Phở Cuốn
Vietnamese Beef Rice Noodle Rolls
Phở Cuốn are delicate, fresh rice noodle rolls filled with tender beef and aromatic herbs, served with a savory dipping sauce. This dish offers a lighter, refreshing take on traditional pho, perfect for a summer meal or appetizer.
🧂 Ingredients
- 12 Fresh rice noodle sheets (bánh phở tươi)(Look for wide, fresh sheets specifically for rolling. If unavailable, you can steam your own or use large, fresh rice paper wrappers, softened according to package directions.)
- 300 g Beef sirloin or flank steak(Choose a lean cut. Partially freezing the beef will make it easier to slice thinly.)
- 2 cups Fresh herbs(A mix of fresh herbs like mint, cilantro, Thai basil, and perilla leaves (tía tô) is ideal. Wash and thoroughly dry them.)
- 1 head Lettuce leaves(Butter lettuce or romaine hearts work well. Wash and dry the leaves.)
- 2 cloves Garlic(Minced, for stir-frying the beef.)
- 1 tbsp Fish sauce(For seasoning the beef.)
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper(Freshly ground, for seasoning the beef.)
- 1 tbsp Vegetable oil(For stir-frying the beef.)
- for dipping Nuoc cham(Homemade or store-bought. A classic dipping sauce made with fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, water, garlic, and chili.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the beef: Slice the beef very thinly against the grain. If the beef is partially frozen, this will be much easier. In a bowl, toss the beef slices with minced garlic, fish sauce, and black pepper. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare other ingredients.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 2
Cook the beef: Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat until shimmering. Add the marinated beef in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Stir-fry quickly for 1-2 minutes until just browned and cooked through. The beef should still be slightly pink inside for tenderness. Remove from heat immediately and set aside.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Prepare the fillings: Wash and thoroughly dry all fresh herbs and lettuce leaves. Separate the lettuce leaves and set aside. Ensure herbs are dry to prevent sogginess in the rolls.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 4
Assemble the rolls: Lay a fresh rice noodle sheet flat on a clean work surface. Place a lettuce leaf on top, followed by a small cluster of mixed herbs and a portion of the cooked beef. Carefully roll up the noodle sheet, tucking in the sides if possible, similar to making a spring roll. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 5
Serve: Arrange the Phở Cuốn on a platter. Serve immediately with nuoc cham for dipping. The rolls are best enjoyed fresh.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using fresh, wide rice noodle sheets (bánh phở tươi) is key for the authentic texture. If they are too thick, you can gently press them thinner.
- ✓Do not overcook the beef; it should remain tender and slightly pink inside for the best flavor and texture.
- ✓Ensure all herbs and lettuce are very dry before rolling to prevent the noodle sheets from becoming soggy and tearing.
- ✓For a quicker version, you can use pre-cooked shredded chicken or firm tofu (marinated and pan-fried) instead of beef.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Chicken Phở Cuốn: Use thinly sliced chicken breast or thigh, marinated and stir-fried similarly to the beef.
- Vegetarian Phở Cuốn: Use marinated and pan-fried firm tofu or tempeh, or simply fill with an abundance of fresh herbs and vegetables.