How to Make Delicious Rare Steak, Well Done Flank Pho

Introduction:

In Vietnamese cuisine, pho is a beloved dish that warms the soul with its flavorful broth and tender noodles. One popular variation is “Rare Steak, Well Done Flank Pho,” which combines the richness of beef broth with the contrast of rare and well-done beef slices. Here’s how to make this mouthwatering dish at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound beef flank
• 1 pound beef sirloin
• 8 cups beef broth
• 1 onion, sliced
• 3-inch piece of ginger, sliced
• 3-4 star anise
• 3-4 cloves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2-3 cardamom pods
• 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• Salt, to taste
• Rice noodles
• Bean sprouts
• Fresh herbs (Thai basil, cilantro, mint)
• Lime wedges
• Sliced chili peppers
• Hoisin sauce
• Sriracha sauce

Instructions:

1. Prepare the beef: Slice the beef flank thinly against the grain. Set aside. Slice the beef sirloin into thin slices as well. Keep both types of beef refrigerated until ready to use.
2. Make the broth: In a large pot, char the onion and ginger over an open flame or in a dry skillet until fragrant and slightly blackened. Add the beef broth, star anise, cloves, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, coriander seeds, sugar, fish sauce, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Cook the noodles: Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Divide the noodles among serving bowls.
4. Prepare the toppings: Arrange the bean sprouts, fresh herbs, lime wedges, and sliced chili peppers on a platter. Place the hoisin sauce and sriracha sauce on the table for diners to add to their bowls as desired.
5. Assemble the pho: Just before serving, bring the broth back to a simmer. Place a handful of raw beef slices (flank and sirloin) on top of the noodles in each bowl. Ladle the hot broth over the beef, ensuring that it cooks the beef to desired doneness (rare or well-done).
6. Serve hot: Garnish each bowl with the prepared toppings and serve immediately. Encourage diners to customize their pho with additional sauces and condiments according to their taste preferences.
7. Enjoy: Dive into a comforting bowl of “Rare Steak, Well Done Flank Pho” and savor the rich flavors of the broth, the tender texture of the beef, and the freshness of the herbs. Serve alongside a side of crispy bean sprouts and aromatic herbs for an authentic Vietnamese dining experience.

Conclusion: With this recipe, you can recreate the comforting flavors of “Rare Steak, Well Done Flank Pho” in your own kitchen. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal on a cold day or simply want to indulge in a bowl of Vietnamese comfort food, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy!