* **For the Soup**:

* 1 pound dried 1/16-inch-wide rice sticks, soaked, cooked, and drained
* 1/3 pound beef sirloin, slightly frozen, then sliced paper-thin across the grain

* **Garnishes**:

* 1/2 yellow onion, sliced paper-thin
* 3 scallions, cut into thin rings
* 1/3 cup chopped cilantro
* 1 pound bean sprouts
* 10 sprigs Asian basil
* 6 Thai bird chilies or 1 serrano chili, cut into thin rings
* 1 lime, cut into 6 thin wedges
* Freshly ground black pepper

### Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Broth**:

* In a large stockpot, bring 6 quarts of water to a boil.
* Place the bones and beef chuck in a second pot and add water to cover. Bring to a boil and boil vigorously for 5 minutes.
* Using tongs, carefully transfer the bones and beef to the first pot of boiling water.
* Add the ginger, onions, fish sauce, sugar, star anise, cloves, and salt to the pot.
* Reduce the heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 6 hours, skimming off any scum that rises to the surface.
* Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot. Discard the solids.

2. **Assemble the Soup**:

* Divide the cooked rice noodles among serving bowls.
* Arrange the sliced beef sirloin on top of the noodles.
* Pour the hot broth over the noodles and beef, allowing the heat to cook the thin slices of beef.
* Garnish with onion, scallions, cilantro, bean sprouts, basil, chilies, lime wedges, and black pepper.

3. **Serve**:

* Serve the pho immediately, allowing each diner to adjust the garnishes and seasonings to their taste.

This recipe captures the essence of traditional pho and can be customized with different meats or spices to suit your preferences.

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## Pho in Popular Culture

Pho has transcended its origins to become a global culinary phenomenon. It’s featured in food documentaries, cooking shows, and has inspired countless home cooks and professional chefs alike. Its presence in popular culture underscores its status as more than just a meal—it’s a symbol of Vietnamese heritage and hospitality.

—

## Conclusion

Pho is a dish that embodies the spirit of Vietnam—rich in history, diverse in flavors, and deeply rooted in tradition. Whether enjoyed at a bustling street stall in Hanoi or prepared in the comfort of your home, pho offers a taste experience that is both comforting and exhilarating. Its ability to adapt to regional tastes while maintaining its core identity speaks to the versatility and enduring appeal of this beloved noodle soup.([foodandwine.com][9])

Exploring pho is not just about savoring a bowl of soup; it’s about experiencing a piece of Vietnamese culture and history. So, the next time you enjoy a bowl of pho, take a moment to appreciate the centuries of tradition and the countless hands that have perfected this dish.

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[1]: https://www.lovingpho.com/pho-opinion-editorial/history-and-evolution-of-vietnamese-pho/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “The History and Evolution of Pho: A Hundred Years’ Journey – #Site Title”
[2]: https://www.bbc.co.uk/travel/article/20210421-pho-the-humble-soup-that-caused-an-outrage?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Pho: The humble soup that caused an outrage – BBC Travel”
[3]: https://www.recipetineats.com/vietnamese-pho-recipe/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Vietnamese Pho recipe – RecipeTin Eats”
[4]: https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20210421-pho-the-humble-soup-that-caused-an-outrage?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Pho: The humble soup that caused an outrage”
[5]: https://www.arlafoods.co.uk/recipes/vietnamese-pho/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Vietnamese pho recipe | Arla Recipe | Arla UK”
[6]: https://www.seriouseats.com/pho-saigon-southern-vietnamese-noodle-soup-recipe-7375471?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Phở Saigon (Southern Vietnamese Noodle Soup) Recipe”
[7]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pho?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Pho”
[8]: https://www.allrecipes.com/article/pho-cold-cure/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Can Pho Really Cure a Cold?”
[9]: https://www.foodandwine.com/soup/how-make-pho?utm_source=chatgpt.com “How to Make Pho”