Flavor-Packed Instant Pot Pho

Pho might just be the world’s most beloved soup, and for good reason. This Vietnamese classic is a symphony of flavors, combining a deeply spiced broth with tender meats and fresh herbs. With this recipe, we’re bringing you a quick and delicious version made in the Instant Pot, so you can enjoy a bowl of pho without waiting for hours.

Growing up, pho was a staple in my household. The rich, aromatic broth and the tender slices of meat always brought comfort. This recipe captures that same essence but is adapted for the modern kitchen. It’s a breeze to make, yet it retains all the authentic flavors that make pho so special.

What sets this pho apart is the deeply spiced and aromatic broth, achieved by charring the aromatics and adding a blend of spices that infuse the soup with layers of flavor. And the best part? It’s all done in the Instant Pot, making it a quick yet satisfying meal. Whether you’re a pho aficionado or a newbie, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

• 1 large onion, charred
• 2 inches ginger, charred
• 2 lbs beef bones
• 1 lb beef finger meat
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 star anise
• 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
• 1 tablespoon fennel seeds
• 2 cloves
• 5-6 dried Chinese chilis
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 piece rock sugar
• 4 quarts water
• Fresh rice noodles
• Thinly sliced sirloin
• Thai basil
• Bean sprouts
• Lime wedges
• Fresh cilantro
• Sliced green onions

---

Pho Variations

• Chicken Pho: Swap out the beef for chicken bones and chicken meat. Adjust cooking time to 20 minutes in the Instant Pot.
• Vegetarian Pho: Use vegetable broth and omit the meat. Add extra vegetables like mushrooms and tofu.
• Spicy Pho: Add more dried chilis and a spoonful of chili paste to the broth for an extra kick.
• Seafood Pho: Use a seafood broth base and add shrimp, fish balls, and calamari rings. Cook the broth for 15 minutes.

How to Make The Best Instant Pot Pho

1. Char the Aromatics: Start by charring your onions and ginger. You can do this with a blowtorch, on a gas stove, or under the broiler. This step is crucial for deep, smoky flavors.
2. Load the Instant Pot: Place the charred aromatics, beef bones, finger meat, cinnamon stick, star anise, and other spices into the Instant Pot. Add water to cover everything.
3. Cook: Set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 35 minutes. Once done, perform a quick release.
4. Season the Broth: Add rock sugar and fish sauce (or salt) to taste. The broth should be slightly over-seasoned since it will balance out when served with noodles and herbs.
5. Prepare the Noodles and Toppings: While the broth is cooking, prepare the rice noodles according to package instructions. Slice the sirloin thinly and prepare any additional toppings like Thai basil, bean sprouts, and lime wedges.
6. Assemble Your Bowl: Place the cooked noodles and raw sirloin in a bowl. Pour the hot broth over to cook the meat. Top with onions, cilantro, and other garnishes.
7. Enjoy: Serve immediately with additional garnishes and sauces on the side.

Helpful Hints

• Char the Aromatics: Don’t skip the step of charring the onions, ginger, and spices. It’s essential for that deep, authentic pho flavor.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh Thai basil, cilantro, and bean sprouts add brightness and crunch to your bowl. Always have them on hand when serving pho.
• Control the Fat: If you prefer a less fatty broth, let the soup cool and skim off the solidified fat before reheating and serving.