Pho Lao (lao-style Beef Soup)

Pho Lao is a traditional Lao-style beef soup that is rich in flavor and comforting to the soul. This aromatic and hearty soup is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a cold winter day or a gathering with friends and family.

Pho Lao (lao-style Beef Soup)

Ingredients

  • 1 pound beef brisket, thinly sliced
  • 8 cups beef broth
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 3 star anise
  • 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 8 oz rice noodles
  • Fresh herbs (Thai basil, cilantro, mint) for garnish
  • Bean sprouts, lime wedges, and sliced chili for serving

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, bring the beef broth to a boil.
  2. Add the beef brisket, onion, garlic, cinnamon stick, star anise, and coriander seeds to the pot. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 1.5 hours.
  3. Remove the beef brisket from the pot and thinly slice it. Set aside.
  4. Add fish sauce and sugar to the broth, then return the sliced beef brisket to the pot.
  5. Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions.
  6. To serve, divide the cooked rice noodles among serving bowls. Ladle the beef and broth over the noodles. Garnish with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and sliced chili.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
2 hours
Total time:
2 hours
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Carbohydrates
25g
Protein
30g
Fat
12g

Supplies

Large pot Ladle Serving bowls

Tools

Knife Cutting board Potato peeler (for slicing onion)

Serving suggestions

Serve the Pho Lao with a side of fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and sliced chili for added flavor and texture.

Tips & tricks

For a richer flavor, you can roast the onion and garlic before adding them to the broth.

Cost

$20