There are so many wonderful flavors in this Bored of Lunch Beef Pho made in the slow cooker using beef steaks, spring onions, fresh ginger, lime, hoisin sauce, and beef stock.

To make Beef Pho in your slow cooker or crockpot, simply combine the beef, spring onions, ginger, lime zest and juice, hoisin sauce, star anise, garlic, and beef stock. Cook on high for 1¼ hours, then add the rice noodles and cook for another 20 minutes.

Make a batch on Sunday to enjoy through the week, or just make it on the day you fancy it. The noodles make this more filling than your usual soup.

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Can I use store-bought broth for Beef Pho?

Yes, you can use store-bought broth for Beef Pho to save time. Choose a high-quality beef broth with no added preservatives or artificial flavors. Look for brands like Pacific Foods or Kitchen Basics for a rich and flavorful base to complement your ingredients.

Bored of Lunch Slow Cooker Beef Pho Ingredients

• 400g of beef steaks, thinly sliced
• A few spring onions, chopped
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2.5cm of fresh ginger, grated
• Zest and juice of 1 lime
• 1 tbsp of hoisin sauce
• 1-star anise
• 4 garlic cloves, sliced
• 900ml of beef stock
• 1 red chilli, seeds removed and chopped
• 200g of rice noodles
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh coriander and lime wedges, for garnish

How To Make Bored of Lunch Beef Pho Slow Cooker

1. Prepare the beef and spring onions: If you have time, heat a nonstick frying pan over high heat on the hob, then place the beef and spring onions in the pan and sear for about a minute until just browned all over. If you’re in a hurry, just skip this step.
2. Prepare the slow cooker: Place the beef, spring onions, cinnamon stick, grated ginger, lime zest and juice, hoisin sauce, star anise, sliced garlic, beef stock, and chopped red chilli into the slow cooker. Stir everything well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook the pho: Cook on high for 1¼ hours to allow the flavors to blend and the beef to become tender.
4. Prepare the noodles: Add the rice noodles to the slow cooker, ensuring they are submerged in the broth. Stir and cook for another 20 minutes, stirring after 10 minutes to prevent sticking.
5. Finish and remove aromatics: Carefully remove the cinnamon stick and star anise from the slow cooker to prevent the broth from becoming overly spiced.
6. Serve the pho: Garnish the pho with fresh coriander and lime wedges before serving, adding a fresh and vibrant touch to the dish.

Can I make Beef Pho in advance?

Yes, you can make Beef Pho in advance by preparing the broth and refrigerating it separately from the noodles and garnishes. When ready to serve, reheat the broth, cook the noodles fresh, and add your garnishes.

Recipe Tips

• Adjust the spice level: If you find the Beef Pho too spicy, you can reduce the amount of red chili and ginger to suit your taste while still maintaining the delicious flavors of the broth.
• Enhance the broth flavor: Browning the beef and onions in a pan before adding them to the slow cooker can add a richer and deeper flavor to your broth, which I highly recommend for extra depth.
• Prevent soggy noodles: Cook the rice noodles separately and add them to each bowl just before serving. This prevents the noodles from becoming too soft and maintains a perfect texture for your Beef Pho.
• Use fresh herbs: Always use fresh herbs like coriander and basil to garnish your Beef Pho. Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor and aroma, making the dish taste more vibrant and authentic.
• Clarify the broth: If you prefer a clearer broth, strain it through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth before serving. This removes any impurities and gives your Beef Pho a clean, clear look and taste.

Recipe Variations

• Try different proteins: Substitute the beef steaks with thinly sliced chicken breast, pork tenderloin, or tofu for a different protein option.
• Add more vegetables: Incorporate additional vegetables like bok choy, mushrooms, or bean sprouts into the broth for added nutrition and texture. I love adding these for a more filling and healthy Beef Pho.
• Use different noodles: Experiment with different types of noodles, such as udon or soba, to give your Beef Pho a unique twist. Different noodles can change the texture and absorb the broth differently.
• Make it gluten-free: Ensure your Beef Pho is gluten-free by using tamari or coconut aminos instead of hoisin sauce.

What To Serve With Beef Pho

Serve your Beef Pho with creative sides like Vietnamese spring rolls, Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup, fresh summer rolls with peanut dipping sauce, crispy prawn crackers, and a vibrant mango salad.

You can also pair Beef Pho with pickled vegetables, steamed bao buns, or a side of fresh herbs.

How To Store Leftover Beef Pho

In The Fridge:

Store your leftover Beef Pho in an airtight container and refrigerate it promptly. Make sure the broth and noodles are stored separately to avoid sogginess. The beef and vegetables should be covered with broth to keep them moist. Consume within 3 days for the best taste and safety.

In The Freezer:

To freeze Beef Pho, store the broth and solid ingredients separately in airtight containers or freezer bags. This prevents the noodles from becoming mushy upon thawing. Ensure there is enough space for the liquid to expand as it freezes. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How To Reheat Leftover Beef Pho

Reheat your leftover Beef Pho on the stovetop by bringing the broth to a simmer before adding the noodles and beef.

Alternatively, use the microwave on medium power, heating in short intervals and stirring frequently.

Check out More Slow Cooker Recipes:

• Bored of Lunch Minestrone Soup
• Bored of Lunch Chicken Noodle Soup
• Bored of Lunch Carrot and Coriander Soup