A deeply comforting, aromatic bowl of healing broth, silky rice noodles, and tender lean beef — Pho is not just food, it’s therapy.
Rooted in Vietnamese tradition, Pho is a meal that brings warmth to the body and peace to the mind. The gently simmered bone broth is rich in collagen, amino acids, and minerals that support gut health, joint function, and emotional balance. Combined with fragrant herbs like basil and cilantro, and soothing warm spices such as cinnamon and star anise, this dish awakens the senses without overwhelming them.
The lean beef provides clean protein to support neurotransmitter production, while the clear broth and fresh herbs make it ideal for those who may feel physically heavy or mentally clouded.
In times of emotional fatigue, a hot bowl of Pho can serve as a grounding ritual — a moment to breathe deeply, feel comforted, and slowly return to yourself.
🕒 Total Time: 40 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 1
🔥 Calories per serving: ~480 kcal
🛒 Ingredients
For the Broth:
- 500ml beef bone broth (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 small onion, halved
- 1 small piece of ginger (about 5 cm), sliced
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 star anise
- 1 tsp fish sauce (optional, for umami)
- Pinch of salt
For the Bowl:
- 100g rice noodles (pho noodles, medium thickness)
- 100g lean beef (sirloin or eye of round), thinly sliced
- 1 handful bean sprouts
- Fresh herbs: Thai basil, cilantro, mint
- Lime wedges
- 1–2 slices red chili (optional)
- Thinly sliced onion or scallions for garnish
🍳 Instructions
1. Prepare the Broth:
- In a pot, lightly char onion and ginger over an open flame or dry pan.
- Add beef broth, cinnamon, star anise, charred onion, and ginger.
- Simmer gently for 25–30 minutes to infuse flavor.
- Season with salt and fish sauce to taste. Strain the broth if desired.
2. Prepare the Noodles & Beef:
- Soak rice noodles in warm water until softened (or cook according to package instructions). Drain.
- Arrange raw beef slices in a serving bowl. The heat from the broth will cook them lightly.
3. Assemble the Bowl:
- Place noodles into the bowl over the beef.
- Pour hot broth directly on top — it will gently cook the meat.
- Top with bean sprouts, herbs, onion slices, and chili if using.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side.
💡 Tips for Mood & Nutrition
- Bone broth is rich in glycine and proline, amino acids that support the gut-brain axis and calm the nervous system.
- Cinnamon and star anise add warmth and anti-inflammatory properties, gently stimulating circulation and reducing internal coldness.
- For a protein boost, add a soft-boiled egg.
- Avoid hoisin or sriracha if you are sensitive to strong flavors — keep it clean and simple to allow your senses to reset.
- Practice mindfulness while eating — focus on the aroma, warmth, and texture as a form of gentle meditation.
🎯 Note:
Pho is ideal for emotional healing: the broth hydrates and restores, the herbs revive, and the warmth soothes. It’s more than a meal — it’s a moment of mindfulness in a bowl.
