Can I substitute chicken for beef?

Yes, chicken can be used as an alternative protein.

How long can I store leftovers?

Store the broth and noodles separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this dish ahead?

Yes, the broth can be prepared a day in advance to develop deeper flavors.

What gluten-free options are available?

Ensure the rice noodles and fish sauce used are certified gluten-free.

How do I reheat the pho?

Reheat the broth on the stove and briefly soak the noodles in hot water before serving.

Lemon-Basil Vietnamese Pho with Herb-Infused Broth

Name: Lemon-Basil Vietnamese Pho with Herb-Infused Broth
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: 1 large onion; 1 ginger knob (2 inches); 3 quarts beef or chicken stock; 3 star anise; 4 cloves; 1 stick cinnamon; 1 lemon; 1 small bunch fresh basil; 3 tablespoons fish sauce; Salt to taste; 200g rice noodles; 200g thinly sliced beef (sirloin or eye of round); Handful of bean sprouts; 2 green onions; 1 fresh red chili; Fresh basil leaves; Lime wedges; Fresh cilantro; Hoisin sauce; Sriracha

A Refreshing Twist on a Classic Vietnamese Dish

This fragrant Vietnamese pho incorporates hints of lemon and basil for a refreshing take on the classic noodle soup.

1 h 45 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Broth

1 large onion

halved

1 ginger knob (2 inches)

sliced

3 quarts beef or chicken stock

3 star anise

4 cloves

1 stick cinnamon

1 lemon

zested and juiced

1 small bunch fresh basil

3 tablespoons fish sauce

Salt to taste

For the Pho

200g rice noodles

200g thinly sliced beef (sirloin or eye of round)

Handful of bean sprouts

2 green onions

chopped

1 fresh red chili

sliced

For Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves

Lime wedges

Fresh cilantro

chopped

Hoisin sauce

for serving

Sriracha

for serving

Preparation

Preparing the Herb-Infused Broth

Char the aromatics

Place the onions and ginger under the broiler for about 5 minutes, turning once, until slightly charred.

Combine ingredients

In a large pot, add the stock, charred onions, ginger, star anise, cloves, and cinnamon. Bring to a boil.

Simmer with herbs

Reduce the heat to a simmer and add lemon zest, lemon juice, and fresh basil. Simmer for 1 hour.

Pro Tip: Strain the broth to remove spices and herbs for a clear, aromatic soup base.

Preparing the Pho Components

Soak noodles

Soak rice noodles in hot water for 30 minutes until soft. Drain well.

Important: Do not overcook the noodles. They should be tender but not mushy.

Prep toppings

Arrange beef slices, bean sprouts, green onions, and red chili on a plate for easy serving.

Cooking Process

Broth Completion

Strain the broth to remove solids, then add fish sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt.

Noodle Cooking

Briefly submerge noodles in boiling water for 30 seconds to heat through. Drain and divide into serving bowls.

Serving Preparation

Rapidly pour hot broth over noodles and arrange beef slices to gently cook in the hot broth.

Plating & Serving