Bosnian-Style Pho

Ingredients

While the original Vietnamese Pho typically features a delicate balance of herbs and spices, Bosnian-Style Pho incorporates heartier ingredients like beef, potatoes, and root vegetables. This adaptation also includes the use of Bosnian spices such as paprika and cumin, which add a unique flavor profile to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Pho, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) beef, thinly sliced 500g (1.1 lb) beef, thinly sliced
• 2 medium onions, thinly sliced 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, julienned 2 carrots, julienned
• 2 potatoes, diced 2 potatoes, diced
• 1 parsnip, sliced 1 parsnip, sliced
• 1 celery root, diced 1 celery root, diced
• 1 tablespoon paprika 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 cinnamon stick 1 cinnamon stick
• 4 cups (950ml) beef broth 4 cups (950ml) beef broth
• 4 cups (950ml) water 4 cups (950ml) water
• 200g (7 oz) rice noodles 200g (7 oz) rice noodles
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and minced garlic, and sauté until golden brown.
2. 2.
   Add the thinly sliced beef to the pot and cook until browned.
3. 3.
   Stir in the paprika, cumin, and cinnamon stick, and cook for another minute to release the flavors.
4. 4.
   Add the carrots, potatoes, parsnip, and celery root to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and water, and season with salt and pepper.
5. 5.
   Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
6. 6.
   While the soup is simmering, cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
7. 7.
   Once the soup is ready, remove the cinnamon stick and adjust the seasoning if needed.
8. 8.
   To serve, divide the cooked rice noodles among bowls and ladle the hot Bosnian-Style Pho over them. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef — For a more tender result, choose cuts like sirloin or tenderloin and slice them thinly against the grain.
• Rice noodles — Be careful not to overcook the rice noodles, as they can become mushy. Follow the package instructions and rinse them with cold water after cooking to prevent sticking.

Tips & Tricks

• To enhance the flavor, you can add a splash of Bosnian red wine to the soup while simmering.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, sprinkle some chili flakes or add a few drops of hot sauce to your bowl of Bosnian-Style Pho.
• Feel free to customize the vegetable selection based on seasonal availability or personal preference.
• For a richer broth, you can simmer beef bones along with the vegetables and strain the broth before serving.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Serving advice

Serve the Bosnian-Style Pho piping hot in individual bowls, allowing each person to garnish their own bowl with fresh parsley. Accompany the soup with warm crusty bread or Bosnian somun bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

To elevate the presentation of Bosnian-Style Pho, arrange the thinly sliced beef, colorful vegetables, and rice noodles in an organized manner in each bowl. Sprinkle the chopped parsley on top for a pop of freshness and color.