauce for serving.
3. Assemble the Pho:
   • Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any solids. Return the broth to the pot and bring it to a gentle simmer.
   • Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions and divide them into serving bowls.
   • Arrange a few slices of raw beef on top of the noodles.
   • Ladle the hot broth over the beef and noodles, ensuring they are fully submerged. The hot broth will cook the beef.
   • Serve the bowls of Pho with a plate of fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime wedges, chili peppers (if using), hoisin sauce, and sriracha sauce on the side.
   • Each diner can customize their bowl by adding herbs, sprouts, lime juice, and sauces to taste.

Enjoy the aromatic and flavorful Pho Bo Tai, a classic Vietnamese dish that will warm your soul and satisfy your cravings for authentic cuisine