If you’re craving a hearty and flavorful bowl of pho, look no further than this Oxtail Pho recipe. With tender meat and aromatic broth, it’s a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Follow this guide to create an authentic Vietnamese experience right at home.
What is Oxtail Pho?
Oxtail Pho is a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup that features oxtail as the main protein. The rich, gelatinous broth is infused with aromatic spices, making it a favorite among pho lovers. This dish is not only delicious but also nourishing, making it a perfect meal for family and friends.
Ingredients for Oxtail Pho
To make Oxtail Pho, gather the following ingredients:
For the Broth
- 2 pounds of oxtail
- 1 onion, halved
- 4-5 slices of ginger
- 5-6 star anise
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4-5 cloves
- 1 tablespoon of coriander seeds
- 1 tablespoon of fish sauce
- Salt, to taste
- Water (enough to cover the oxtail)
For the Noodles
- 8 ounces of rice noodles (pho noodles)
Toppings
- Fresh basil
- Bean sprouts
- Lime wedges
- Sliced jalapeños
- Sliced green onions
- Hoisin sauce (optional)
- Sriracha (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
- Roast the Aromatics: In a dry skillet over medium heat, roast the onion and ginger until charred. This enhances the flavor of the broth.
- Blanch the Oxtail: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the oxtail and blanch for 5 minutes. Drain and rinse the oxtail to remove impurities.
- Simmer: In the same pot, add the oxtail, charred onion, ginger, star anise, cinnamon stick, cloves, coriander seeds, fish sauce, and salt. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook for at least 4 hours. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
While the broth simmers, cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Strain the Broth
Once the oxtail is tender, strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve to remove the solids. Return the liquid to the pot and adjust the seasoning with additional fish sauce or salt if necessary.
Step 4: Assemble the Pho
- Serve the Noodles: In a bowl, add a serving of rice noodles.
- Add the Oxtail: Place pieces of oxtail on top of the noodles.
- Pour the Broth: Ladle the hot broth over the noodles and meat.
- Garnish: Top with fresh basil, bean sprouts, jalapeños, lime wedges, and green onions.
Tips for the Perfect Oxtail Pho
- Patience is Key: Allowing the broth to simmer for a long time develops deeper flavors.
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices for a personal touch.
- Make It Ahead: The broth can be made a day in advance to enhance the flavors even more.
Conclusion
Making Oxtail Pho at home may take some time, but the results are worth the effort. With its rich flavors and tender meat, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy your delicious homemade Oxtail Pho!
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Try this recipe today and share your experience in the comments! Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later use. Happy cooking!