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Deliciously Easy Instant Pot Pho: A Comforting Classic

Pho, the fragrant and flavoursome noodle soup hailing from Vietnam, has captivated taste buds across the globe. Traditionally, its preparation can be time-consuming, often involving hours of simmering to achieve that deep, aromatic broth. However, with the advent of modern kitchen technology, such as the Instant Pot, this culinary delight can be crafted effortlessly. Here’s how to make a deliciously easy Instant Pot pho that retains the essence of the beloved classic without the extensive cooking time.

The Beauty of Pho

Pho is more than just a meal; it’s a cultural experience. This beloved Vietnamese dish commonly consists of a rich broth, flat rice noodles (bánh phở), aromatic herbs, and a choice of protein—usually beef or chicken. It’s typically garnished with fresh ingredients like bean sprouts, lime wedges, and chillies, which give it a refreshing crunch and zest.

Why Use an Instant Pot?

The Instant Pot revolutionises cooking by combining the functions of a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, and more, all in one appliance. This versatility allows for a significant reduction in cooking time while still delivering moist and tender results. With the Instant Pot, you can achieve a rich pho broth in under an hour—perfect for those busy weeknights or when unexpected guests arrive.

Ingredients

To make this delectable Instant Pot pho, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Broth:

• 1 onion, halved
• 4-inch piece of ginger, halved
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 4 star anise pods
• 4 whole cloves
• 2 tbsp coriander seeds
• 2 litres of beef or chicken stock (homemade or store-bought)
• 500g of beef (flank, brisket, or sirloin) or chicken (thighs or breasts)
• Fish sauce, to taste
• Salt, to taste

For Serving:

• 400g flat rice noodles (bánh phở)
• Fresh herbs (basil, coriander, mint)
• Bean sprouts
• Lime wedges
• Sliced red chillies
• Sriracha or hoisin sauce (optional)

Method

Step 1: Toast the Aromatics

Start the Instant Pot on the sauté function. Add the halved onion and ginger, cut-side down, and let them brown for about 5 minutes. This process enhances the flavours, giving your broth a deeper profile. Once they are nicely charred, remove them from the pot.

Step 2: Add the Spices

Into the same pot, add the cinnamon stick, star anise, cloves, and coriander seeds. Toast these spices for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them, as this can impart a bitter taste.

Step 3: Create the Broth

Return the onion and ginger to the pot. Add the beef or chicken and pour in the stock. Season it with fish sauce and a pinch of salt. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 25 minutes for beef or 15 minutes for chicken.

Step 4: Prepare the Noodles

While the broth is cooking, prepare the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Most require a brief soak in hot water, which can be done while the broth simmers.

Step 5: Release the Pressure

Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes, before performing a quick release for any remaining pressure.

Step 6: Assemble Your Pho

Carefully remove the beef or chicken from the pot. If using beef, slice it thinly against the grain. For chicken, shred the meat with two forks. Strain the broth to remove the solids and return it to the pot for a clean finish.

In a bowl, place a handful of noodles, add slices of meat, and ladle the steaming broth over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and chillies. A dash of Sriracha or hoisin sauce can add an extra pop of flavour, if desired.

Conclusion

With its irresistible aroma and comforting warmth, Instant Pot pho is a delightful dish that can now be enjoyed with ease. This recipe captures the essence of traditional pho while accommodating the busy lifestyles of modern cooks. Whether you’re introducing pho to your family or impressing guests with a homemade Vietnamese delicacy, this simplified version is sure to satisfy cravings and warm hearts. So, gather your ingredients, fire up that Instant Pot, and enjoy a bowl of homemade pho bursting with flavour.