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Hey there! I've got this special date night on the horizon and I wanna impress my lady with some culinary magic. She's a big fan of Vietnamese food, especially Pho. You got any genius ideas for tossing in a surprise ingredient to make it unforgettable? Would really appreciate your expertise!
Hello! Here's a unique Pho recipe with a surprise twist of lemongrass and star anise. This should make your date night super memorable! 🍜💫
Lemongrass and Star Anise Infused Pho
🧺 Ingredients:
1 lb rice noodles (check to ensure they are gluten-free if needed)
1 lb thinly sliced beef sirloin or tenderloin
4 cups beef or vegetable broth
2 stalks lemongrass, lightly bruised
2-3 star anise
1 cinnamon stick
1 medium onion, peeled and halved
3 cloves garlic, peeled
2-inch piece of ginger, sliced
2 tablespoons fish sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 teaspoons sugar
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro, basil, and mint for garnish
Lime wedges, bean sprouts, and sliced chili peppers for serving
📜 Instructions:
1️⃣ Preparation: Place the beef in the freezer for about 30 minutes to make it easier to slice thinly. Soak the rice noodles in warm water for 30 minutes or as per package instructions.
2️⃣ Char the Aromatics: On an open flame or broiler, char the onion and ginger until they develop a light blackened layer. Peel off the blackened layer and set aside.
3️⃣ Make the Broth: In a large pot, add the broth, charred onion, ginger, garlic, lemongrass, star anise, and cinnamon stick. Bring to a gentle boil and then lower the heat to simmer for about 30-40 minutes.
4️⃣ Season the Broth: Add the fish sauce, soy sauce, and sugar. Taste and adjust with salt if needed.
5️⃣ Strain the Broth: Remove all the large aromatics, leaving a clear, flavorful broth.
6️⃣ Cook the Beef: Slice the partially frozen beef into very thin slices.
7️⃣ Assemble the Pho: Bring the broth back to a rolling boil. Divide the soaked and drained rice noodles among serving bowls. Place the thinly sliced beef on top of the noodles. Pour the hot broth over, which will cook the beef instantly.
8️⃣ Garnish and Serve: Top with fresh cilantro, basil, and mint. Serve with lime wedges, bean sprouts, and sliced chili peppers on the side.
Enjoy your date night! 🍜🌟
