Recipe: Beef Meatball Pho

Pho is a beloved Vietnamese noodle soup known for its aromatic broth and fresh ingredients. Here’s how you can make a delicious Beef Meatball Pho at home:

Ingredients:

• For the broth:
  • 2 onions, peeled and halved
  • 1 piece ginger (about 3 inches), sliced
  • 4-5 lbs beef bones (such as oxtail, knuckle bones)
  • 1 lb beef brisket or chuck
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 3 star anise
  • 4-5 cloves
  • 1 tbsp coriander seeds
  • 1 tbsp fennel seeds
  • 6-8 cups water
  • 1-2 tbsp fish sauce
  • Salt, to taste
  • Sugar, to taste (optional)
• For the beef meatballs:
  • 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • Chopped fresh herbs (cilantro, Thai basil) for garnish
  • Lime wedges, bean sprouts, and sliced chili peppers for serving
• For serving:
  • Rice noodles (banh pho)
  • Fresh herbs (Thai basil, cilantro)
  • Bean sprouts
  • Lime wedges
  • Sliced chili peppers (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the broth:
   • Char the onions and ginger over an open flame or under a broiler until slightly blackened.
   • In a large stockpot, add beef bones, beef brisket or chuck, charred onions, ginger, cinnamon stick, star anise, cloves, coriander seeds, and fennel seeds.
   • Cover with 6-8 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer gently for at least 4 hours, skimming the surface occasionally to remove any foam or impurities.
   • After simmering, strain the broth through a fine sieve or cheesecloth into a clean pot. Discard solids. Season with fish sauce, salt, and sugar (if using). Keep warm over low heat.
2. Prepare the beef meatballs:
   • In a large bowl, combine ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, black pepper, breadcrumbs, and egg. Mix until well combined.
   • Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
   • In a separate pot of boiling water, cook the meatballs for about 5-7 minutes until they are cooked through and no longer pink inside. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Prepare the rice noodles:
   • Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking.
4. Assemble the Beef Meatball Pho:
   • Divide the cooked rice noodles among serving bowls.
   • Arrange a few cooked beef meatballs on top of the noodles.
   • Ladle the hot broth over the noodles and meatballs, ensuring they are fully submerged.
   • Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs (Thai basil, cilantro), bean sprouts, lime wedges, and sliced chili peppers on the side.
5. Enjoy your homemade Beef Meatball Pho:
   • Stir the noodles and meatballs into the hot broth before eating. Customize with lime juice, fresh herbs, and chili peppers according to your taste.

This Beef Meatball Pho is a comforting and flavorful dish that captures the essence of Vietnamese cuisine. Perfect for a cozy meal at home!