Introduction:
Beef Meatball Pho, a Vietnamese delicacy, offers a harmonious blend of flavors, textures, and aromas. This comforting noodle soup features tender beef meatballs infused with spices, served in a fragrant broth alongside rice noodles and fresh herbs. Follow this simple recipe to recreate this culinary masterpiece at home.
Ingredients:
- For the Beef Meatballs:
- 500g ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- For the Broth:
- 2 liters beef broth
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 slices ginger
- 2 star anise
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 cloves
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt, to taste
- For Serving:
- 400g rice noodles, cooked according to package instructions
- Fresh herbs (cilantro, Thai basil, mint)
- Bean sprouts
- Lime wedges
- Chili slices
- Hoisin sauce
- Sriracha sauce
Instructions:
- Prepare the Beef Meatballs:
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, fish sauce, sugar, black pepper, salt, egg, and breadcrumbs.
- Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the meatballs on a tray and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to firm up.
- Prepare the Broth:
- In a large pot, add beef broth, sliced onion, ginger slices, star anise, cinnamon sticks, cloves, fish sauce, sugar, and salt.
- Bring the broth to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
- Strain the broth to remove the solids and return it to the pot.
- Cook the Beef Meatballs:
- Bring the strained broth back to a gentle simmer.
- Carefully drop the meatballs into the simmering broth.
- Cook the meatballs for about 10-15 minutes until they are cooked through and tender.
- Assemble the Pho:
- Divide the cooked rice noodles among serving bowls.
- Ladle the hot broth over the noodles, ensuring each bowl gets an equal amount of meatballs.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and chili slices.
- Serve hot with hoisin sauce and sriracha sauce on the side for added flavor.
Enjoy your homemade Beef Meatball Pho, a delightful and satisfying Vietnamese dish that’s perfect for any occasion!