Authentic Vietnamese Pho Recipe with Tender Beef Brisket

Pho Chin Nam

Pho, a beloved Vietnamese dish, is renowned for its rich and aromatic broth, tender meat, and fragrant herbs. In this recipe, we will guide you through the process of making delicious Pho Chin Nam, featuring flavorful beef brisket that melts in your mouth. Get ready to indulge in a bowl of comforting and authentic Pho!

Ingredients:

  • 500g beef brisket
  • 2 onions, peeled and halved
  • 3-inch piece of ginger, sliced
  • 5 star anise
  • 3 cloves
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
  • 1 tablespoon fennel seeds
  • 4-5 cardamom pods
  • 4 liters water
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 300g rice noodles
  • Bean sprouts, Thai basil, cilantro, lime wedges, and sliced chili for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Beef Brisket:
    • Place the beef brisket in a pot of boiling water and blanch for 3-4 minutes.
    • Remove the beef and rinse under cold water to get rid of impurities.
    • Set aside.
  2. Toast the Spices:
    • In a dry pan over medium heat, toast the star anise, cloves, cinnamon stick, coriander seeds, fennel seeds, and cardamom pods until fragrant.
    • Transfer the toasted spices to a spice bag or wrap them in a cheesecloth.
  3. Prepare the Broth:
    • In a large pot, add the blanched beef brisket, onions, ginger, and the spice bag.
    • Pour in 4 liters of water and bring to a boil.
    • Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.
    • Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2-3 hours until the beef brisket is tender and the broth is flavorful.
    • Remove the beef brisket from the broth and let it cool before slicing it thinly.
  4. Season the Broth:
    • Add salt and sugar to the broth, adjusting the seasoning to your taste.
    • Keep the broth simmering on low heat.
  5. Prepare the Rice Noodles:
    • Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions.
    • Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking.
  6. Assemble the Pho:
    • Place a portion of rice noodles into each serving bowl.
    • Top with thinly sliced beef brisket.
    • Ladle the hot broth over the noodles and beef.
    • Garnish with bean sprouts, Thai basil, cilantro, lime wedges, and sliced chili.
  7. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Serve the Pho Chin Nam immediately while it’s hot.
    • Squeeze fresh lime juice over the bowl before eating.
    • Mix the noodles, beef, and garnishes together to fully enjoy the flavors.
    • Adjust the taste with additional fish sauce, chili sauce, or hoisin sauce according to your preference.

Conclusion: Now you have the recipe to create a delightful bowl of Pho Chin Nam at home. This classic Vietnamese dish will transport you to the bustling streets of Hanoi with its tantalizing aroma and exquisite flavors. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and savor the authentic taste of Pho in the comfort of your own kitchen. Enjoy!