spicy oxtail and shrimp pho

Spicy Oxtail and Shrimp Pho: A Bold, Flavor-Packed Vietnamese Soup

Pho is the ultimate comfort food, but when you combine tender oxtail, succulent shrimp, and a spicy, aromatic broth, it becomes a show-stopping dish that warms the soul. This recipe balances rich meaty flavors with fresh herbs, lime, and chili, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.

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Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

For the Broth:

• 2 lbs (900 g) oxtail

• 1 large onion, halved

• 4-inch piece of ginger, halved

• 3 star anise pods

• 3 cloves

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 8 cups beef or chicken stock

• 1 tablespoon fish sauce

• 1 teaspoon sugar

• 1–2 red chilies (adjust for heat)

• Salt, to taste

For the Soup:

• 200 g rice noodles (pho noodles or medium-width rice sticks)

• 12–16 large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 cup bean sprouts

• Fresh herbs: cilantro, Thai basil, mint

• 2 green onions, sliced

• 1 lime, cut into wedges

• Sliced red chilies or chili oil, optional

• Hoisin sauce and Sriracha, for serving

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Step 1: Roast the Aromatics

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

• Place onion and ginger on a baking sheet and roast for 15–20 minutes until slightly charred.

• This adds depth and smoky flavor to your broth.

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Step 2: Brown the Oxtail

• In a large pot, heat 1–2 tablespoons oil over medium-high heat.

• Brown the oxtail pieces on all sides, about 5–7 minutes, for extra richness.

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Step 3: Make the Broth

1. Add the roasted onion and ginger to the pot.

2. Add star anise, cloves, cinnamon stick, chilies, fish sauce, sugar, and 8 cups of stock.

3. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

4. Cover and simmer for 3–4 hours until oxtail is tender and the broth is flavorful.

Tip: Skim off any foam or excess fat for a clear broth.

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Step 4: Prepare the Noodles and Shrimp

• Soak or cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

• About 5 minutes before serving, add shrimp to the simmering broth. Cook until pink and just firm, 3–5 minutes.

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Step 5: Assemble the Pho Bowls

1. Divide noodles among serving bowls.

2. Add oxtail and shrimp on top.

3. Ladle hot broth over the noodles and meat.

4. Top with bean sprouts, fresh herbs, and green onions.

5. Serve with lime wedges, sliced chilies, hoisin sauce, and Sriracha on the side.

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Tips for the Perfect Spicy Oxtail and Shrimp Pho

1. Char aromatics: Roasting onion and ginger adds smoky depth.

2. Don’t overcook shrimp: Add them at the end for tender, juicy shrimp.

3. Adjust spiciness: Use fresh red chilies, chili oil, or Sriracha to taste.

4. Make ahead: Broth can be made a day in advance; flavors deepen overnight.

5. Clear broth: Skim fat and impurities for a light, clean broth appearance.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and complex: Oxtail creates a deeply savory, gelatinous broth.

• Fresh and vibrant: Shrimp and herbs lighten the richness, balancing the dish.

• Customizable heat: Easily adjust spice for family-friendly or fiery bowls.

• Meal-worthy: Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or dinner party centerpiece.

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Serving Suggestion: Serve hot with extra lime wedges and fresh herbs so everyone can customize their pho. Leftovers keep well; just store the broth separately from noodles to avoid sogginess.