"Faux" Pho

I have had Pho once a while ago and remember liking it.  When I saw this recipe on Mary Ellen's Cooking Creations, I knew immediately that I wanted to try it.  I don't know that I ever would have thought to make my own Pho at home.

I really liked this recipe a lot.  As I was making it, I was thinking that Matt wouldn't care for it-he's not a huge fan of cilantro, raw onions, or jalepenos-and that's the toppings.   I was right in that aspect-but it really was just a taste preference for him.  If you love the flavors of lime and cilantro, you will love this soup.  I think it would be great for when you're feeling under the weather.

Thank you Mary Ellen for sharing this fabulous recipe and to A Taste of Home Cooking for hosting another fun Blogger's Choice recipe swap! And as always, I had a really hard time deciding what to make from Mary Ellen's blog, so be sure to be on the lookout for more delicious recipes from her blog!

"Faux" Pho

12 cups beef broth
4 limes (3 for soup, 1 for serving)
14 ounces rice noodles
3 green onions
1/2 bunch cilantro
1 cup basil leaves
3 jalapenos
1 pound beef sirloin

Bring beef broth to a boil in a large stock pot with the juice of 3 of the limes. Let stock boil for 15 minutes, then turn to a simmer for an hour so it reduces a bit for richer flavors.

In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and cook rice noodles according to package directions. Drain noodles.

While noodles are cooking and stock is heating, prep the condiments. Slice green onions on a long diagonal.
Roughly chop cilantro. Slice remaining limes and jalepenos. Rinse basil, dry , and put all condiments on a serving platter.

Season the beef with salt and pepper and grill to medium or medium rare. Slice beef into a thin a slice as possible with a very sharp knife.

When noodles are cooked and drained, divide among six bowls. Ladle hot stock over each bowl of noodles. Allow everyone choose their own condiments to complete their soup.