Pho I

Authentic Pho I Recipe from Vietnam with Oxtails and Filet Mignon

Region / culture: Vietnam | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 4 hours | Servings: 6

Introduction

Pho I is a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup that is known for its flavorful broth and fresh garnishes. This dish is a popular street food in Vietnam and has gained popularity worldwide for its delicious and comforting flavors.

History

Pho I has its origins in Northern Vietnam, where it was traditionally made with beef or chicken broth, rice noodles, and various herbs and spices. The dish has evolved over the years and has become a staple in Vietnamese cuisine.

Ingredients

Broth

Sauce

Garnish

How to prepare

Boil the oxtails in water and skim off any scum from the surface.
Prepare the ginger and onion by charring them.
Combine the ingredients and bring them to a boil.
Serve the soup in bowls and garnish as desired.

Variations

Use chicken or vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a lighter option.
Add different proteins such as shrimp, tofu, or chicken to customize the dish to your liking.
Experiment with different herbs and spices to create unique flavor profiles.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To enhance the flavor of the broth, char the ginger and onion before adding them to the pot.

- Skim off any scum that rises to the surface while boiling the oxtails to ensure a clear and clean broth.

- Use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh herbs and spices, for the best flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pho I is best served hot with a side of fresh herbs, lime wedges, and chili sauce for added flavor. Enjoy it as a light and refreshing meal on its own or pair it with a side of spring rolls for a complete Vietnamese dining experience.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious Pho I is to simmer the broth slowly to allow the flavors to develop. Be patient and let the ingredients meld together for the best results.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are unable to find oxtails, you can use beef bones or beef shank as a substitute. You can also use different cuts of beef or chicken for the protein in the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

The broth for Pho I can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the broth and assemble the soup with the noodles and garnishes when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Pho I in large bowls with the garnishes arranged neatly on top. Sprinkle with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lime for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pho I pairs well with a cold Vietnamese beer or a refreshing iced tea. Enjoy it with a side of pickled vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Pho I can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Pho I contains around 300-400 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie meal option.

Carbohydrates

Pho I is a carb-heavy dish due to the rice noodles used in the recipe. Each serving typically contains around 50-60 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The broth used in Pho I is typically low in fat, making it a healthy option for those watching their fat intake. Each serving contains around 5-10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Pho I is a good source of protein, thanks to the oxtails and Filet Mignon used in the recipe. Each serving contains around 20-30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Pho I is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and calcium. The fresh herbs and vegetables used as garnishes provide a good dose of nutrients.

Alergens

Pho I contains gluten from the rice noodles and may contain soy and fish allergens in the broth. It is important to check for allergens if you have dietary restrictions.

Summary

Pho I is a nutritious and balanced meal option that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a healthy and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed by all.

Summary

Pho I is a delicious and nutritious Vietnamese noodle soup that is perfect for a comforting meal. With its flavorful broth, fresh garnishes, and tender proteins, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for a taste of Vietnam.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Pho. It was a hot summer day in the bustling streets of Hanoi, Vietnam. I was wandering through the vibrant market, taking in all the sights, sounds, and smells that surrounded me. The air was filled with the enticing aroma of herbs and spices, and my stomach growled in anticipation of a delicious meal.

As I made my way through the crowded market, I stumbled upon a small food stall tucked away in a corner. The enticing smell of simmering broth and fragrant herbs wafted through the air, drawing me in like a magnet. Curious, I approached the stall and watched as the elderly woman behind the counter skillfully prepared a steaming bowl of Pho.

I was mesmerized by the intricate process of creating this traditional Vietnamese dish. The rich broth, the tender slices of beef, the chewy rice noodles, and the fragrant herbs all came together in perfect harmony. I knew I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

I approached the elderly woman and asked her if she would be willing to teach me her recipe for Pho. She smiled warmly and welcomed me into her makeshift kitchen. I watched intently as she demonstrated each step of the cooking process, from simmering the bones for the broth to assembling the final bowl of steaming noodles.

As I watched her work, I realized that the key to a delicious bowl of Pho lies in the careful balance of flavors and the attention to detail in every step of the cooking process. The broth must be rich and flavorful, the beef tender and thinly sliced, and the noodles perfectly cooked. It was a labor of love that required patience, skill, and dedication.

After spending a few hours in the kitchen with the elderly woman, I had learned all the secrets to making a perfect bowl of Pho. She shared with me her family's recipe, which had been passed down through generations. It was a treasured heirloom that she was gracious enough to impart to me.

With the recipe in hand, I returned home and set to work recreating the flavors of Vietnam in my own kitchen. I sourced the freshest ingredients I could find, from fragrant herbs to quality beef to authentic rice noodles. I simmered the bones for hours, skimming off any impurities that rose to the surface. I toasted spices and charred onions and ginger to add depth to the broth.

As the aroma of simmering broth filled my kitchen, I felt a sense of nostalgia for the bustling markets of Hanoi and the kind elderly woman who had shared her recipe with me. I poured the steaming broth over the cooked noodles and sliced beef, topping it all off with a generous handful of herbs and a squeeze of lime.

As I took my first sip of the fragrant broth, I was transported back to that hot summer day in Hanoi. The flavors were authentic and comforting, a taste of Vietnam in every spoonful. I felt grateful for the opportunity to learn from someone who had dedicated their life to perfecting this dish, and I knew that I would cherish this recipe for years to come.

And so, that is the story of how I learned to make Pho, a dish that holds a special place in my heart. It is a reminder of the power of food to connect us to different cultures and traditions, and a testament to the joy of learning from others. I will always be grateful to the kind elderly woman who shared her recipe with me, and I will continue to pass on the tradition of making Pho to future generations.