Beef pho is served in a deep bowl and layered with hot noodles, green scallions, cilantro and thin slices of beef. A rich, hearty, piping hot beef broth is ladled over the beef then condiments of Thai basil, mint, cilantro jalepeno peppers and lime wedges are passed to guests to add and enjoy.
Using a large stock pot, add the beef stock and bring it to a boil over high heat. Add the fish sauce, ginger root, cinnamon sticks, star anise and the sugar, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes.
Arrange the basil leaves,1 bunch of the cilantro, mint, bean sprouts, lime wedges and sliced jalapeño chiles on a platter and reserve as condiments when the pho is served.
Fill a large saucepan with water and bring it to boil over high heat. Add the rice noodles and cook according to the manufacturer’s directions.
While the noodles are cooking add the following to a plate and reserve until the noodles are cooked: Slice the beef as thinly as possible…if the beef is partially frozen it will slice easily. Slice the green onions on a diagonal about 1-inch. Cut the 1/2 bunch of cilantro into large pieces.
Drain the noodles and add an equal portion to 4 large bowls, add the green onions and chopped cilantro.
Divide the slices of beef equally among the bowls, placing them in one layer on top of the green onions and cilantro. Remove the ginger root, cinnamon sticks and star anise from the beef broth and ladle the piping hot broth into the bowl. The hot broth will cook the thinly sliced beef.
Serve the bowls immediately and pass the platter of condiments and the chile sauce.
Notes
Most butchers in a grocery store will gladly slice the beef for you, or, it may be available packaged as sukiyaki beef.