Authentic Vietnamese Beef Pho Recipe – Fragrant, Flavorful & Comforting

If you’re craving a soul-warming dish that’s as aromatic as it is delicious, look no further than Vietnamese Pho. This beloved noodle soup is a culinary treasure of Vietnam, featuring silky rice noodles, thinly sliced beef, and a deeply fragrant broth infused with spices, lemongrass, and fresh herbs.

What makes pho so special is the customization—it’s traditionally served with a platter of garnishes like basil, cilantro, bean sprouts, lime, and chili, allowing everyone to season their bowl just the way they like it. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family meal or impressing guests with a restaurant-worthy dish, this homemade beef pho recipe delivers big flavor with surprisingly simple steps.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic flavors – deep, aromatic broth infused with spices and lemongrass.
Customizable – everyone can garnish their pho exactly how they like it.
Healthy & hearty – packed with fresh herbs, lean protein, and nourishing broth.
Comfort in a bowl – perfect for cold days or when you need a cozy, satisfying meal.

Vietnamese Pho Recipe

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Category

Soup, Main Dish

Cuisine

Vietnamese

Servings

6

Prep Time

30 minutes

Cook Time

65 minutes

Calories

528

Make authentic Vietnamese Beef Pho at home with fragrant lemongrass broth, rice noodles, and thinly sliced beef. Fresh, customizable, and ready in under 2 hours.

Author:

Guiseppe

Ingredients

• 4 quarts beef broth
• 1 large onion, sliced into rings
• 6 slices fresh ginger root
• 1 stalk lemongrass, trimmed and smashed
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
• 2 (8-ounce) packages dried rice noodles
• 1 pound sirloin tip, thinly sliced (almost see-through)
• 3 tablespoons fish sauce
• ½ tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 dash hot pepper sauce
• Garnishes (served on the side):
• 8 oz bean sprouts
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1 cup fresh mint leaves
• 1 cup loosely packed cilantro leaves
• 3 fresh jalapeños, sliced
• 2 limes, cut into wedges

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Directions

1. In a large pot, combine beef broth, onion, ginger, lemongrass, cinnamon, and peppercorns.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 hour to let flavors infuse.
3. About 15 minutes before the broth is done, soak rice noodles in hot water until softened.
4. Drain well and set aside.
5. Place bean sprouts, basil, mint, cilantro, jalapeños, and lime wedges on a platter for serving.
6. Divide noodles among six large soup bowls.
7. Place raw beef slices on top of noodles.
8. Ladle the steaming broth directly over the beef and noodles. The thinly sliced beef will cook instantly.
9. Serve pho with garnishes and sauces (fish sauce, hoisin, hot pepper sauce) so each person can flavor their bowl to taste.

Recipe Note

Chef Tips

• Ask your butcher to slice the beef super thin—it should be nearly see-through.
  
• Add star anise or cloves to the broth for extra authentic flavor.
  
• Use fresh rice noodles if available for the best texture.
  
• Skim off any foam while the broth simmers for a clearer finish.
  

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Vietnamese iced coffee for a traditional meal.
  
• Serve as a main dish with a side of fresh spring rolls.
  
• Offer extra lime wedges and chili oil for spice lovers.
  

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store broth and noodles separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Keep garnishes fresh in the fridge.
  
• Freezer: Freeze broth (without noodles or herbs) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
  
• Reheating: Reheat broth until boiling, then pour over freshly soaked noodles and beef. Add garnishes just before serving.
  

Nutrition

Nutrition

Serving Size

1 serving

per serving

Calories

528

Amount/Serving % Daily Value

Carbs

73 grams

27%

Protein

27 grams

54%

Fat

14 grams

18%