Croatian-style Pho

Ingredients

While the original Vietnamese Pho typically uses rice noodles and Asian spices, this Croatian-style Pho incorporates Croatian flavors and ingredients. The Croatian version may include local herbs, such as rosemary and thyme, and traditional Croatian spices like paprika. Additionally, instead of rice noodles, this adaptation uses homemade pasta, giving the dish a unique twist. We alse have the original recipe for Pho, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) beef bones 500g (1.1 lb) beef bones
• 1 onion, halved 1 onion, halved
• 2 cloves of garlic, crushed 2 cloves of garlic, crushed
• 1 carrot, chopped 1 carrot, chopped
• 1 celery stalk, chopped 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 1 bay leaf 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cinnamon stick 1 cinnamon stick
• 4 cups (950ml) beef broth 4 cups (950ml) beef broth
• 200g (7 oz) beef sirloin, thinly sliced 200g (7 oz) beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• 200g (7 oz) homemade pasta 200g (7 oz) homemade pasta
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Fresh lime wedges, for serving Fresh lime wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat: 12g (Saturated Fat: 4g)
• Carbohydrates: 30g (Sugars: 3g)
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, add the beef bones, onion, garlic, carrot, celery, bay leaf, paprika, rosemary, thyme, and cinnamon stick.
2. 2.
   Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, skimming off any impurities that rise to the surface.
3. 3.
   Remove the beef bones and strain the broth into a clean pot. Discard the solids.
4. 4.
   Bring the broth back to a simmer and add the sliced beef sirloin. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the beef is cooked to your desired doneness.
5. 5.
   In a separate pot, cook the homemade pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. 6.
   Season the broth with salt and pepper to taste.
7. 7.
   To serve, divide the cooked pasta among serving bowls. Ladle the hot broth and beef over the pasta.
8. 8.
   Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef bones — Roasting the bones before adding them to the pot will enhance the flavor of the broth.
• Homemade pasta — If you prefer a thinner broth, cook the pasta separately and add it to each bowl before ladling the broth over it.
• Fresh cilantro — Add the cilantro just before serving to preserve its vibrant flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a pinch of Croatian chili flakes to the broth.
• Customize your Croatian-style Pho by adding your favorite vegetables, such as sliced bell peppers or mushrooms.
• If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of paprika and spices used.
• To save time, you can use store-bought beef broth instead of making it from scratch.
• Leftover Croatian-style Pho can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, allowing the flavors to meld even further.

Serving advice

Serve the Croatian-style Pho hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and accompanied by lime wedges. Squeeze the lime juice into the soup just before eating to add a tangy kick.

Presentation advice

Present the Croatian-style Pho in individual bowls, with the pasta and beef beautifully arranged on top of the flavorful broth. Sprinkle some fresh cilantro over the dish for an added pop of color.