Express Pho Noodle Soup

Wrap the beef in cling film and place in the freezer to chill.

To make the broth, heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion, ginger, garlic, star anise and cinnamon sticks. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion has softened. Add the beef stock, fish sauce and soy sauce. Bring to a simmer then turn the heat down to medium-low and gently simmer for 20 minutes.

In the meantime, cook the noodles according to the packet instructions. Drain and rinse under running water to cool. Divide between four serving bowls and top with raw onion slices.

Slice the beef into very thin slices and place on top of the noodles. Add a generous amount of spring onion to each bowl.

Strain the broth into a clean saucepan and then place back on high heat until just simmering. Ladle the hot broth over the beef. It should cook in the hot soup. Serve with condiments.

– Sambal oelek is a chilli paste found in the Asian aisle of most supermarkets.