Recipe: Vietnamese Grilled Beef Pho Noodle Bowls

Introduction

Vietnamese cuisine is known for its fresh and vibrant flavors, and one dish that truly captures the essence of this cuisine is Grilled Beef Pho Noodle Bowls. This delicious and hearty dish combines tender grilled beef, aromatic herbs, rice noodles, and a flavorful broth. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making this traditional Vietnamese dish step by step.

Ingredients

For the broth:

• 2 pounds beef bones
• 1 onion, halved
• 3-inch piece of ginger, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, crushed
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 2 star anise
• 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
• 1 tablespoon fennel seeds
• 6 cups water
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• Salt, to taste

For the grilled beef:

• 1 pound beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the noodle bowls:

• 8 ounces rice noodles
• Bean sprouts, for garnish
• Fresh herbs (Thai basil, cilantro, mint), for garnish
• Green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving
• Chili sauce or Sriracha, for serving (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the broth

In a large pot, add the beef bones, onion, ginger, garlic, cinnamon sticks, star anise, coriander seeds, and fennel seeds. Pour in the water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to develop. Skim off any impurities that rise to the surface. Add fish sauce and salt to taste.

Step 2: Marinate the beef

In a bowl, combine soy sauce, fish sauce, honey, minced garlic, and vegetable oil. Add the sliced beef and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.

Step 3: Grill the beef

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the beef from the marinade and grill for about 2 minutes per side or until cooked to your desired level of doneness. Set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the rice noodles

Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent them from sticking together.

Step 5: Assemble the noodle bowls

In individual serving bowls, divide the cooked rice noodles. Top with the grilled beef slices. Ladle the hot broth over the noodles and beef. Garnish with bean sprouts, fresh herbs, green onions, and lime wedges. Serve with chili sauce or Sriracha on the side for those who prefer a spicy kick.

Conclusion

Vietnamese Grilled Beef Pho Noodle Bowls are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will transport you to the streets of Vietnam. With its rich broth, succulent grilled beef, and fresh garnishes, this dish is a perfect representation of Vietnamese cuisine. So, gather your ingredients and follow this recipe to create an authentic Vietnamese dining experience in the comfort of your own home.