Making traditional beef pho can be an all-day affair, with the broth bubbling away for 3–6 hours. This instant pot version takes an hour and a half (including pressure-release time), but it doesn’t sacrifice flavor thanks to toasted spices and browned onions and ginger that get simmered along with beef bones and brisket. Using a variety of bones as well as brisket is the secret to umami-rich broth. While you’re waiting for the broth to finish cooking, prep all your garnishes and noodles so everything will come together quickly at the end. Pour the hot broth over your assembled bowls and watch your beef slices cook on the spot.
Cook’s Notes: Yellow rock sugar can be found in specialty markets and online. It’s a honey-hued sugar that is mildly sweet and rounds out the flavors in pho broth. Break down into large pieces with a mallet to use. It is used in Asian drinks, desserts, and soups.
