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  • Writer's pictureSonjy Bambi D

What the Pho?

Updated: Jun 27, 2023

There's nothing quite like sharing a meal with loved ones, especially when it's a special trip around the world via food. As someone who enjoys cooking,


I recently embarked on this journey with my 91-year-old dad, "Papa Joe" a Vietnam veteran who has always been active and adventurous.

After trying out Caribbean and Italian dishes, my dad requested that we try something from his old stomping grounds - Vietnam.


Inspired by my dear friend, Foo Nguyen, comedian, celebrity home chef, and one of the Top 3 contestants of Season one of PBS's "The Great American Recipe",

I decided to make my version of Vietnamese Beef Pho.




Here's what you'll need for this easy recipe:





Sgt. Joe's Vietnamese Inspired Pho

Things You Will Need:

  • 1 pound beef sirloin, thinly sliced

  • 1 onion, sliced

  • 2 teaspoon of minced garlic

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

  • 8 cups beef broth

  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon sticks

  • 2 star anise

  • 1 tablespoon whole coriander seeds

  • 1 tablespoon sugar

  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce

  • 8 ounces rice noodles

  • Fresh cilantro, basil, and lime wedges for garnish

Let's Cook!

  1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until fragrant.

  2. Add the beef broth, cinnamon, star anise, coriander seeds, sugar, and fish sauce. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to low and let simmer for about 30 minutes.

  3. While the broth is simmering, cook the rice noodles according to package instructions.

  4. When ready to serve, divide the noodles among bowls and top with the thinly sliced beef.

  5. Pour the hot broth over the beef and noodles.

  6. Garnish with fresh cilantro, basil, and a squeeze of lime juice.

Papa Joe likes to add more noodles and vegetables to his bowl of Pho, but as always, make this recipe your own.

Enjoy connecting with your loved ones and explore the world through the power of food.

And for more inspiration from my buddy, Foo Nguyen follow him on social media for great food and laughter! Instagram: @foonguyen

Facebook: @foo.nguyen.1 Youtube: @Thefoo2

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