Savory Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup) You Can Master at Home
Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team
The first whiff of this aromatic broth brings a rush of comfort and flavors that transport me straight to the bustling streets of Vietnam. Pho, with its delicate balance of spiced beef and fresh herbs, is more than just a meal; it s a soothing ritual that warms the soul. I discovered this gem one rainy evening when I craved something hearty yet fragrant, and it turned out to be a game changer in my kitchen.
This effortlessly elegant Vietnamese noodle soup might sound complex, but you ll be pleased to know it has a surprisingly simple method behind its deep, delicious flavors. With a few quality ingredients and a little patience, you can create a steaming bowl of Pho that rivals any restaurant right at home! Not to mention, it s the perfect dish to impress guests or indulge in on a cozy night in. Let s dive into recreating this culinary masterpiece together!
Why will you love Pho?
Aromatic broth: The rich, simmered beef bone broth fills your kitchen with enticing, mouthwatering scents, creating an inviting atmosphere.
Customizable delight: Add your favorite toppings like fresh herbs, bean sprouts, or spicy sauces to make each bowl uniquely yours.
Nutrient-rich comfort: Packed with protein and vitamins, this broth is not just delicious but nourishing, making it a perfect feel-good meal.
Make ahead: With a bit of prep, you can easily make a big batch and store the leftovers for countless cozy meals throughout the week.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, Pho is sure to impress with its vibrant presentation and incredible flavors.
Pho Ingredients
For the Broth
- Beef soup bones (shank and knee) 4 pounds for a rich and flavorful stock that is the heart of Pho.
- Onion 1 medium, unpeeled and cut in half; roasting enhances its sweetness for a deeper broth flavor.
- Fresh ginger 5 slices add a warm, aromatic note that complements the beef beautifully.
- Salt 1 tablespoon to season the broth and balance the flavors.
- Star anise 2 pods; these fragrant spices give Pho its signature, warm, and slightly sweet taste.
- Fish sauce 2 ½ tablespoons for that umami kick that rounds out the broth s flavor.
- Water 4 quarts, serving as the base for simmering and extracting flavors from the ingredients.
For the Noodles
- Dried rice noodles 1 (8 ounce) package; soak and cook to achieve the perfect chewy texture that soaks up the broth.
For the Toppings
- Beef top sirloin 1 ½ pounds, thinly sliced; select this cut for tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef in each bowl.
- Cilantro ½ cup, chopped; fresh herbs elevate the dish with their bright flavor and color.
- Green onion 1 tablespoon, chopped for an extra burst of freshness.
- Bean sprouts 1 ½ cups add a delicious crunch and refreshing contrast to the warm broth.
- Thai basil 1 bunch; this fragrant herb adds a unique flavor profile to your Pho.
- Lime 1 medium, cut into 4 wedges for a zesty kick that brightens the dish.
- Hoisin sauce (Optional) ¼ cup for a sweet and savory glaze that can be drizzled on top.
- Chile-garlic sauce (such as Sriracha) (Optional) ¼ cup for those who like to turn up the heat in their Pho experience.
How to Make Pho
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Gather ingredients: Start by arranging all the ingredients on your kitchen counter. This makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable, with everything within arm s reach.
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Preheat oven: Set your oven to 425 °F (220 °C). This high temperature will roast the beef bones perfectly, drawing out rich flavors essential for the broth.
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Roast beef bones: On a baking sheet, place the beef bones and roast them in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until they re nicely browned. This step adds depth to your broth.
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Roast onion: On another baking sheet, place the onion halves, and roast on a different rack for about 45 minutes, until blackened and soft. This enhances the sweetness in the broth.
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Combine in pot: Transfer the roasted beef bones and onion halves to a large stockpot. The combination of these flavors will form the base of your Pho broth.
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Add spices: Into the pot, add ginger slices, salt, star anise, fish sauce, and 4 quarts of water. Bring this mixture to a boil, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Simmer for depth: Reduce the heat to low, and let the broth simmer for 6 to 10 hours. The longer you simmer, the richer the flavor will be, so don t rush this step!
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Strain broth: Once done, carefully strain the broth into a saucepan and set it aside. This will remove any solids and leave you with a clear, delicious broth.
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Soak noodles: In a large bowl, place the dried rice noodles and cover them with room temperature water. Let them soak for 1 hour, then drain. This technique makes them soft and pliable for your soup.
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Heat broth: When the noodles are ready, gently heat the reserved broth by bringing it to a simmer. The warm broth will be the star of your Pho dish.
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Boil noodles: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the soaked noodles in the boiling water for 1 minute, then drain. They should be chewy and ready to absorb the broth.
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Assemble bowls: Divide the noodles evenly among 4 serving bowls. Top each bowl with thinly sliced sirloin, chopped cilantro, and green onion for that fresh burst of flavor.
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Add broth: Ladle the hot broth over the toppings in each bowl. Give it a gentle stir and let it sit for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the beef to partially cook through.
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Serve it up: Present your Pho with fresh bean sprouts, Thai basil, lime wedges, hoisin sauce, and chile-garlic sauce on the side. This gives everyone the chance to customize their bowl!
Optional: Squeeze lime over your bowl for a zesty touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Pho Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to make this beloved dish your own with these creative and tasty options!
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Vegetarian: Substitute beef bones with vegetable broth and add mushrooms for a hearty umami flavor without the meat.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free rice noodles instead of traditional ones, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful dish.
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Spicy Boost: Add sliced jalapeños or fresh chili peppers to the garnish for those who crave an extra kick in their bowl!
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Herb Adventure: Swap out Thai basil for fresh mint or cilantro for a different herbal note that s just as refreshing.
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Meat Variety: Experiment with brisket or flank steak instead of top sirloin for a variation that brings a slightly different texture and flavor.
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Broth Depth: Incorporate a dash of soy sauce or miso paste to amplify the savory notes of your broth, giving it a unique twist.
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Coconut Cream: For a rich and creamy touch, drizzle a bit of coconut cream on top before serving; it adds blissful richness to your Pho.
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Pickled Veggies: Top your Pho with pickled radishes or carrots for a tangy contrast that adds both texture and flavor!
How to Store and Freeze Pho
Fridge: Keep leftover Pho in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For best flavor, store the broth, noodles, and toppings separately until serving.
Freezer: Freeze the broth in portions using freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, slowly warm the broth on the stove until simmering, then cook the noodles fresh. This keeps them from becoming soggy and helps restore the original texture of your Pho.
Storage Tip: For longer shelf life, consider freezing toppings like chopped herbs separately in ice cube trays with a little broth for easy flavor additions later!
Make Ahead Options
These comforting bowls of Pho are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the broth up to 3 days in advance; simply allow it to cool, then refrigerate in an airtight container. The soaked rice noodles can be prepared the night before and kept in fresh water in the fridge. When you re ready to enjoy your Pho, just heat the broth on the stove until simmering, cook the noodles in boiling water for about 1 minute, and assemble your bowls with thinly sliced beef and toppings. This way, you ll savor the same hearty, aromatic flavors with minimal effort just as delicious, but saved for when you need them most!
What to Serve with Pho?
Warm up your dining experience with delightful pairings that enhance the aromatic flavors of your homemade broth.
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Fresh Spring Rolls: These delicate rolls filled with shrimp and fresh vegetables offer a crisp, refreshing contrast to the warm, savory Pho. Each bite complements the soup, adding texture and brightness.
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Crispy Egg Rolls: Their crunchy exterior and savory filling provide a satisfying crunch that balances Pho s softer elements. Serve them with a sweet dipping sauce for added flavor!
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Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice provides a neutral base that absorbs the broth s flavors beautifully. A scoop of rice can make your meal even heartier and comforting.
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Pickled Vegetables: A side of pickled carrots and daikon adds a tangy crunch, cutting through the richness of the broth. Their bright color and flavor liven up your plate.
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Sesame Noodles: A chilled bowl of sesame noodles dressed in a light sauce pairs wonderfully with the warm broth. They offer a nutty profile that complements the soup.
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Thai Iced Tea: The creamy, sweet flavors of this tea contrast with the savory Pho, making for an exceptional drink pairing. Serve it over ice for a refreshing touch.
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Mango Sticky Rice: A sweet treat to finish your meal, its sweetness balances the savory notes of your Pho. The creaminess of the coconut milk creates a delightful ending.
These pairings will enhance your cooking experience and ensure every bowl of Pho is a culinary masterpiece!
Expert Tips for Pho
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Quality Bones: Use fresh beef soup bones for the richest flavor. Avoid pre-packaged bones, as they often lack depth in your Pho broth.
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Simmer Longer: Aim for a simmer of at least 8 hours for a fuller flavor. Rushing this step can lead to a bland broth.
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Noodle Technique: Soak your rice noodles before boiling to maintain their chewy texture. If they re overcooked, they can become mushy and lose their appeal in Pho.
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Herb Harmony: Experiment with herbs! Fresh basil and cilantro elevate your bowl. Just be cautious not to overpower the dish s delicate flavors.
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Customize Wisely: When adding sauces like hoisin or Sriracha, start with a little. The goal is to enhance, not mask, the beautiful flavors of your Pho.
Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup) Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best beef soup bones?
Absolutely! For the richest flavor, select fresh beef soup bones that have plenty of marrow and connective tissues, such as shank and knee bones. Look for bones with a good amount of visible marrow and avoid any with dark spots all over, which could indicate spoilage.
What is the best way to store leftover Pho?
Very important! Store leftover Pho in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For optimal flavor, keep the broth, noodles, and toppings separate. This way, when you re ready to enjoy it again, reheating is easier and helps maintain the original texture and taste.
Can I freeze leftover Pho broth?
Absolutely! Freeze your Pho broth in portions using freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply place the container in the fridge overnight. When ready to use, heat it gently on the stove until simmering. This method preserves your delicious flavors brilliantly!
What should I do if my broth doesn t taste as rich as expected?
Don t worry! If you find your broth lacks richness, there are a few tricks. Try adding a bit more salt or fish sauce during cooking, as they enhance flavor. If it s not simmered long enough, consider adding fresh ingredients like roasted bones or an additional star anise to deepen the taste. Simmering can take 6 to 10 hours, so giving it more time generally yields a richer broth.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! If serving to friends or family, check for allergies to common ingredients like fish sauce or beef. For those avoiding gluten, ensure the rice noodles used are gluten-free. Additionally, if you re concerned about sodium intake, using low-sodium broth can be a fantastic alternative for a heart-healthy option.
Can I make Pho vegetarian?
Absolutely! To create a vegetarian version of Pho, swap the beef bones for a mix of roasted vegetable and mushroom broth. Use a variety of fresh herbs like basil and cilantro for flavor, and consider adding mushrooms, tofu, or tempeh for protein. This way, you can enjoy a flavorful, plant-based Pho that s just as comforting!



