Pho Bo (Hanoi Beef Soup)

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Place the vermicelli in a large bowl and cover with cold water. Allow to soak until pliable, about 30 minutes. Drain.

2. Step 2

   Place the stock in a large pan and bring it to a boil. Have either 4 very large or 6 slightly smaller individual soup bowls ready. Put a handful of vermicelli into a strainer that will fit in the pan and dip the strainer into the hot stock. Swirl the vermicelli until tender but still a little chewy, about 20 seconds. Shake the vermicelli dry and place it in a soup bowl. Repeat with the remaining noodles.

3. Step 3

   Divide the beef, sprouts, cilantro, basil and scallions among the bowls. Ladle the hot stock into the bowls and squeeze a lime wedge over each. Serve with the chilies, fish sauce and black pepper on the side.