Aromatic Vegan Pho Recipe – A Flavorful Plant-Based Take on Vietnamese Soup

This aromatic vegan pho is a comforting, plant-based version of the classic Vietnamese soup that will warm you up from the inside out. With a rich, deeply flavored broth infused with spices like star anise, cinnamon, and cloves, this vegan pho is bursting with complex flavors. Served with fresh herbs, rice noodles, and an array of colorful toppings, it’s a nourishing, satisfying meal that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the flavors of traditional pho in a vegan-friendly way!

Key Information

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Number of Servings: 4

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 4g

Note: Nutritional values may vary slightly based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Ingredients List

Broth:

• 1 large onion, halved
• 1 large knob of ginger (about 2 inches), sliced
• 4–5 cloves garlic, smashed
• 2 whole star anise
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 3–4 whole cloves
• 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp sugar (or maple syrup for a natural sweetener)
• Salt, to taste

Noodles & Toppings:

• 200g rice noodles (about 7 ounces)
• 1 block tofu, sliced and pan-fried (optional)
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves (Thai basil if available)
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• 1 jalapeño or chili pepper, thinly sliced (optional for spice)
• Hoison sauce and Sriracha for serving (optional)

Detailed Method of Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

1. Char the Onion and Ginger: Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Place the onion halves (cut-side down) and ginger slices in the pot and allow them to char for about 5–7 minutes, until they develop a nice, dark color. This step adds depth to the broth.
2. Add Aromatic Spices: Add the garlic, star anise, cinnamon stick, and cloves to the pot. Toast the spices for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
3. Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the vegetable broth, soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option), and sugar. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Simmer the Broth: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the broth simmer for at least 30–40 minutes. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or soy sauce if needed.

Step 2: Prepare the Noodles

1. Cook the Rice Noodles: While the broth simmers, cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse them under cold water to prevent sticking, then set them aside.

Step 3: Prepare Toppings

1. Prep the Fresh Herbs and Vegetables: Wash and prepare the bean sprouts, cilantro, basil, mint, lime wedges, and sliced chili pepper. Arrange them on a platter for easy assembly.
2. Optional Tofu: If desired, slice the tofu into thin strips and pan-fry until golden brown on each side. This adds a protein boost to your pho.

Step 4: Assemble the Pho

1. Strain the Broth: Use a fine-mesh strainer to strain the broth, discarding the solids (onion, ginger, and spices).
2. Assemble Bowls: Divide the cooked rice noodles among serving bowls. Pour the hot broth over the noodles until they are fully submerged.
3. Add Toppings: Let each person add their own toppings to taste. Popular additions include bean sprouts, fresh herbs (cilantro, basil, and mint), lime wedges, and sliced chili for heat.
4. Serve with Sauces: Offer hoisin sauce and Sriracha on the side for extra flavor.

Tips for Culinary Success

• Use Quality Spices: Whole spices (like star anise and cinnamon sticks) are key to the authentic flavor of pho. Avoid powdered spices as they won’t provide the same depth.
• Don’t Skip the Charred Aromatics: Charring the onion and ginger before adding them to the broth creates a smoky, slightly sweet undertone that’s essential to pho.
• Customize Toppings: While traditional pho toppings include herbs and bean sprouts, feel free to add any veggies you like. Shredded carrots, thinly sliced mushrooms, or baby bok choy would all be delicious.
• Make It Ahead: The broth’s flavor improves over time, so feel free to make it a day in advance. Reheat before serving and assemble with fresh toppings.
• Add Umami: If you’re missing the savory depth of a traditional meat-based pho, add a splash of mushroom soy sauce or a few dried shiitake mushrooms to the broth for an extra layer of umami.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use other noodles besides rice noodles?
A: Yes, although rice noodles are traditional, you can substitute with other noodles like soba or udon if preferred. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor profile may differ slightly.

Q: Can I make the broth in an Instant Pot?
A: Absolutely! Simply add all the broth ingredients to your Instant Pot, set it to “Pressure Cook” on high for 15 minutes, then let it naturally release. Strain and use as directed.

Q: Is this pho gluten-free?
A: To make it gluten-free, ensure that you use gluten-free tamari instead of regular soy sauce, as soy sauce contains gluten. Rice noodles are naturally gluten-free.

Q: Can I add mushrooms or other vegetables to the broth?
A: Yes! Adding mushrooms, particularly shiitake, enhances the umami flavor. Other vegetables like carrots or daikon radish can also add sweetness and depth to the broth.

Q: Can I freeze the broth?
A: Yes, you can make the broth ahead and freeze it in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Just defrost, reheat, and add fresh noodles and toppings when ready to serve.

This aromatic vegan pho is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The fragrant spices, fresh herbs, and flavorful broth come together to create a nourishing and soul-warming dish that’s perfect for any time of year. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly night or just craving a taste of Vietnam, this plant-based pho will bring comfort and satisfaction with every slurp. Gather your favorite toppings and make this vegan pho your own!