Beef pho is a Vietnamese dish that has gained popularity across the world thanks to its delicious taste, hearty ingredients, and filling nature. The dish consists of rice noodles in a flavorful broth, topped with various types of beef, vegetables and herbs. Beef pho has a rich history that dates back to the late 1800s in Northern Vietnam, where it was often sold on the street to commuters and travelers. It has since become a staple dish in many Vietnamese households and is a common sight in restaurants all over the world.One of the most significant advantages of using an Instapot to make your beef pho is the cooking time, which is significantly reduced compared to traditional methods. The pressure cooking feature of the Instapot ensures that the flavors are well infused into the broth, and the meat comes out fork-tender. Additionally, the Instapot’s ability to regulate heat ensures that the broth stays at a constant temperature, which is key in creating a perfect beef pho. This makes it an ideal kitchen appliance for people with busy schedules who still want to enjoy an authentic and delicious beef pho without spending hours cooking.
Making beef pho in an Instapot has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially among people who love Vietnamese cuisine. Apart from the time-saving perks, an Instapot can also produce consistent results, ensuring that each batch of beef pho tastes as good as the last. Moreover, the Instapot’s versatility means you can vary the ingredients used and experiment with different flavors to create your unique version of beef pho. Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced chef, an Instapot is an excellent tool for making the perfect beef pho every time.If you are a fan of beef pho or Vietnamese cuisine, read on to learn how to make the ultimate beef pho in your Instapot in this comprehensive guide. From the ingredients you’ll need to how to go about cooking and storing your pho, we’ve got you covered. Making beef pho in your Instapot is quick, easy, and delivers delicious results every time.
Ingredients
The essential ingredients for beef pho include beef bones, roasted onion, ginger, garlic, star anise, cloves, cinnamon sticks, fish sauce, sugar, and salt. Don’t forget about the noodles! Rice noodles, also called banh pho, are what give this dish its name. Fresh herbs like Thai basil and cilantro, as well as sliced jalapenos and lime wedges, are added to the bowl right before serving.When it comes to finding the ingredients, Asian supermarkets are a great place to start. You can find all the spices, sauces, and noodles, as well as the meats and vegetables you’ll need. Another option is to order online from a store that specializes in Asian cuisine. Just make sure to plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time to find and order the ingredients you need.
If you’re unsure about the quality of the ingredients or have trouble finding any, consider going for pre-packaged soup kits or pho spices that are already mixed and ready to use. You can also buy pre-sliced beef and chicken to save time on preparation. However, if you have the time and inclination, prepare the beef bones yourself and make the soup from scratch for the most authentic pho experience. Don’t worry if you don’t have access to an Instapot, this recipe can be made on the stove with some adjustments, but we will be focused on using the capabilities of the Instapot in the steps to come.If you’re a beef lover but don’t have hours to spend preparing your beef pho in advance, using an Instapot could be the solution. Its ability to cook ingredients under high pressure and in a short amount of time means that you can have a delicious and authentic pho dinner on the table in just a few hours. Plus it’s more energy efficient than cooking on the stove or in the oven. In addition, the Instapot’s keep-warm function will keep your soup at a constant temperature for hours, making it the perfect appliance for dinner parties or large families. An Instapot may be more expensive than traditional cooking methods such as a slow cooker, but many have found it to be a worthwhile investment for the benefits it provides.
Recipe and Cooking Time
To make the perfect beef pho in your Instapot, follow these step-by-step instructions:
1. Preparing the Broth – Add the Marrow Bones and Beef Brisket to the Instapot along with 6 liters of Water.
2. Add the Large Chopped Onion, Garlic, Ginger, Chili Peppers, Star Anise, Fennel Seeds, and Cinnamon Sticks to the Instapot.
3. Secure the Instapot lid and set it on High Pressure for 25 minutes.
4. Once the cooking is complete, release the steam manually and let the broth cool.
5. Skim the fat and other impurities from the top of the broth using a sieve or strainer.
6. Reserve the beef brisket and discard the other items.
7. Place the beef brisket in the fridge to cool before slicing it thinly.
8. Season the broth with fish sauce, salt, and sugar to taste.
9. If needed, you can add more water to the Instapot to dilute the broth.
10. Add the noodles and sliced beef brisket to the Instapot and cook for 2-3 minutes.
11. Divide the cooked noodles and beef brisket among serving bowls.
12. Pour the hot broth over the noodles and sliced beef and top with your preferred garnishes.
When cooking beef pho in an Instapot, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure the best results. It is recommended that you slice the beef brisket only after it has cooled to prevent tearing or crumbling. Additionally, use high-quality beef bones and brisket to achieve the right flavor and texture.
The cooking time for your beef pho may vary depending on your Instapot model and altitude level. Typically, beef pho should be cooked on high-pressure mode for around 25 minutes. Some Instapot models may require additional cooking time, so it’s best to check the instructions for your specific device.
Lastly, after the broth has been cooked and skimmed, it is best to allow it to cool and store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator until it’s time to serve. This will help the flavors develop further and make it easier to remove any residual fat that may rise to the surface. When ready to serve, simply reheat the broth and follow the instructions for adding the noodles and meat for a perfect bowl of beef pho every time.
The best thing about making beef pho in your Instapot is that it’s a one-pot recipe, which means fewer dishes to wash. Additionally, the Instapot is designed to be a time-saving kitchen appliance. It cuts the cooking time for beef pho from hours down to minutes without sacrificing the taste and quality of the broth.
Cooking beef pho in an Instapot also allows you to maintain the perfect temperature and pressure to create a flavorful and aromatic broth. The sealed environment ensures that all the ingredients cook uniformly while preserving the nutrients and flavors – this is especially important for pho since the broth is typically the star of the dish.
Another advantage of using an Instapot is its versatility. It can be used for other foods like stews, soups, and rice, making it an excellent investment for any household.
When serving beef pho, the traditional garnishes include fresh herbs like Thai basil, cilantro, and mint, sliced chili peppers, and bean sprouts. Sliced limes and hoisin sauce are also common accompaniments.
To serve the beef pho, ladle hot broth over the noodles and beef in the individual serving bowls. Add the reserved sliced beef and garnishes on top. The heat from the broth will cook the herbs and bean sprouts slightly, releasing their flavors and adding texture to the dish. Squeeze the lime juice over the pho and add hoisin sauce according to your taste.
If there are any leftovers, let the broth cool before storing it in airtight containers in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to five days. To reheat, simply warm the broth in a pot on the stove, and add fresh noodles and slices of beef to create a quick and satisfying meal.When storing beef pho, it’s important to keep the liquid separate from the solid ingredients to prevent the noodles and meat from becoming mushy. It is also essential to cool the broth completely before storing it, as hot broth in a sealed container can cause bacterial growth.
While cooking beef pho in an Instapot may not be as traditional as using a large stockpot over a low flame, it provides a viable alternative for those with limited time and resources. When done correctly, using an Instapot can yield a flavorful and satisfying bowl of beef pho that rivals any restaurant version. So, fire up your Instapot and give this recipe a try!
To sum it up, making beef pho in an Instapot is an excellent method for those looking for a quick and easy way to enjoy a piping hot bowl of pho. The technique helps to maintain the fragrant and savory broth’s flavor while also allowing for flexibility with the addition of different ingredients.
To make the perfect beef pho dish, it’s crucial to use high-quality ingredients such as beef bones, brisket, and a variety of herbs and spices, as well as following the instructions for cooking times and serving. The result is a deliciously nourishing and hearty meal that can be enjoyed any time of year.
So gather your ingredients, set your Instapot, and get ready to indulge in one of the most celebrated soups the world has to offer -whether cooking for a group, a family, or even just for yourself.
No need to spend hours tending the stove to create your favorite Vietnamese dish – the Instapot’s pressure cooking function will do the work for you. Not only is cooking beef pho in an Instapot convenient and efficient, but it also helps to create a deep, rich broth that mimics the long-simmering process of traditional pho.
Whether you’re a busy mom, a novice home cook, or a seasoned chef, the Instapot takes the guesswork out of preparing beef pho. You’re guaranteed to have a delicious result with less hassle, time, and mess. With endless possible combinations of noodles, proteins, and vegetables, beef pho is a versatile meal with endless possibilities.
We hope this guide has helped you get started with making the best beef pho dish in your Instapot. If you try out our recipe, feel free to share your results on social media or with friends and family. Stay tuned for more delicious recipes and cooking tips!

Hi, I’m Sang Kim, and I’m passionate about Vietnamese cooking, especially pho. As a seasoned home cook, I’ve spent years perfecting my skills in the kitchen and honing my expertise in Vietnamese cuisine. Through this blog, I hope to share my love of pho and other Vietnamese dishes, offering tips and guidance to fellow foodies.