Imagine a soul-warming dish that transports you straight to the bustling streets of Vietnam, without ever leaving your kitchen! This One Pot Pho Style Beef Meatball Soup is not just a meal—it's a culinary adventure that combines the rich, deep flavors of traditional Vietnamese cuisine with the simplicity of a one-pot wonder. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you're craving something extraordinary, this recipe promises to tantalize your taste buds and impress even the most discerning food lovers.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh herbs (basil, cilantro) for garnish
- Rice noodles (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the meatballs. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef, 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs, and 1 egg. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the mixture is combined, form it into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Set the meatballs aside on a plate.
- In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Next, add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let it burn.
- Pour in the 4 cups of beef broth and add 1 tablespoon of fish sauce. Stir to combine and bring the broth to a gentle simmer.
- Once the broth is simmering, carefully add the meatballs to the pot. Allow them to cook in the broth for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fully cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
- If you are using rice noodles, prepare them according to the package instructions while the meatballs are cooking. Drain and set aside.
- After the meatballs are cooked, taste the broth and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more fish sauce or salt to enhance the flavor.
- To serve, place a portion of rice noodles in each bowl (if using), then ladle the hot soup with meatballs over the noodles.
- Garnish each bowl with fresh herbs such as basil and cilantro for added flavor and freshness.
- Enjoy your One Pot Pho Style Beef Meatball Soup hot, savoring the rich flavors and comforting warmth of this Vietnamese-inspired dish.
Tips
- Meat Mixture Magic: When mixing the meatballs, use a light touch. Overworking the meat can make the meatballs tough, so mix just until ingredients are combined.
- Broth is Boss: For an extra flavor boost, consider using homemade beef broth or adding a small piece of star anise to the simmering liquid.
- Herb Heaven: Fresh herbs are crucial! Don't skimp on the basil and cilantro—they add brightness and authenticity to the dish.
- Noodle Know-How: If using rice noodles, cook them separately and add them to the bowl just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.
- Customize Your Comfort: Feel free to add extra vegetables like sliced carrots or baby bok choy for more nutrition and texture.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: The meatballs and broth can be prepared in advance and reheated, making this a perfect meal prep option.
- Spice It Up: Serve with sriracha or chili oil on the side for those who like an extra kick of heat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 120mg
