Homemade Pho
Ingredients:
Broth:
Beef bones
Ox tail
Ginger
Onion
Star anise
Cardamom
Cloves
Cinnamons sticks
Coriander seeds
Fennel seeds
Sugar or substitute ( I used monkfruit)
Salt (I used mushroom seasoning contains salt also)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bones
Place the beef bones and oxtail in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Let boil for 5–10 minutes to release impurities. Drain, rinse the bones under cold water, and return them to a clean pot filled with fresh water. Bring back to a boil over high heat. (This step ensures a clear broth.)
Step 2: Char the Aromatics
Halve the onion and slice the ginger lengthwise. Place both directly on a hot stovetop, grill, or dry skillet and char for 5–10 minutes until fragrant and lightly blackened. Add them to the pot.
Step 3: Toast the Spices
In a small skillet, toast the star anise, cardamom pods, cloves, cinnamon sticks, coriander seeds, and fennel seeds over medium heat for a few minutes until aromatic. Transfer them to a piece of cheesecloth, tie into a sachet, and drop it into the pot.
Step 4: Season the Broth
Once the pot returns to a boil, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Season lightly with salt and sugar (start with 1–2 tablespoons each) and adjust gradually throughout cooking.
Step 5: Simmer Slowly
Allow the broth to simmer uncovered for at least 3 hours, or longer for deeper flavor. Skim off any scum or foam that rises to the surface using a ladle.
Step 6: Strain and Finish
When the broth is ready, remove and discard the spice sachet, onion, ginger, and bones. Strain the broth through a fine mesh strainer into a clean pot. Add the oxtail back to the broth for richness. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or sugar as needed.
Step 7: Assemble the Bowls
Prepare fillings of your choice. Traditional options include rice noodles, thinly sliced beef, shrimp, or meatballs, paired with bean sprouts, Thai basil, cilantro, onion slices, chili peppers, and lime wedges. Hoisin, sriracha, chili oil, or fried garlic can be added for extra flavor.
Step 8: Serve
Divide noodles (or bean sprouts, if skipping noodles) into bowls, ladle the hot broth over, and top with your choice of proteins and garnishes. Serve immediately.
Quick Option: If short on time, you can make the broth in a pressure cooker. Cook on high pressure for at least 1 hour, then strain and season as above.