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Dorothy Thomas

Pho Soup Recipe Easy

A simplified version of the classic Vietnamese Pho soup, packed with aromatic flavors and tender noodles. Perfect for a cozy meal!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 6 cups Beef or chicken broth
  • medium 1 Onion 
  • cloves 3-4 Garlic 
  • piece (2-inch) 1 Ginger 
  • stick 1 Cinnamon
  • stars 2 Star anise
  • pods 3 Cardamom 
  • 1 tbsp Sugar
  • 1 tbsp Fish sauce
  • 8 oz Rice noodles 
  • 200g Thinly sliced beef
  • cup 1 Bean sprouts
  • 1 Lime 
  • to taste Fresh cilantro, Thai basil, mint
  • to taste Sriracha or hoisin sauce (optional)

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • strainer
  • tongs, knife
  •  Cutting Board

Method
 

  1. In a large pot, add broth, onion, garlic, ginger, cinnamon, star anise, and cardamom.
  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes. Strain to remove solids.
  3. Stir in sugar and fish sauce. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  4. Soak rice noodles in hot water for 8-10 minutes until soft. Drain and rinse.
  5. Divide noodles into bowls. Top with raw beef slices.
  6. Ladle hot broth over the beef (it will cook thinly sliced beef instantly).
  7. Add bean sprouts, herbs, and a squeeze of lime.
  8. Serve with Sriracha or hoisin sauce on the side.

Notes

  • Vegetarian Option: Use tofu and vegetable broth, omit fish sauce.
  • Make Ahead: Broth can be made 1-2 days ahead for deeper flavor.
  • Shortcut: Use pre-made pho spice packets if short on time.