Pho (pronounced “fuh”) is a beloved Vietnamese noodle soup that combines aromatic broth, tender meat, herbs, and rice noodles. Traditionally simmered for hours, pho is now easier than ever to make with the help of an Instant Pot, cutting down the time significantly while still delivering a rich and flavorful broth.
What is Pho?
Pho is a classic Vietnamese dish that’s traditionally served with a steaming bowl of broth, thinly sliced meat, herbs, and noodles. It’s comforting and can be tailored to personal taste, with various add-ins and toppings such as bean sprouts, lime, and hot peppers. The dish is a mainstay in Vietnamese cuisine and is enjoyed all over the world, often as a satisfying lunch or dinner.
History of Pho
While the exact origins of pho remain debated, it is widely believed to have originated in northern Vietnam in the early 20th century. The dish grew in popularity thanks to increased access to beef in the region. Over time, pho has evolved into many variations and is served globally, with each version offering a unique taste experience.
Pho’s rich broth, which is the backbone of the dish, is made by simmering bones and aromatics for hours. But with the Instant Pot, you can replicate the depth of flavor in a fraction of the time.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Pho
This Instant Pot Pho recipe takes the traditional pho broth and brings it to your kitchen with minimal effort. The key components of pho are the rich, savory broth, tender meat, fresh herbs, and a variety of toppings.
Pho Broth Ingredients:
Beef Bones: A mix of marrow bones, knuckles, and/or ribs is ideal for making a flavorful broth.
Aromatics: Onion, garlic, carrots, and ginger are charred to create a rich base for the broth.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Helps break down the bones to extract more flavor.
Seasonings: Ground cinnamon, coriander, black peppercorns, star anise, and cardamom bring the authentic Vietnamese flavor.
Water: The base for the broth, absorbing all the wonderful flavors from the bones and aromatics.
Pho Soup Ingredients:
Fish Sauce: Adds a savory umami flavor that is quintessential to pho.
Beef: Grass-fed sirloin steak, thinly sliced, cooked separately before adding it into the soup.
Rice Noodles: Par-cooked according to package instructions.
Toppings: Bean sprouts, fresh lime, sliced onions, herbs like basil, cilantro, and mint, Sriracha, and hot red peppers for extra heat.
Optional Add-ins:
Additional Proteins: Besides beef, you can use chicken, pork, shrimp, or tofu for variety.
Veggies: Mushrooms, bok choy, snap peas, or edamame can be added for more flavor and texture.
How to Make Instant Pot Pho
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to get started. The Instant Pot makes this traditionally time-consuming recipe much quicker, without sacrificing flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Char the Aromatics:
Place the onion, garlic, carrot, and ginger on a sheet pan and broil them for about 10 minutes, or until they are nicely charred. This step brings out deep, smoky flavors that will enhance the broth.
2. Parboil the Bones:
Fill a medium-sized pot with water, cover it, and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, turn the heat to medium-low and add the beef bones. Let them cook for 2-3 minutes, then drain and skim off any fat that remains on the bones. This step ensures a cleaner, less greasy broth.
3. Combine Ingredients in the Instant Pot:
Add the parboiled bones, charred vegetables, apple cider vinegar, spices, and water to your Instant Pot. Make sure the water covers the bones. Secure the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on High Pressure for 45 minutes. Once the cooking time is done, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 15 minutes.
4. Strain the Broth:
After releasing the pressure, carefully strain the broth through a fine mesh strainer. Repeat the straining process 2-3 times until the broth is clear and free of any solids. You should have a rich, fragrant broth.
How to Finish Your Instant Pot Pho
Now that you have your rich, aromatic broth, it’s time to add in the other components of pho. This includes cooking the steak, preparing the rice noodles, and assembling the dish with all your favorite toppings.
Step 5: Cook the Steak
To ensure your steak is perfectly cooked, it’s essential to slice it thinly. For the best results, freeze the beef for about 30 minutes before slicing. This makes it easier to get thin, uniform slices, which will cook quickly and remain tender when added to the broth.
Cook the Steak: Heat a small skillet with 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced steak and cook until it’s no longer pink, about 3-4 minutes. Set the steak aside in a bowl.
Step 6: Prepare the Rice Noodles
While your broth is cooking, you can start preparing the rice noodles. Most packaged rice noodles will require you to cook them for about 3-5 minutes. Follow the instructions on the package to ensure the noodles are tender but not mushy.
Tip: I recommend cooking the rice noodles separately, as they can become overly soft if left to cook in the broth. Drain the noodles and set them aside until you’re ready to serve.
Step 7: Assemble and Serve the Pho
Now comes the fun part—assembling the pho! Each bowl will be filled with the beautiful, flavorful broth, and you can add as many toppings as you like.
Place the Broth in Bowls: Pour the strained beef broth into your serving bowls, filling them halfway.
Add the Noodles: Place the cooked rice noodles in the bowls, layering them on top of the broth.
Add Toppings: Layer in the cooked steak, fresh herbs (such as basil, cilantro, and mint), bean sprouts, and green onions. You can also add a squeeze of lime juice for extra zest.
Sriracha and Hot Red Pepper: If you like a little heat, drizzle some Sriracha over the top or garnish with sliced hot red pepper. The spicy kick will complement the savory broth beautifully.
Optional Add-ins: Feel free to experiment with other toppings such as sliced mushrooms, shredded carrots, or bok choy to make your pho even more flavorful.
Tips for Slicing & Cooking the Beef
The key to tender beef in pho lies in how you slice and cook it. Here are some additional tips:
Freeze the Beef: Before slicing, place the beef in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This will firm up the meat and make it easier to slice thinly.
Slice Against the Grain: For the best texture, make sure you slice the beef against the grain. This shortens the muscle fibers and helps create a tender bite.
Cook Separately: Cooking the beef separately, either by pan-frying or by adding it directly to the broth at the end, ensures it cooks quickly and doesn’t overcook in the broth.
Storing Leftovers
Pho is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:
Broth Storage: Store leftover pho broth in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 4-6 months. To freeze, allow the broth to cool before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays.
Beef and Noodles: Keep the cooked beef and rice noodles separate from the broth when storing. The noodles can become mushy if left in the broth. Store the beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove when ready to serve.
How to Customize Your Pho
Pho is a versatile dish, and you can make it your own by experimenting with different ingredients and flavors. Here are some ideas for customizing your Instant Pot pho:
Vary the Protein: While this recipe uses beef, you can also try chicken, shrimp, or pork. Simply cook the meat separately and slice thinly before adding it to the broth.
Extra Veggies: Add your favorite vegetables such as shiitake mushrooms, bok choy, snow peas, or edamame. To avoid overcooking them, steam the veggies separately and add them to the pho just before serving.
Spice Level: If you like your pho spicy, add more Sriracha or top the dish with fresh hot chili slices. You can also increase the amount of black peppercorns or cayenne pepper when making the broth for an extra kick.
How to Enhance the Flavor of Your Instant Pot Pho
Pho is all about layers of flavors—savory, aromatic, and a touch of spice. While the Instant Pot significantly speeds up the process, there are several ways to further enhance the flavor and elevate your pho experience.
Boost the Broth’s Flavor
The broth is the heart of pho. To intensify its richness:
Roast the Bones: If you have a little extra time, you can roast the bones before adding them to the Instant Pot. Roasting the bones in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 30 minutes helps bring out a deeper, roasted flavor in the broth. Simply place the bones on a baking sheet and roast until they are golden brown.
Add More Herbs: Fresh herbs like lemongrass or bay leaves can give the broth a unique aroma. You can also add a handful of cloves or cinnamon sticks to the pot while cooking the broth for added depth.
Adjust the Seasoning: Pho is about balance. If you feel the broth needs more seasoning, try adding a dash of soy sauce for extra umami or a splash of fish sauce to bring out the authentic Vietnamese flavor. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the salt levels too!
Creative Toppings and Add-ins for Pho
While pho traditionally has specific toppings, the beauty of this dish lies in how customizable it is. Here are more creative ideas to enhance your pho experience:
Add Sweetness
To balance the savory broth, you can add a little sweetness:
Hoison sauce: A drizzle of hoison sauce adds a rich, sweet flavor that complements the spiciness of the broth.
Caramelized onions: Sauteing onions until they are golden brown and sweet can add another layer of complexity to the dish.
Experiment with Heat
For spice lovers, pho can be as hot as you like. Consider the following additions:
Jalapeños or Thai bird chilies: Add these to the broth or as a garnish to bring in more heat.
Sriracha: For a classic spicy kick, drizzle extra sriracha over the top of your pho.
Add Crunch
Textures are important in pho. For crunch and freshness, try:
Fried shallots: Top your pho with crispy fried shallots for a satisfying crunch and a touch of sweetness.
Peanuts: Toasted peanuts can add a delightful crunch and richness.
Serving Suggestions
Pho is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas for serving your pho:
Traditional Sides
Garlic Bread: The savory, crispy crunch of garlic bread is perfect for dipping in the flavorful broth.
Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls made with shrimp or vegetables are a perfect complement to pho, adding a refreshing crunch.
Steamed Buns: Soft, pillowy buns are great for soaking up the delicious pho broth.
Refreshing Drinks
Pho is hearty and warming, so pairing it with a refreshing beverage can balance the meal. Consider serving:
Iced tea with mint: A cool, minty iced tea cuts through the richness of the broth and complements the fresh herbs in the pho.
Coconut water: A lightly sweet and refreshing drink, coconut water can complement the savory pho broth without overwhelming it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Pho
Can I make pho with chicken instead of beef?
Yes! While the traditional pho is made with beef, you can easily substitute chicken. Use chicken thighs or chicken breast and cook them with the broth. You can also use rotisserie chicken if you’re looking for a quicker option. Simply shred it and add it to the finished soup.
How can I make pho vegetarian or vegan?
For a vegetarian or vegan version of pho, skip the beef bones and use vegetable broth instead. You can also swap the meat for tofu or other plant-based proteins like tempeh. Use the same cooking method, but be sure to include lots of vegetables to make the soup hearty.
Can I freeze pho?
Yes, pho can be frozen! The broth freezes beautifully, and you can store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 6 months. For best results, store the broth separately from the noodles and meat, then reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it.
Can I make pho ahead of time?
Pho broth can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. Simply reheat the broth and assemble the pho with fresh noodles and toppings when you’re ready to serve. This is a great option if you want to save time on the day you’re serving it.
Conclusion on Instant Pot pho recipe
Making pho at home has never been easier thanks to the Instant Pot. This Instant Pot pho recipe simplifies the process while still delivering a deliciously complex and flavorful dish. From the rich broth to the tender beef and aromatic herbs, pho is a comforting meal that you can enjoy any time of the year. Whether you follow the traditional ingredients or customize your pho with your favorite proteins and veggies, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.
Ready to enjoy a comforting bowl of homemade pho? Get your Instant Pot, gather the ingredients, and enjoy the rich flavors of this Vietnamese classic without the hours of simmering!
Instant Pot Pho Recipe Card
Ingredients:
For the Pho Broth:
4 lb beef bones (mix of bone marrow, knuckles, ribs, or shank bones)
2 medium onions, halved
2 cloves garlic, skin removed
2 medium carrots, halved
2 knobs of ginger, sliced in half
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
2 teaspoons salt
4 whole star anise
1 teaspoon ground cardamom
6 cups water
For the Pho Soup:
½ teaspoon fish sauce
½ lb grass-fed sirloin steak, thinly sliced (freeze for 30 minutes before slicing)
1 cup bean sprouts
1 lime, cut into wedges
2 scallions, thinly sliced
1 box of rice noodles (par-cooked as per package instructions)
1 bunch basil (optional)
1 bunch cilantro (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh mint (optional)
1 teaspoon Sriracha (optional)
Fresh hot red pepper slices (optional)
Instructions:
Char the Aromatics: Place onion, garlic, carrot, and ginger on a sheet pan and broil at 400°F for 10 minutes, or until charred.
Parboil the Bones: In a medium pot, bring water to a boil. Add the beef bones and cook for 2-3 minutes, then drain and skim off any fat.
Cook the Broth in Instant Pot: Add the bones to the Instant Pot along with the charred veggies, apple cider vinegar, spices, and enough water to cover the bones. Seal the pot and set it to high pressure for 45 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 15 minutes, then quick release the rest of the pressure. Strain the broth through a fine mesh strainer.
Cook the Steak and Noodles: In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook the steak until no pink remains, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside. Cook rice noodles according to the package instructions and set aside.
Assemble the Pho: Place the broth in serving bowls. Add the rice noodles and top with the cooked steak. Garnish with bean sprouts, herbs (basil, cilantro, mint), lime wedges, Sriracha, and fresh red pepper slices.
Notes:
Beef: Freeze the beef for 30 minutes before slicing for easier cutting.
Customizing the Broth: For a deeper flavor, roast the bones at 400°F for 30 minutes before adding them to the Instant Pot.
Other Add-ins: Feel free to add other veggies like bok choy, shiitake mushrooms, or snap peas. You can also use chicken or shrimp as an alternative protein.
Storage: Store the broth separately from the noodles to maintain the best texture. Leftover broth can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 6 months.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 354 kcal
Carbohydrates: 31.3g
Protein: 37.7g
Fat: 7.5g
Saturated Fat: 2.7g
Cholesterol: 101mg
Sodium: 124mg
Fiber: 3.1g
Sugar: 2.7g
Vitamin A: 1 IU
Vitamin C: 4mg
Calcium: 58mg
Iron: 2mg
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes (plus 15 minutes natural release)
Total Time: 1 hour
Method: Pressure Cooking
Cuisine: Vietnamese
