Faux Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup, the easy way)

INGREDIENTS:

1/2 Lbs Protein (Chicken/Tofu/Beef Steak/Shrimp)
1 Package Rice Noodles (Medium Thickness)
2 Cans Beef Broth
1/2 Lbs You-Choose Veggies (Broccoli/Carrots/Baby Corn/Bok Choy/Snap Peas)
1 White Onion
1 Clove Garlic
1 Bushel Green Onions
1 Package Fresh Basil
1 Bushel Fresh Cilantro
1 Lime
1/4 Cup Bean Sprouts
1 Fresh Jalapeno
2 Tbsp Fish Sauce
Spices: Cinnamon, Clove, Coriander, Star Anise, Fennel, Salt
Condiments: Hoisin Sauce and Sriracha Hot Sauce


DIRECTIONS:

Finely slice white onion. Chop garlic.

In a large pot, add broth, fish sauce, garlic, white onion and spices to taste (don't be shy!) Bring to a boil and simmer 15 minutes on med-high.

Skim top of broth to remove any clumping of fat which may have surfaced.

Add raw protein and veggies (beef: finely sliced; chicken or tofu: cut bite-sized; shrimp: de-shelled). Continue on med-boil until protein is cooked. 

Prepare rice noodles as directed on package.

Chop basil and cilantro (removing stems), slice jalapenos and green onion.

Drain cooked noodles and plate into large bowls, filling bowl 1/4 full.

Distribute protein and veggies into bowls and strain remaining broth to remove spice chunks, then pour broth into bowls.

Squeeze fresh lime into each bowl and stir in Hoisin and Sriracha sauces to taste.

Garnish with basil, cilantro, jalapeno and bean sprouts. Get out your chop sticks and enjoy!