Faux Pho

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We love Pho, and I never had attempted to make it because making the broth had always intimidated me.  This recipe makes the broth have depth by the ginger and other spices, and is cooked relatively quick.  This attempt was my first, I plan on making the REAL attempt someday!  Enjoy!

Faux Pho

• 1 tspn. vegetable oil
• 1/2 small onion
• 4 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 3x1" piece peeled ginger
• 2 1/2 cups low salt beef broth
• 2 whole star anise
• 1 4" cinnamon stick
• 2 cups mixed mushrooms (oyster, stemmed shiitake)
• 2 scallions, thinly sliced
• kosher salt
• 2 packages instant ramen, noodles only
• 1 1/4-1/2 lb. piece beef eye round, sliced crosswise 1/8in thick
• Garnish: bean sprouts, basil leaves, jalapeno slices, cilantro, limes, hoisin sauce, hot sauce

-Heat oil in a medium pot over medium heat.  Add onion, cut side down, garlic and ginger.  Cook, stirring occasionally until the garlic is golden, 3-4 minutes.  Add 1 1/2 cups water, broth, star anise and cinnamon; bring to a boil.  Reduce heat; simmer until flavors meld, 7-8 minutes.  

-Add mushrooms; simmer 2 minutes.  Add scallion.  Season with salt.

-Meanwhile, boil ramen until tender but still firm to bite.  Drain; divide among large bowls. Add beef slices to soup; simmer until just cooked through, about 20 seconds.  Using tongs, transfer beef to bowls.

-Discard ginger, garlic, star anise, and cinnamon.  Ladle broth into bowls.  Garnish with bean sprouts, basil, jalapeno and cilantro.  Add hoisin sauce and hot sauce to taste.